SQM’s board of directors accepted the resignation of CEO Patricio de Solminihac Tampier on July 25. The resignation will become effective Dec. 31, 2018. He cited personal reasons for the departure. He has been with the company over 30 years, having served as CEO for the past three years. Previously, he has been vice president of business development, board vice chairman, and COO.
“When Patricio de Solminihac began his career as an executive at SQM in 1988, the company had assets totaling approximately US$152 million; today, SQM has assets of over US$4.3 billion,” said Alberto Salas, SQM chairman. “During all of these years, Patricio has been a key part of an executive team and board that has generated significant value for its shareholders, employees, local communities, and the country in general. It is difficult to summarize in a few words the achievements of Patricio. We regret his resignation, and appreciate his dedication and commitment over the past years”.
Under SQM’s succession plan and upon de Solminhac’s recommendation, Ricardo Ramos Rodriguez, the current CFO and vice president of corporate services, will be appointed CEO on Jan. 1, 2019. He has over 29 years with SQM.