dsm-firmenich Appoints Nikeisha van Sleeuwen as Chief Human Resources Officer

dsm-firmenich, a global innovator in nutrition, health, and beauty, has announced the appointment of Nikeisha van Sleeuwen as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), effective April 1, 2026. Van Sleeuwen will report directly to CEO Dimitri de Vreeze and join the company’s Executive Committee.

She succeeds Mieke Van de Capelle, who is retiring after a ten-year tenure marked by the successful merger and integration of DSM and Firmenich.

Extensive Global HR Leadership Experience

Van Sleeuwen currently serves as Senior Vice President of Talent & Culture and Global Rewards at dsm-firmenich. Her promotion follows a 20-year career within the company, during which she held several high-level leadership roles across the United States and Europe.

Previously, as SVP HR for the Animal Nutrition & Health business unit, she was instrumental in driving organisational performance and large-scale transformation. A Jamaican-American national, Van Sleeuwen holds academic credentials from Ramapo College of New Jersey and Cornell ILR. Her background in fostering inclusive, high-performing global teams is expected to be a central pillar of her leadership as CHRO.

Strategic Continuity and Succession Planning

The appointment highlights dsm-firmenich’s focus on robust internal succession planning. CEO Dimitri de Vreeze noted that Van Sleeuwen’s ability to drive employee engagement and shape talent growth strategies makes her the ideal candidate to lead the HR function into the company's next phase.

“Thanks to Mieke’s strong focus on succession planning, we are able to appoint such an outstanding internal successor,” de Vreeze commented, emphasising the importance of consistency as the organisation continues to evolve post-merger.

Legacy of Transformation

Outgoing CHRO Mieke Van de Capelle leaves behind a restructured HR organisation that managed one of the most significant integrations in the nutrition and beauty industry. During her decade of service, the company reported measurable progress in employee engagement and capability building.

Van de Capelle will remain in her current role until March 31, 2026, to ensure a seamless transition of responsibilities. Following her retirement, the Executive Committee will look to Van Sleeuwen to build upon this foundation, particularly in the areas of global rewards, cultural integration, and talent retention in a competitive international market.