European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 IID S.A.: Most Instrumental Digitization Company CEO 2025 (Greece): Michael Andreadis Featuring: The automotive industry is always evolving along with our needs, and we’ve found a collection of businesses which consistently stay ahead of the curve. Furthermore, as CEOs strive to care for their business however possible, from team support to expansion and more, it’s of utmost importance to recognise their excellence. Here we introduce Enescu Andrei, CEO of eight consecutive years at RaceBox, seven years at Pirelli P Zero™ World and Aerospace Carbon Technologies for eight months, as he is awarded two titles in our European CEO of the Year Awards 2025. Automotive Innovation CEO of the Year 2025: Enescu Andrei & EU Business News Community Impact Excellence Award 2025 RaceBox Europe / Pirelli P Zero™ World
AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. EU Business News is proud to announce the 2025 European CEO of the Year Awards. These prestigious awards honour CEOs who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and transformative impact on their organisations and industries. They celebrate corporate leaders whose foresight, resilience, and dedication have driven companies to new heights. The European business landscape has seen rapid change, with CEOs navigating economic, geopolitical, and technological challenges. Despite uncertainties, there is renewed optimism for the region in 2025. European businesses are increasingly focusing on innovation, sustainability, and global expansion, with many CEOs leading strategic investments in digital transformation and green technologies. Many are also building resilience in response to ongoing supply chain issues and shifting regulations, showing confidence in recovery and growth. In this evolving landscape, CEOs must be adaptable, forward-thinking, and skilled at managing change. Today’s successful leaders are not only adept at navigating trends but also fostering diverse teams and driving sustainability. The rise of CEOs with non-traditional backgrounds brings fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to industries. Technology, particularly AI and automation, is central to this evolution. With countries like Italy and the UK leading AI adoption, CEOs must integrate cutting-edge technologies to stay competitive. AI is not just about operational efficiency; it shapes product development, customer experiences, and decision-making, making it essential for future business success. Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: www.eubusinessnews.com European CEO of the Year Awards 2025
4. RaceBox Europe / Pirelli P Zero™ World: Automotive Innovation CEO of the Year 2025: Enescu Andrei & EU Business News Community Impact Excellence Award 2025 8. miDiagnostics: Best Health Screening Solutions CEO 2025 (Belgium): Katleen Verleysen 12. ARQLY: Best Architecture & Construction Management CEO 2025 (Sweden): Fredrich Strand 14. Erum Group: Sustainable Manufacturing CEO of the Year 2025 (Spain): Coral Erum 16. Axelera AI: Edge Computing Innovator of the Year 2025: Fabrizio Del Maffeo 18. Smart: Digital Transformation CEO of the Year 2025 (Serbia): Ivana Ruzicic 20. Easy Group: Logistics CEO of the Year 2025 (Croatia): Matija Bačun 22. IID S.A.: Most Instrumental Digitisation Company CEO 2025 (Greece): Michael Andreadis 24. DaasTek: Best Digital Transformation Consulting CEO 2025 (Sweden) & Excellence Award for Late-Stage Entrepreneur Support 2025 25. 361 Ventures AB: Most Influential Sports Industry CEO 2025: Nicklas Raask 26. Noble Capital Management SA: Most Innovative Asset Management CEO of the Year 2025 (Switzerland): Hans Ulriksen 27. MoVe Architects: Interior Design CEO of the Year 2025: Viktor Banarev & Innovation Award in Future-Proof Spaces Design 2025 28. Iceland Luxury Expeditions: Bespoke Adventure Travel CEO of the Year 2025 (Iceland): Halldór Jóhannesson 29. Informula Kft: Most Dedicated IT Infrastructure CEO 2025 (Hungary): Károly Krokovay 30. MyAffiliates: Most Innovative iGaming CEO of the Year 2025: Clemence Dujardin 31. Aluminium Dunkerque: Best Sustainable Metal Manufacturing CEO 2025: Guillaume de Goys 32. LMI AB: AgriTech CEO of the Year 2025 (Sweden): Anders Bruce 33. Electe: Most Innovative Data Analytics CEO 2025: Fabio Lauria 34. Flowplus Oy: Best Pump & Valve Maintenance CEO 2025 (Finland): Petteri Saerkiniemi 35. Easy Data Integration: Data Integration & Automation CEO of the Year 2025 (Romania): Mircea-Victor Voiteanu 36. SVE Profilgaver AS: Promotional Products Visionary Leader of the Year 2025 (Nordics): Sveinung Sve 37. Graber Sportgarage AG: Classic Car Restoration CEO of the Year 2025 (Switzerland): Roland Jordan 38. New3S®: Cyber Security Innovation CEO of the Year 2025 (Western Europe): Hervé Heully 39. Mateco-Hungary Kft: Construction Machinery CEO of the Year 2025: Csaba Farkas & EU Business News Leadership & Dedication Excellence Award 2025 40. Linnet Consultant: Management Consulting CEO of the Year 2025 (Italy): Fabio Leone Fanecco & Excellence Award for Entrepreneurial Success Empowerment 2025 41. Irish Equine Centre: Equine Health CEO of the Year 2025: Deborah Grey & Award for Innovation in Equine Diagnostics 2025 42. Carolyne Coquet EURL: Ultra-Luxury Consulting CEO of the Year 2025: Carolyne Coquet & Award for Innovation in Relational Sales 2025 43. Luxury Integrated: Luxury Business CEO of the Year 2025: Ivana Laković 44. Verila Lubricants AD: Industrial Lubricants CEO of the Year 2025: Cristian Leon 45. eqe AG: Best Engineering Services CEO 2025 (Switzerland): Alexander Menges 46. DevPort SydOst AB: Product Development CEO of the Year 2025 (Sweden): Stefan Nilsson 47. Paragon Mobility: Most Innovative Energy Infrastructure CEO 2025: Jean Lemaire 48. Srixon Sports Europe®: Golf Equipment CEO of the Year 2025: Lionel Caron 49. Keredge: Real Estate CEO of the Year 2025 (Switzerland): Isabel Munoz 50. Maven ehf.: Data Management CEO of the Year 2025 (Northern Europe): Helgi Hrafn Halldorsson & EU Business News Leadership & Dedication Excellence Award 2025 51. Deep Marketing: Disruptive Marketing CEO of the Year 2025 (Italy): Francesco Galvani 52. EXPO 2027 Belgrade: Young Leader of the Year 2025(Serbia): Dusan Borovcanin 53. UpcoMinds: End-to-End IT Solutions CEO of the Year 2025: Kostas Flokos 54. DataSpace Europe Oy: Data Economy Innovator of the Year 2025: Jaana Sinipuro 55. Oxygen Live: Event Experiences CEO of the Year 2025 (Italy): Massimo Palermo 56. A&S Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH: European Business Angel of the Year 2025: Silke Greiner 57. MadeYou Ltd: Talent Development CEO of the Year 2025 (Mediterranean): Luke Todd Contents
