Looking Back to Move Forward
In September 2026, our founder celebrates 40 years in the industrial sector- a journey marked by profound changes in technology, markets, and, most importantly, his understanding of what industry truly means. What began as a world of predictability and efficiency has evolved into one defined by complexity, resilience, and a growing focus on people.
Foundations: The 1980s and 1990s
His career started with a traditional path- apprenticeship, university, and clearly defined roles. Industry was locally rooted, quality was measurable, and success was predictable. Plastics were seen as the material of the future: lightweight, versatile, and innovation-driven. He quickly learned that understanding materials- both technically and economically – can transform markets. Meanwhile, global events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall and the rise of globalization gave industry a new geopolitical dimension.
The 2000s: Globalization and Disruption
Transitioning into international business development, his perspective shifted from local to global. Experiences in Japan taught him humility, patience, and cultural depth, while working with high-performance polymers showed that true innovation is precise, not loud. However, this era also brought challenges: events like 9/11 and the financial crisis exposed the fragility of growth and the vulnerability of increasingly rapid industrial processes.
The 2010s: From Products to Solutions
The industry began to reinvent itself through electromobility, sustainability, and digitalization. His role evolved from sales to market development, from individual contributor to global team leader, and from product-focused to systems thinking. Leadership became less about control and more about providing direction amid uncertainty.
2020 to Today: Disruption as the New Normal
Recent years have been defined by continuous disruption- pandemics, supply chain crises, geopolitical tensions, and energy challenges. What was once exceptional has become routine. He realized that strategies fail without relationships, and that purpose is essential for resilience.
The Turning Point: Human-Centered Leadership
The decision to become a Co-Active® Coach – ICF Accredited Coach Training Program (ATCP) – was not a departure from industry, but a natural progression. He has learned that markets respond to people, organizations reflect their leadership, and future-readiness is achieved where performance and humanity are not in conflict. Today, he work with – not just – leaders to shape both growth and culture – never one at the expense of the other.
Looking Ahead: Our Generation’s Responsibility
He says: After four decades, I believe the next transformation will not be technological, but cultural. Our task is to create spaces for learning, dialogue, and leadership that connects. For me, industry has never been just a workplace – it is a mirror of society. Perhaps the most important phase begins now.
“I have learned to shape materials. Today, it is about empowering people to shape the future.”