International enzyme technology firm Novozymes is refueling its management team.

Novozymes, which operates its North American headquarters in Franklinton, will have a new CEO as of April 1. Peder Holk Nielsen will succeed long-time CEO Steen Riisgaard as of April 1, the company announced Monday.

Novozymes develops enzymes for use in biofuels as well as some 30 other industries. 

Nielsen is currently executive vice president and head of Novozyme’s enzyme business.

Riisgaard, who has worked at Novozymes for 33 years, has served as CEO over the last 12 years.

Also Monday, Novozymes reported a 7 percent increase in sales revenue for 2012 from 2011 and net profits grew by 10 percent.

The company forecast growth of between 5 and 8 percent in 2013.

“I am pleased to announce that Peder Holk Nielsen will succeed Steen Riisgaard as President and Chief Executive Officer,” says Henrik Gürtler, Novozymes’ board chairman. “Peder Holk Nielsen’s ability to couple market insight and research capabilities is key to deliver innovation and to continue our growth strategy. He was a clear first choice in our international search process. I thank Steen Riisgaard for his 12 years of successful leadership in building the company, and I am sure that Peder Holk Nielsen will ensure the continued expansion of our position as world leader in bioinnovation.”

Nielsen, 56, worked at Novo Industri/Novo Nordisk before joining Novozymes. He holds multiple degrees in chemical engineering and business management.

Novo Nordisk operates a major manufacturing facility in Johnston County.

“I look forward to leading Novozymes and our 6,000 fantastic colleagues,” Nielsen said in the announcement. “With our sustainable solutions and close customer relationships, we have a very strong position for expanding our business, and I am convinced we will deliver on our long-term growth targets in the coming years. I am happy that all EVPs in the current executive management will continue in the new leadership team”.

Novozymes also said Andrew Fordyce, would become executive vice president of business operations as of April 1.