Our People
AkzoNobel's International® brand began with Max and Albert Holzapfel, and Charles Petrie. Their legacy for quality coatings lives on in the people that make the company what it is today.
The Founders
Max and Albert Holzapfel
In 1881 Max, Albert and Charles started in a shipyard shed in England. First as hand-mixed paint, but soon evolving to iron tanks and machinery.
Their ambitions for superior products pushed them to pursue and persuade ship owners of their services, growing their UK base into the our global International® brand.
A Day in the Life
Pursuing excellence in coating options requires dedication in all aspects, from initial mixtures in the lab to on-site testing and feedback.
Find out what it’s like to be part of AkzoNobel’s innovative teams of experts.
People Behind the Paint
Like our initial founders, the International employees today strive to push boundaries in all areas of coating innovation.
