First Bauxite LLC Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Ralf Schoenfelder as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Ralf’s appointment follows an extensive recruitment process led by Johnson Partners executive search firm.
With a strong track record of success and extensive experience in international industrial materials, mining, and minerals as well as over 25 years of experience in managing and scaling companies and business units of various sizes across the globe, Ralf brings a wealth of leadership and strategic experience to First Bauxite. His industry knowledge and proven ability to drive results will be instrumental in steering the business at this pivotal point in its history.
Ralf most recently held the position of Executive Vice President International – Performance Materials at Prince International, LLC (today Vibrantz) which he joined in 2011, following the acquisition of IGC Technologies LLC, a private equity held manufacturer of value-added metallurgical consumables where he served as CEO. During his time with IGC he initiated and executed the company’s successful product portfolio diversification and positioning strategy. He also led IGC through the 2009-10 global manufacturing recession with a streamlined manufacturing process while maintaining its workforce, and the extension of its international sales as the result. Before IGC Technologies LLC, Ralf served as General Manager for BPB Formula’s plant in Germany, manufacturing minerals-based industrial consumables. Ralf has been actively involved in various Mergers and Acquisitions throughout his career and has held executive positions in Europe, South America, Asia, South Africa, and Australia.
In accepting the new role, Ralf expressed, “I joined First Bauxite because I can see the great potential in the company. I look forward to working with everyone on the First Bauxite team to establish a sustainable business built on safety, robust processes, a people-centric culture, discipline execution and respect. I believe there is an exciting future in front of us with growth potential and opportunity.”
Ralf will succeed Calum Semple, interim CEO, who will remain on the Board of Directors. To ensure continuity and a successful transition, Calum will work closely with Ralf and the Executive Team over the next couple of months. The Board of Directors expresses its gratitude to Calum for his significant contributions and leadership during his tenure, including the completion of a business plan focusing operations to deliver success in an ever-evolving business landscape.
As First Bauxite enters this new chapter under the leadership of Ralf, it remains committed to delivering exceptional products to its valued customers.
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