Jul22546 EU Business News- European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 With several years of experience as a CEO of multiple successful companies behind him, with many more to come, Enescu Andrei continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive industry. Providing outstanding services for clients, RaceBox Europe, Pirelli P Zero™ World, and Aerospace Carbon Technologies, the committed CEO leads the way through every challenge, each opportunity, and the industry changes which impact the trio of companies. After having studied for a PhD at The University of Cumbria in Advanced Research, the University of Cumbria with an MBA in Leadership and Sustainability, and earning a credential from the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights, Enescu has truly dedicated himself to his professional development and achievements of personal goals. Enescu’s years of experience in the automotive industry means he is well suited to his role supporting both his team members and those who benefit from the sector’s innovative nature. RaceBox is a premier automotive destination based in Eastern Europe but recognized globally for its innovative ideas and cuttingedge contributions to its industry. Enescu told us: “Conceived as a dynamic fusion of innovation, luxury, and motorsport culture, RaceBox functions as a curated hub for automotive enthusiasts – a place where passion meets precision. Designed with the elegance and scale of a high-end shopping mall, it brings together a comprehensive suite of services under one roof.” Building, maintaining, and optimizing each sporty vehicle, working with many clients at a time, RaceBox guarantees greatness for those who trust in its services and vision. Working hard to address HighNet-Worth individuals’ needs and requirements, RaceBox has become an expert in premium automotive design for customizing with bespoke solutions, enhancements, protection, and sales of luxury cars, supercars, and hypercars which change people’s experiences of the automotive industry – and what it can deliver. Enescu added: “We specialize in modifying premium range vehicles both in terms of performance and visual aspects with over 17 years of experience in the field. The main branch we focus on is improving the performance of internal combustion engines, being some of the main distributors, in the eastern part of Europe, for the top brands of tuning. Although the main branch is the one mentioned above, our activity extends to the exterior and interior tuning area but Automotive Innovation CEO of the Year 2025: Enescu Andrei & EU Business News Community Impact Excellence Award 2025 The automotive industry is always evolving along with our needs, and we’ve found a collection of businesses which consistently stay ahead of the curve. Furthermore, as CEOs strive to care for their business however possible, from team support to expansion and more, it’s of utmost importance to recognise their excellence. Here we introduce Enescu Andrei, CEO of eight consecutive years at RaceBox, seven years at Pirelli P Zero™ World and Aerospace Carbon Technologies for eight months, as he is awarded two titles in our European CEO of the Year Awards 2025. W Contact: Enescu Andrei Company: RaceBox Europe / Pirelli P Zero™ World Website: https://www.racebox.ch/ / https://pzeroworld.pirelli.com/en-us/los-angeles/overview Jun25042
5. also to the purchase / sale of premium vehicles. RaceBox stands as a beacon of automotive excellence, pushing boundaries and redefining industry standards.” “Our commitment to innovation remains unwavering as we unveil cutting-edge projects that captivate enthusiasts worldwide.” Starting and funding this premium company, with so much to offer its industry, Enescu offers some advice to those looking to become a CEO – or a more refined CEO. He enthused: “My advice to aspiring CEOs is simple: build with vision, lead with passion, and stay relentlessly adaptable. vision alone isn’t enough – you need to get your hands dirty, understand every layer of your business, and inspire others to believe in it too.” Speaking of RaceBox’s inception, Enescu shared that the company began as a small shop which has grown to a global brand to offer its services to a plethora of clients and customers around the world. As CEO, he truly believes in staying involved with the entire business’ operations. He is proud of the growth of the company, and the growth of the other organizations he leads, as he stays humble and works as part of the team instead of completely stepping back into a disconnected position. He continued: “Finally, diversify and innovate. We expanded into carbon fabrication and other industries by staying ahead of trends and being open to evolution. As a CEO, you have to be willing to pivot, challenge your own ideas, and take calculated risks. Stay grounded, stay hungry, and surround yourself with people who are better than you in the areas you’re not. That’s how you build something that lasts.” Aiming to have an unwavering positive impact on the automotive industry, and the community within it, Enescu and RaceBox has built more than a business – it has constructed a culture where spectacular experiences can be shared. Enescu said: “At RaceBox, we’ve elevated automotive passion into a form of living art – precision engineering with lifestyle, community, and emotion. Our events are a prime example of that. They’re not just showcases of performance and design; they’re immersive experiences that bring people together, spark connections, and celebrate the spirit of mobility.” “At RaceBox, the most valued products and services are those that embody our core principles: performance, precision, and passion.” Always working to build strong connections with partners, affiliates, and clients – to leave everyone feeling confident and important – Enescu leads the transformation of the organizations he supports. RaceBox is not only a premium company but it is also an organization
