Biography of Guido Grandi: CEO of NORMA Group -Entrepreneur
Biography of Guido Grandi:
A New Leader Takes the Helm
On June 1, 2023, Guido Grandi officially stepped into his new role as the CEO
of NORMA Group, a global manufacturer specializing in machine joining
components. His appointment was made by the Supervisory Board of the company
earlier in April, with expectations high for his leadership. Before Guido took
charge, Miguel Ángel López Borrego had been serving as the interim CEO. With
Guido’s arrival, Miguel transitioned back to his previous role as a member of
the Supervisory Board.
Welcoming a Seasoned Professional
Günter Hauptmann, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board, warmly welcomed Guido
Grandi and expressed confidence in his ability to guide NORMA Group toward
long-term success. Guido’s background made him a natural fit for the role,
given his vast experience in business transformation and management in both
Germany and the United States. The board believed he was the right person to
lead the company into its next chapter of sustainable growth.
Biography of Guido Grandi: CEO of NORMA Group -Entrepreneur#startup# age#story#investor#shark tank#global manufacturer#machine joining component story
Grandi’s Journey Before NORMA
Before joining NORMA Group, Guido Grandi held the position of CEO at WKW AG,
where he played a key role in restructuring the organization, managing
finances, and expanding business operations. His earlier career included stints
at major firms like thyssenkrupp, Ford, and United Technologies Corporation.
With a strong foundation in mechanical and aerospace engineering and an MBA to
complement his technical knowledge, Guido brought both technical and business
acumen to NORMA.
Stepping into the Spotlight
Ahead of his official start, Guido introduced himself to shareholders at NORMA
Group’s Annual General Meeting on May 11, 2023. During this event, he expressed
his enthusiasm about leading a company known for its mission-critical products
in joining technology and water management. He emphasized his commitment to
aligning the company’s capabilities with the changing needs of global markets
and customers.
A Smooth Transition in Leadership
The Supervisory Board recognized the contributions of interim CEO Miguel Ángel
López Borrego, thanking him for his steady hand during a time of transition.
Miguel had not only maintained stability within the company but also began
implementing key improvements. Guido Grandi, along with CFO Annette Stieve and
new COO Dr. Daniel Heymann (who joined on May 1, 2023), would now continue this
momentum.
A Company with Deep Roots
NORMA Group's story began in 1949 when Ove Skafte Rasmussen founded Rasmussen
GmbH in Germany. The business remained in the Rasmussen family until 2006, when
it underwent a major transformation. That year, Rasmussen GmbH merged with the
Swedish firm ABA Group, creating NORMA Group through a management buyout backed
by private equity firm 3i. This strategic move laid the groundwork for its
future as a global player.
Growing Through Acquisitions
Following its formation, NORMA Group expanded quickly. In 2007, it acquired
American firm Breeze Industrial Products. Later, it bought Craig Assembly in
2013, known for injection-molded parts, and then added two more companies in
2014: California-based National Diversified Systems (a water piping products
maker) and Malaysia’s Chien Jin Plastic. These acquisitions helped the company
diversify its offerings and enter new markets.
A Global Presence Today
NORMA Group was publicly listed in 2011 and now operates from its headquarters
in Maintal, near Frankfurt, Germany. With a presence in over 100 countries and
around 8,900 employees as of 2019, it produces critical components used in the
automotive, aviation, construction, and pharmaceutical industries. Its
manufacturing footprint includes two plants in China and one in Brazil, while
its products are sold under well-known brands like ABA, Breeze, Serflex, and
Torca.
Timeline Summary:
- 1949:
Rasmussen GmbH founded in Germany
- 2006:
Merger with ABA Group; NORMA Group is formed
- 2007–2014:
Acquired companies in the US and Asia (Breeze, Craig Assembly, NDS, Chien
Jin Plastic)
- 2011:
Company goes public
- April
12, 2023: Guido Grandi announced as incoming CEO
- May
1, 2023: Daniel Heymann joins as COO
- May
11, 2023: Grandi introduces himself at the AGM
- June
1, 2023: Grandi officially becomes CEO
