LONDON, Jan 19 (Reuters) - The board of Swiss speciality chemicals maker Clariant (CLN.S) , opens new tab has proposed adding BP (BP.L) , opens new tab Chair Albert Manifold to its ranks at its annual general meeting on April 1, Clariant said on Monday.

The board also proposed the re-election of Chair Ben van Beurden, former CEO of Shell (SHEL.L) , opens new tab.

Sign up here.

Clariant, whose chemicals are used in smartphone and electric vehicle production, is reducing spending through job cuts, production facility closures and procurement reductions to bolster its margins as it waits for a meaningful rebound in demand.

The Swiss firm has rejected allegations by BP Europe and an ExxonMobil (XOM.N) , opens new tab subsidiary, which are seeking damages for breaching competition law in the ethylene purchasing market.

https://www.reuters.com/business/clariant-board-wants-add-bp-chair-manifold-its-ranks-2026-01-19/