Jul22546 EU Business News- European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 which promises, and delivers, unique experiences for car enthusiasts across the map. No matter what its clients are looking for, the business demonstrates its tenacity, from its humble roots to its impressive transformation, RaceBox elevates High-Net-Worth individuals and impacts the community which has a deep passion for luxurious cars. Furthermore, building strategic partnerships, with entities such as Pirelli P Zero™ World, has touched the Formula 1 ecosystem. Enescu told us: “This partnership helped elevate our brand and position us as a serious player in the high-performance automotive space. I also spearheaded the concept of RaceBox as an automotive lifestyle destination, designing our flagship location to function like a luxury shopping mall dedicated to car culture — blending service, design, and community under one roof.” Expanding into carbon fiber fabrication and extremely advanced engineering services, Enescu and RaceBox are creating more sophisticated opportunities for people across the motorsport, aerospace, and lifestyle sectors, which Enescu described as a way to “future-proof the business and also allowing RaceBox to become a multidisciplinary brand, rooted in innovation and craftsmanship.” This has swiftly yet steadily become a core pillar of the business’ growth, as the aforementioned craftsmanship meets innovation. Additionally, Enescu said: “Another standout is the RaceBox experience itself – our flagship location is more than a service center; it's a curated space for automotive enthusiasts. Think of it as a luxury shopping mall for car lovers, combining technical services, retail, events, and community in one destination. This experiential approach is something our clients value deeply. Ultimately, what our customers appreciate most isn’t just a product or a service – it’s the RaceBox lifestyle: premium quality, expert execution, and an authentic connection to automotive culture.” As RaceBox’s CEO, Enescu is truly committed to influencing and enhancing people’s experiences – whether that’s his team members’ happiness and contentment or their customers’ satisfaction every step of the way. With ongoing one on one’s with each team member to make sure all of their needs and the business’ needs are set and on track, Enescu is always involved in the wellbeing of the organization and its team. “Ultimately, I believe my impact as CEO has been in turning vision into structure – scaling with purpose, keeping our passion alive, and creating a brand that inspires both our customers and our team.” Regardless of the challenges that have arisen within the industry, from electric vehicles to the global pandemic, RaceBox has carried forth its meticulous and innovative attitude toward excellence – creating opportunities as it developed its services and concentrated on its deliverance of luxurious experiences for a myriad of customers. Covering its clients’ needs across the world, including Pirelli P Zero™ World’s client-base in America, this collection of businesses focuses on spreading the word of its services while staying true to its original values and goals – so that people can rely on its consistency and competency. As a top “Pirelli” experience for a wide collection of people, Pirelli P Zero™ World’s presence in Los Angeles has impacted many enthusiasts experience of luxury cars. Atop this, Enescu enthuses: “We’ve woven in education, inspiration, and public value. We host interactive events for children, introduce them to the world of engineering and design, and create public safety Contact: Enescu Andrei Company: RaceBox Europe / Pirelli P Zero™ World Website: https://www.racebox.ch/ / https://pzeroworld.pirelli.com/en-us/los-angeles/overview programs that promote responsible driving and awareness. It’s about using our platform to ignite curiosity, share knowledge, and give back.” We heard more from Enescu regarding the current developments within RaceBox: “At the moment we are focusing on worldwide expanding and coming with new products, including an in-house Carbon Composite Factory, under our brand. We are setting up daily new dealers all around the world, including The United States. Reaching out to such companies on a daily basis and negotiating in everyone's favour is pretty much our ongoing strategy.” Ensuring that they abide by the changes and regulations of the automotive and aerospace industries, RaceBox, Pirelli P Zero™ World, and Aerospace Carbon Technologies stay on track to grow even more as the future beckons. No matter the obstacle, the organizations
7. contribute solutions and experiences to help the industries to flourish as well as creating lasting memories for those passionate about luxury vehicles and what they have to offer. Enescu summarised: “Our sales and marketing teams make a very strong formation. Being one of the most known companies worldwide, customers come to us, and what we do best is keep them completely inhouse with every sale and service, and then keep upselling. We have had customers that started spending low figures like thousands of euros, then ended up spending upwards of 1 Million EUROS throughout the years and their car collection. We have strict QC policies and we make sure every customer is happy to the end.” Completely prioritizing the satisfaction of his valued customers as well as the positive impact he has on his team, Enescu works tenaciously to improve the way business is driven forward. For the years to come, Enescu plans to “finish the carbon composite factory for bespoke luxury body kits as well as the aerospace domain. We also plan to set up a premium forged wheels brand with production in USA, and expand the exhaust system dealer network.” With ambitious goals ahead, CEO Enescu and the companies he uplifts are sure to further impact the industries they work with. The company and Enescu’s award-winning qualities are central to everything they do on a daily basis as they educate, inspire, and add public value to the imperative sector. Spreading joy, innovative ideas, and creating a community feel for all it works with, we’re proud to name Enescu in our European CEO Awards this year, and we wish him and his companies success well into the future ahead.
