€7.4–7.8bnBASF’s raised 2026 EBITDA before special items range
8,600Fewer BASF roles since the start of 2024
4US plants The Fenix Group’s new CTO will bring together
Deals & Buyers
BASF raises its outlook and talks discipline on Evonik
Q3 EBITDA before special items rose 15% to €1.6bn. Kamieth called an Evonik deal logical, but said BASF won’t pay an excessive price.
Read the full story →Why it matters: a long, uncertain timeline means slower decisions at two of chemicals’ biggest R&D software buyers.
People & R&D
The Fenix Group names Brian Turner CTO
The specialty coatings maker wants one technical lead to bring R&D together across its four US plants and seven brands.
Read the full story →Why it matters: when a multi-brand formulator centralises R&D, formulation data tools usually come next.
Talent Insight
Follow the R&D budget holders
- Big chemical buyers are in cost-cutting mode. Account leads who can put a euro figure on the savings will close more deals than those leading with features.
- New CTOs and R&D heads at mid-market formulators are strong buying signals. BD teams that track these moves get in before the tool review starts.
- Restructuring at the majors keeps releasing experienced formulation and R&D digital people. It is a good time to hire for pre-sales and product.
Building a team in Materials Science & Cheminformatics?
Anna Rabello specialises in Materials Science & Cheminformatics hiring at QP Group. Talk to Anna about the market, salaries or a search.
Anna RabelloBusiness Consultant · Life Science Software