Germany: ThyssenKrupp has decided to retain Martina Merz as its chief executive officer (CEO) for a three year term from 1 April 2020. She was originally delegated to the position for a year. As part of the transition she will resign from the supervisory board.

The group has also decided to appoint Klaus Keysberg as its chief financial officer (CFO) following the resignation of Johannes Dietsch. Keysberg, who holds a PhD in business administration, will remain responsible for the materials businesses in addition to his new role as CFO. Plant Technology will in future be the responsibility of Martina Merz.

With these personnel changes the executive board of ThyssenKrupp now consists of only three members. In addition to Martina Merz as CEO and Klaus Keysberg as CFO, Oliver Burkhard will continue in his role as Chief Human Resources Officer and Labor Director.

North Korea: Local press says that the Sangwon Cement Complex in North Hwanghae Province has reported an upsurge in production, apparently making a record 10,000t/month of cement, its highest production level ever.

Chief engineer Yun Song Chol was quoted as saying that this had been made possible by ‘prioritising science and technology’ and ensuring the operation of equipment ‘at full capacity in accordance with the completion of modernisation at the end of 2019.’ Following the works, the line was reportedly commissioned in just a week.

Brazil: Germany-based Aumund subsidiary Aumund Brazil has appointed Paulo Lima its chief executive officer (CEO). Lima brings many years’ mechanical engineering experience, specialising in conveying technology in cement and other industries. He previously worked for Aumund Brazil in leading sales positions between 1996 and 2000 and from 2004 to 2008.

Ireland: Ecocem Ireland has appointed Susan McGarry as its managing director. Previously she held a variety of roles with the company including the positions of European Sustainability Manager, Environmental Manager and Technical Development Manager. Prior to this she was a lecturer at the Technological University Dublin. McGarry trained as a civil engineer and holds a master’s degree in engineering management.