EU Business News- European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 Dr. Katleen Verleysen is a visionary leader maintaining an impressive position at the very cutting-edge of advancement. Recognised as an instrumental player within the life sciences sector, she has dedicated more than two decades to advancing and enhancing its operations – leveraging her broad expertise to lead the charge. She is uniquely prepared to steer this mission, having achieved a significant volume of academic and professional success since first entering the field. Katleen’s journey began with the achievement of a B.Sc. and PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Ghent University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Duke University, North Carolina, within the Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology. More recently, she has completed certification in Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Business Strategy from MIT Sloan School of Management. Across her educational experiences, Katleen received a high calibre of rigorous scientific training that contributed towards reshaping her mindset. She developed an unwavering commitment to evidence-based thinking, analytical precision, and a continuous drive to explore and learn. These are principles that have long served Katleen, guiding her through every stage of her career in the life sciences sector. Over the last 20 years, Katleen has been instrumental in founding, funding, and successfully exiting multiple biotech and medtech companies across both the US and Europe, holding various CEO, Senior Management positions, and Board roles across the sector. This has included serving as CEO at Pronota, CellSeeQ, and DNameIt; and holding Board of Director positions at Best Health Screening Solutions CEO 2025 (Belgium): Katleen Verleysen Healthcare professionals are increasingly demanding quick, high quality testing technology for rapid and reliable results. Enter miDiagnostics, a healthcare technology company redefining the future of diagnostics and quality control tests for biomanufacturing, is meeting this need by redefining the future of diagnostics. Its innovative solutions are particularly relevant for the growing field of cell and gene therapies, where precision, speed, and scalability are critical. Steering this forward-thinking firm is Dr. Katleen Verleysen, its CEO and a key figure in the life sciences sector. We caught up with Katleen below for more information, in the wake of her recent recognition in the European CEO of the Year Awards 2025. Jun25084 ImmunExpress, PharmaFluidics, and the Center for Medical Innovation. Every stage of Katleen’s professional journey has been a continuous learning experience – from producing early stage proof-ofconcepts to delivering scalable products. These moments have taught Katleen how to effectively navigate complexity, build performing teams centred around a shared vision, and translate cutting-edge science into tangible value for patients and healthcare systems alike. One of Katleen’s most recent endeavours has included entering the position of the new Chair of the Board of 4Tissue – a company on a mission to revolutionise breast reconstruction following breast cancer treatment through innovative regenerative medicine. Regardless of the project scope, Katleen leans upon her foundation of knowledge – acquired over two decades of hard work – to steer her decisions, guide her team, and achieve scientific excellence every step of the way. “I draw from this broad experience daily,” she told us. “My scientific background helps me engage deeply with R&D; my entrepreneurial path sharpens my strategic thinking; and my leadership journey has taught me that success depends on authenticity, resilience, and creating environments where people can thrive. In short, I’ve learned that leadership isn’t just about direction; it’s about grit, clarity and communication, and consistently showing up with purpose. That’s how I aim to lead and continue to grow.” Today, CEO Katleen stands at the helm of miDiagnostics, steering the team with an expert hand. miDiagnostics was founded in 2015, as a spin-out of the global nanoelectronics leader imec with a large scale strategic collaboration with Johns Hopkins University, a premier medical research facilitation. Now, the company is on a mission to redefine the future of diagnostics and quality control tests for biomanufacturing. Connecting advanced engineering with critical medical needs, miDiagnostics supports a wide range of partners in pharmaceutical services, healthcare systems, and diagnostics. Its focus, however, lies in cell and gene therapy manufacturing – where its impact will be most tangible. After a decade, miDiagnostics now stands as a renowned company entrusted by its clientele to deliver forward-thinking solutions that are compliant with the most stringent regulatory standards. miDiagnostics’ core programme focuses on rapid sterility testing for CAR-T and other advanced therapy batch releases. Using its proprietary silicon-based PCR technology, the company enables biopharmaceutical companies to dramatically reduce release times for life-saving therapies. In a highly specialised area – where every hour matters – miDiagnostics’ platform can help save countless lives by accelerating access to personalised treatments. At the heart of miDiagnostics’ solutions is a revolutionary nanofluidic processer with embedded silicon technology, paired with a compact, user-friendly reader. This platform delivers lab-quality results from minimally invasive samples – with exceptional speed, reliability, and ease of use. By miniaturising and automating highsensitivity molecular tests, miDiagnostics effectively eliminates the traditionally enforced trade-off between quality and speed in decentralised settings.
