The long serving MD has been planning his retirement for some time, and, says the company, the timing of his departure is entirely unrelated to the 58% fall in profits announced earlier this month.
The company also announced an average organic sales growth of 3.5% across all businesses.

Henkel said Mr Walker had decided to retire in order to spend more time with his family, travelling and in a few non-exec roles with British-based companies.

He had been with Henkel for 22 years during which time their British and Irish arm has expanded to have a turnover of more than £100m led by brands including UniBond, Loctite, Solvite, Sellotape and Nitromors.

A company statement said Mr Walker has provided much of the foundation for the firm's UK growth as well as being a keen advocate of efficient manufacturing through his work to expand Henkel's site in Winsford, Cheshire.

Edu Hartog, a Dutchman, who has worked in a number of roles for Henkel's professional and DIY products in Germany and also for Benelux for more than a decade will replace Mr Walker.