AkzoNobel CEO expected to return from illness end of 2012

Ton Buchner, CEO of Dutch paint, coatings and chemicals company AkzoNobel, will return to work around the end of 2012 after having taken temporary absence due to fatigue, the Dutch company announced on Wednesday. One month ago, AkzoNobel said Buchner would be taking a leave of absence as a result of his medical condition. "We are pleased to report that the current treatment is effective and progress is being made," said Karel Vuursteen, chairman of the supervisory board, in a press release. "However, it is important that the full cycle of treatment is completed and a premature commencement of activities is avoided." CFO Keith Nichols will continue to be the first point of contact and coordinator for the executive committee, while Antony Burgmans, member of the supervisory board, will remain on hand to offer advice and support to Keith and the executive committee. The Amsterdam stock exchange AEX reacted positively to the announcement, being one of the top climbers of the day at 5:00 p.m. local time (1600 GMT), moving up 3.83 percent to 44.65.