9. Best Health Screening Solutions CEO 2025 (Belgium): Katleen Verleysen
EU Business News- European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 “What began as a high-potential research initiative has evolved into a scalable, realworld solution that will become an integral part of advanced therapy workflows,” Katleen told us in reflection. “While we are still early in this journey, the foundation we are building is robust – aimed at lasting impact for both patients and the biopharmaceutical industry.” To ensure that its solutions benefit all – patients and professionals alike – miDiagnostics takes an approach rooted in co-creation. Rather than offering off-theshelf solutions, the company opts to build them alongside its partners, beginning each client engagement by first developing a deep, collaborative understanding of their specific needs, both scientific and operational. With this strategic approach, miDiagnostics does not merely work with its clientele, but works as one with them. At the heart of everything miDiagnostics does lies a deep commitment to people. Whether pushing the boundaries of diagnostic science, pivoting an entire business, or navigating complex ecosystems, the company has and always will champion an unfaltering dedication to promoting the human side of innovation. As Katleen explained: “Innovation only matters if it reaches patients, if it empowers teams, and if it transforms lives. That is the lens I apply to every decision I make as a CEO.” Katleen leads miDiagnostics with kindness, authenticity, and deep humanity. She believes that strong leadership does not begin with hierarchy or authority: it begins with the ability to connect, to listen with empathy, and to foster an environment in which people feel seen, respected, and empowered to contribute their very best. At the core of Katleen’s approach stands clear and transparent communication about the company’s vision, strategy, and most importantly, its values. With that clarity in place, Katleen has empowered miDiagnostics to build a foundation of trust – within the team and its broader ecosystem. This ecosystem is complex: comprising investors, project sponsors, commercialisation partners, suppliers, design houses, and more. Success in this networked climate is not merely about execution for miDiagnostics, but about alignment. For Katleen, it is about creating a win-win mindset, where every stakeholder feels as if they are part of something larger than themselves. “This can only be achieved through a leadership style that combines vision with humility; direction with openness; and strategy with compassion,” she informed us. “I believe in leading as a human first: showing up honestly, listening actively, and engaging others as equals. Ultimately, my goal as a leader is to help create not just high-performing teams, but purpose-driven communities, where people feel inspired to go beyond what they thought possible, because they believe in the mission and in each other.” Of course, the journey has not been without its challenges for miDiagnostics, though Katleen’s strategic, human-centric approach has driven the company forward even in the face of adversity. One of the most defining challenges Katleen has faced during her time at miDiagnostics has been navigating the transition from COVID-19 to a post-pandemic landscape. At the height of the pandemic, miDiagnostics developed one of the fastest, most accurate RT-qPCR tests on the market – a true benchmark in pointof-care diagnostics. When the urgency of the pandemic subsided, however, so too did the demand for such solutions. As with many diagnostic companies, miDiagnostics was faced with a stark reality: choose reinvention or risk irrelevancy. Whilst the industry moved en masse toward respiratory panels and STI testing, miDiagnostics made the deliberate and bold decision to pivot towards pharmaceutical services – focusing specifically on the field of sterility testing in cell and gene therapy, where their PCR platform can have a transformative impact. This pivot not only required technological reorientation, but also strong leadership through a period of great uncertainty. “Investors were understandably cautious,” Katleen recalled, “internal teams were anxious about the unknown and external stakeholders were divided in their expectations. Yet we remained committed to our vision, adapting quickly, communicating transparently, and making data-driven decisions to realign the organisation around a new, more sustainable direction. That strategic shift is now proving to be highly successful.” A second significant obstacle that miDiagnostics has navigated has been scaling its platform from lab-scale prototypes to industrial-grade, validated systems that can operate reliably at scale. Innovation within the field of diagnostics can be inconsistent, often stalling between proof-of-concept and real-world implementation. miDiagnostics, however, has made significant strives in this sphere by embracing multidisciplinary collaboration, conducting rigorous validation, and engaging world-class partners to accelerate industrialisation efforts, such as Thermo Fisher. Since joining miDiagnostics, Katleen has directly demonstrated that when an individual is willing to question their assumptions, adapt strategically, and lead with clarity, transformation not only becomes possible, but impactful. This attitude towards emerging obstacles has shaped Katleen’s approach, opened her eyes to the importance of authenticity and transparency in leadership – enabling her to better serve her team at miDiagnostics. “I believe we need to talk more openly about resilience in leadership,” she told us. “Not just celebrating success, but acknowledging the ambiguity, the pivots, and the tough calls that come with building something meaningful. True leadership is not about having all the answers; it is about being willing to listen, adapt, and bring others with you on the journey.” And for miDiagnostics, the journey is far from over; as we progress through 2025, the company is focused on expanding its pharmaceutical services offering – with a particular emphasis on ultra-fast, highperformance PCR sterility testing for CAR-T and other Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products. These are areas where demand for speed, reliability, and compliance is only increasing over time and, under Katleen’s expert guidance, miDiagnostics is wellpositioned to support that growth. As for Katleen, she has never been one to follow a formal career plan. Instead, the CEO has been fortunate to encounter opportunities throughout her