The Oldenburg-based BÜFA Group has successfully completed the planned change in leadership. Following a transition phase, Dr. Moritz Fichtmüller has been responsible for the group's business as CEO since March 1, 2026.
Felix Thalmann, who has played a key role in shaping BÜFA's development for more than a decade, is retiring from active professional life as part of the planned succession process. “Today, BÜFA is strategically well positioned, has a broad international presence, and is represented in many segments with innovative solutions and excellent service,” explains Felix Thalmann. “Dr. Moritz Fichtmüller is a proven industry expert with a clear eye for markets, technologies, and people. I wish him every success in his new role and am convinced that he will continue to develop the group of companies with great vigor.”
During his tenure, Felix Thalmann has guided BÜFA through a series of profound challenges while at the same time setting decisive impulses for the future. This was a highly dynamic period, marked by pandemic-related market shifts, geopolitical upheavals, developments in the energy markets, and supply chain bottlenecks. BÜFA responded with consistent diversification, the expansion of international markets, and the strengthening of resilient supply chains. At the same time, innovation and sustainability were specifically promoted – among other things through investments in research and development, the expansion of start-up cooperations, and the transformation to resource-efficient and circular processes. Digitalization was also systematically strengthened, for example through data-based control of production and supply chains, as well as Germany's first online chemical store.
Dr. Moritz Fichtmüller, an internationally experienced industry insider, is taking over the leadership of the group. The doctor of physics previously held senior positions in the chemical industry and brings with him extensive expertise, particularly in the areas of strategy, international market development, and operations. “I am very much looking forward to actively shaping the future of BÜFA together with a strong management team and dedicated employees,” emphasizes Fichtmüller. “Our aim is to combine economic stability with innovative zeitgeist and to develop our group of companies in a forward-looking manner.” In his new role, Fichtmüller is focusing on continuity in the strategic orientation and, at the same time, on the targeted further development of the group of companies. The focus is on expanding international activities, strengthening digital competencies, and consistently deepening sustainable business models. In addition, defined growth areas—from specialty chemicals to applications in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and health—are to be further developed. “We are in a time of profound change and economic challenges,” says Dr. Moritz Fichtmüller. “That is precisely why it is important to actively shape change – with courage, clarity, and a shared understanding of our goals and values. Continuity and change are not contradictory, but rather mutually dependent. What makes us particularly strong is our team: different perspectives increase the quality of our decisions and at the same time strengthen our identification with our path. Together, we have it in our hands to successfully advance the group of companies.”
