Overview

DSM values a corporate governance structure that takes good care of the organization and all its stakeholders. We want to be a company that is trusted and respected by our stakeholders. We have the necessary systems, independent controls and supervision in place, but we regard management integrity as the most crucial element of all.

The main characteristic of DSM’s corporate governance structure is the two-tier system, typical of many companies headquartered in the Netherlands. The Managing Board manages and represents the company. The Supervisory Board, a separate body only accountable to the General Meeting of Shareholders, supervises the policy of the Managing Board and the general course of the company's affairs. Additionally, it assists the Managing Board with advice.

This structure serves the interests of our shareholders well. The principal platform for them to discuss issues with the Supervisory Board and the Managing Board is the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders.

DSM’s organizational structure is built around business groups. DSM cherishes decentralized decision making inside the company, but we do have central controls on, among other things, treasury, investment decisions and enforcements regarding Triple P elements like health, safety and environment. Final management responsibility resides within the Managing Board as a whole. Business Groups periodically have a meeting to discuss the major issues in the business with the one or two members of the Managing Board who in particular oversee the activity concerned. Business Groups undertake their own risk assessment.