journey, making conscious decisions based on where she currently is in life, the impact she believes she can make, and the time and energy she can commit to each project. These ventures are never financially motivated, instead driven by purpose – specifically the potential for science and technology to create meaningful change for patients and society. Equally important to Katleen is giving back. She believes it her responsibility to mentor the next generation of leaders – especially CEOs navigating the complex landscape of life sciences. Having walked the path from deep academic science to venture-backed entrepreneurship and executive leadership, Katleen recognises that sharing what she has learned and learning from them in return is one of the most meaningful ways she can contribute to shaping a future built on purpose and innovation. Moving forward, Katleen informed us that she will continue to observe the broader industry as it advances, keeping a close eye on specific areas of interest. She shared: “Looking ahead, I remain energised by the promise of cell and gene therapies to redefine the boundaries of medicine. I’m also increasingly intrigued by the frontiers of neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and their broader implications for human health and society. These are not just intellectual results; they reflect a deep curiosity about the future of life, cognition, and connection.”
11. Contact: Dr. Katleen Verleysen Company: miDiagnostics Web Address: www.midiagnostics.com
Jul22546 EU Business News- European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 RQLY is a medium-sized Swedish multidisciplinary company serving as a trusted partner in architecture, construction management, project management, and construction. The company currently consists of approximately 60 consultants – architectures, designers, project managers, and various specialists – bringing cutting-edge expertise to create inspiring, beautiful, and smart buildings that are sustainable for generations to come. Catering to clients across Sweden, ARQLY has offices in Örebro, Salem, Norrköping, Linköping, Nyköping, Stockholm, Ludvika, Borlänge, and Västervik. The consultancy handles all types of projects, from small to large – everything from designing new schools and managing window replacement projects to developing attractive cities, care homes, or acting as a general partner in building new industries. The impact of its solutions can be seen in the footprint ARQLY has left across Sweden, in innovative city blocks, leafy parks, and inspiring spaces. Turning dreams into realities, ARQLY offers a comprehensive endto-end service that takes each client’s vision from the first sketch to the finished building. The consultancy retains complete control of its projects, ensuring that each completed project is done so in total alignment with the standards of quality and client-centricity for which ARQLY has become renowned. With capabilities lying in architecture, construction management, project management, and construction, ARQLY is sharp in a number of specialist areas and well-equipped to lead each project from beginning to end. When a client engages ARQLY as a general partner, they can trust that the company will manage the entire project and safeguard their interests every step of the way. A key advantage of ARQLY’s services for its clients is that is provides short communication paths, combined with its ability to facilitate efficient and cost-effective contracting solutions. As the general partner, ARQLY takes full responsibility for the overall project, ensuring coordination, quality, and delivery – regardless of its size and scope. “No project is too small; every customer is equally important to us,” Fredrich told us. “This is something that I am deeply passionate about – I can confidently say any day of the week that we are here for our customers, not the other way around. Our commitment and responsiveness ensure smooth project execution, from start to finish. At ARQLY, our goal is that customers should never feel that they are Best Architecture & Construction Management CEO 2025 (Sweden): Fredrich Strand Sweden is a global leader in sustainability, positioned at the very forefront of green building design. From modern city blocks to luscious verdant spaces, the country’s environmental endeavours can be seen at every turn. Leading the charge in this revolution is ARQLY, an emerging company on a mission to create building designs that are not only rooted in aesthetics and innovation, but also in longevity and environmental responsibility. The company is helmed by Fredrich Strand, a CEO striving to achieve a better, greener future for all for exceptional design. We heard more from Fredrich below, as he is recognised for his excellence in the European CEO of the Year Awards 2025. A Contact: Fredrich Strand Email: [email protected] Company: ARQLY Web Address: www.arqly.se AIS-Jun25154 simply receiving expensive consultancy invoices. Instead, we want them to see us as a valuable investment – one that actively contributes to creating real value in their projects.” Fredrich Strand is the CEO of ARQLY, who began his career in the field as a carpenter. He truly loved the hands-on experience of creating new buildings from the ground up but has always been driven by the prospect of new challenges. After some time working as a carpenter and running his own business, Fredrich was offered the opportunity to become a production manager at a larger local construction company in Norrköping. After several formative years in the contracting and real estate industry, Fredrich was once again presented with a new challenge – this time, at a large global consulting firm. He spent nearly a decade with this company in various leadership roles, gaining valuable experience and insights. Following that, he was offered a new role at a significantly smaller consulting company, in recognition of his growing industry reputation. Now, Fredrich has spent more than six years with ARQLY, the last three of which as CEO. Reflecting back on his professional journey, he would not trade any of his previous experience for the world; each step Fredrich has taken has been instrumental in shaping his leadership and has contributed to where he is today – the successful CEO of a fantastic, innovative, and forward-thinking consulting company. As CEO of ARQLY, Fredrich’s leadership style is straightforward; he provides clear direction and a high degree of freedom and, in return, he expects his colleagues to take full responsibility for the trust placed in them. Throughout the course of his career, Fredrich has always ensured to work closely with both colleagues and clients, firmly believing that if he does not only talk about what he aims to achieve but also actively demonstrates it, then the entire team will follow suit. He explained: “In short, I live by the principle of ‘walk the talk.’ I believe that leading by example is essential to succeeding, as both a CEO and a leader.” This is an approach that has served Fredrich well, enabling him to expertly guide his team to success. The world is a continually evolving landscapes, presenting new challenges at every turn. Since stepping into the role of CEO at ARQLY, Fredrich has been faced with a global pandemic, concerning interest rates, and heightened political
13. conflict, along with the constant daily hurdles that require continuous adaptability and proactiveness so as not to become lost in the noise. Even now, ARQLY is currently navigating a challenging recession impacting the real estate sector and is continuously monitoring the market for signs of recovery. Simultaneously, the broader economic and geopolitical landscape has prompted the entire organisation within ARQLY to adapt quickly – becoming even more customer- and market-focused. Fredrich often upholds the philosophy: “A flying bird always catches something, while a sitting bird often goes without prey.” This is the perfect metaphor for ARQLY’s market approach: remaining present, visible, and proactive in the face of change. “There are always companies that manage to not only endure difficult times but also lead the way forward. ARQLY is one of those companies,” Fredrich stated. “We choose to focus on opportunities, even in tough market conditions, and we are committed to making clear, decisive choices at the management level to ensure that we are well positioned for the future.” ARQLY understands the importance of remaining ahead of emerging trends when traversing the market’s complex landscape. The company is no stranger to working with new technologies, seeing technological advancement as a powerful opportunity to evolve together with the industry and continue delivering even greater value to its clients. This is the overarching goal that drives ARQLY’s exceptional endeavours – the mission to grow and establish itself as the obvious choice for clients seeking a comprehensive project partner. At ARQLY, the future vision is clear: to become a force to be reckoned with in the field of architecture and construction. The company has already laid the starting blocks over the last few years and is now ready to challenge the industry on an even broader and more impactful scale. There are enormous opportunities in the industry for ARQLY to capitalise upon, with a significant interest in sustainability and environmental responsibility – areas that Fredrich will grow considerably within ARQLY. Looking to the future, Fredrich concluded: “If you truly believe in what you do and work hard in all situations – regardless of industry conditions or the economic climate – success will follow, both for your company and your own career.” To keep abreast of ARQLY’s future plans and projects, you can keep an eye on the latest news on the company’s website and social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
EU Business News- European CEO of the Year Awards 2025 AIM-Jun25141 Sustainable Manufacturing CEO of the Year 2025 (Spain): Coral Erum Q. Tell us more about Erum Group, the work you do, and the types of clients with whom you work. What is your area of expertise and what are your values and goals? A. I am the co-CEO of Erum Group and its director of strategy and corporate governance. I have more than 15 years of experience in sustainability, circular economy, and innovation and technology. I along with a choice few others, have led the international expansion of the Group, strengthening key alliances and consolidating our global presence. Erum Group is today a world leader in sustainable plastic injection solutions, circular economy/waste management, and environmental consulting. Our products and services are present in sectors as diverse as retail, automotive, road safety, household, logistics, and energy, amongst others. Backed by 85 years of history, Erum Group comprises numerous independent companies united for a larger purpose: leadership in industrial sustainability. Today, the Group operates atop such impressive statistics as an international presence in 96 countries, 3,000 employees spread across five continents, and 22 production plants. Now into its fourth generation, Erum Group is spearheaded by four members of the founding Erum family, including Coral Erum. On the back of her recognition with this award, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Coral for an in-depth interview. We are driven by a clear purpose: to generate a positive environmental and social impact through resilient and innovative solutions integrated throughout the value chain of our customers. We are committed to building a sustainable legacy for future generations. Q. Talk us through your previous roles and how you came to achieve your position as co-CEO. How have you used your experience to succeed? A. I grew up within Erum Group. After graduating in business administration from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, with a specialisation in industrial engineering and a master’s degree in senior management and family governance, I officially joined the company, starting in more operational areas. Later, I assumed the leadership of our implementation in Asian markets, which allowed me to know the business in great depth, understand the people who make it up, and connect directly with the needs of our customers. In addition, throughout my career I have complemented training with various programmes in advanced injection moulding techniques, innovation in materials and nanotechnology, new technologies, operational processes, methodology, and communication. All of this learning was key to assuming the role of co-CEO with a strategic, human, and global vision, which has allowed me to anticipate challenges, build solid teams, and make decisions from a perspective of sustainability, profitability, and purpose. I currently lead a team of over 1,600 people directly, united by a shared purpose: to drive sustainability, technological development, and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I promote initiatives focused on environmental sustainability, good corporate governance, and social and solidarity actions, with a clear emphasis on energy efficiency, responsible innovation, and emissions reduction. Q. How do you approach new projects and ensure they are seamlessly carried out from beginning and to end? And how do you build relationships with clients? A. We approach each project through active listening, understanding the client’s challenges in depth. We work collaboratively with our clients – betting on lasting relationships based on trust, transparency, and shared value – as seen through our solutions being delivered on a one-to-one basis. We have our own production, a multidisciplinary technical team, and a solid know-how that allows us to guarantee traceability, quality, and efficiency in each phase of the process. The experience accumulated in sectors such as engineering provides us with a structured and rigorous vision, which we apply to the design of optimised and sustainable solutions. Furthermore, working in an international and multicultural environment, in countries such as India, Morocco, and Turkey, has allowed us to develop key skills such as adaptability, intercultural empathy, and the ability to manage complexity in diverse contexts – enriching our way of leading global projects. Q. Tell us about Erum Group’s ongoing strategy. What techniques do you employ to ensure you achieve it? A. Our strategy focuses on three pillars: sustainable innovation, internationalisation, and talent development. To achieve this, we implement agile methodologies, use data intelligence, and promote strategic alliances that allow us to adapt with agility to market changes and stay ahead of the curve. Thanks to a strong operational architecture and the application of advanced engineering principles, we are able to scale our solutions efficiently, ensure end-to-end traceability, and optimise production processes. This technical integration not only boosts internal efficiency, but also enhances our ability
Sustainable Manufacturing CEO of the Year 2025 (Spain): Coral Erum to innovate, adapt to different industrial environments, and provide agile, high valueadded responses to our customers around the world. Q. What are your thoughts on the state of your industry currently? Are there any particular issues/changes that are affecting it? A. We are undergoing a profound transformation. Sustainability is no longer a differentiator, but a structural necessity. The real challenge is to move from commitment to action, and to reduce the gap that still exists between ESG discourse and actual implementation. In this context, our mission is clear: to accompany our clients with tangible, scalable, and effective solutions that enable them to advance their sustainable transition and optimise their business model. We operate in over 90 countries and work across key sectors such as retail, automotive, road safety, home, logistics, and energy, where we actively contribute to creating value through clean technologies, circular design, and operational efficiency. An example of this is our RTS (return to source) business model that has been articulated in more than 70 countries for more than 20 years, a pioneering initiative in the circular economy that collects post-consumer products, such as retail hangers, from their point of origin, sorts them in specialised centres, and reintegrates them into the production cycle through reuse or recycling. This enables us to reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 99% compared to the use of virgin materials, demonstrating that sustainability and profitability are compatible and mutually reinforcing. Q. What challenges and opportunities have you faced during your time at Erum Group and how have you adapted to meet them? A. All markets have presented challenges, but we have demonstrated a strong capacity for adaptation, strategic vision, and long-term focus. Rather than assuming a nomadic role within the textile sector, we have been able to consolidate and diversify in each country, identifying real opportunities according to local specificities. We have not only adapted to change – we have anticipated it. Thanks to a rigorous analysis of market fluctuations and dynamic planning, we have managed to anticipate cycles and minimise risks, turning our global presence into a competitive strength, not a vulnerability. Q. What is your leadership style like? How do you ensure everyone in Erum Group understands and upholds the same values? A. I strongly believe in leadership based on example, consistency, and closeness. I foster work environments where the team feel part of a common purpose, promoting participation and shared decision making. We integrate our values in all processes, from the selection of talent to corporate strategy, betting on an organisational culture that is open, formative, and aligned with our principles. Q. What are your future aspirations for Erum Group? What do the next 12 months have in store? A. Our future is linked to our commitment to continue generating a positive impact on a large scale. This year, one of our major goals is to consolidate our position as a leader in the traffic safety sector with the connected V16 Beacon, which will be mandatory in Spain as of January 2026. In the long term, we aspire to be a global benchmark in sustainable plastic injection solutions, without losing the essence of a family company or our commitment to people. Q. Finally, with regards to your own career, what plans do you have to build upon your current success? A. Continuous learning is one of my priorities. I keep myself in constant training in areas such as controlling, people management, and AI... and I actively participate in leadership and sustainability networks. I also plan to continue collaborating with international organisations that promote ethical and responsible business transformation. As Coral’s insights show, Erum Group is a fitting example of how a family business can evolve into a business family – one managing an international group of companies and leading global transformations through concrete action. The Group’s commitment to real, measurable, impactful solutions can be seen through the countless transformations it has led, helping its clients become more competitive, productive, and efficient. In closing, Coral added: “Our history is, on the one hand, the story of many people who, generation after generation, have worked with commitment and dedication. On the other, it is the story of the generations to come who will take up the legacy and who, with their vision of the future, are the true engine of our growth.” Contact: Coral Erum Company: Erum Group Web Address: https://erumgroup.com/
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