Smart Molding International 1-2025

10 smart_molding international 1/2025 newsfeed New leadership chapter at Sumitomo (SHI) Demag North America Sumitomo (SHI) Demag North Ame r i ca ha s revea l ed i t s nex t l e a d e r s h i p d e v e l o pme n t . T h e leadership change announcements reinforce the company’s commitment to growth and innovation, whilst also retaining the company’s dedication to customer excellence. Effective April 1, 2025, Liam Burns assumes the role of President, bringing extensive industry experience and a strong vision for the company’s future. Liam Burns has been with Sumitomo (SHI) Demag for the past two years, serving as Senior Manager for Northeast Regional Sales. Prior to working at the company, he had been involved in the injection molding industry for 36 years, garnering experience in both managerial and technical positions. In his new role, Burns will focus on external initiatives, driving customer value, strengthening partnerships, and elevating the global Sumitomo (SHI) Demag brand messaging across North America. Customer-centric strategies and market expansion will underline this strategy to support the company’s long- term growth. “Innovation and customer excellence have always been central to Sumitomo (SHI) Demag's global success. I'm honored to take on this role and build on our strong foundation. I look forward to connecting with our customers, gaining deeper insights into their needs, and working together to shape the future of our industry,” says Burns. Additionally, John F. Martich III, who has been serving as Executive Vice President, accepts the expanded role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) effective the same day. Within this role Martich will oversee internal operations, ensuring efficiency, innovation and complete alignment to the company’s global strategic objectives. Collaborating closely with Beth Belay, Corporate Controller & Compliance Officer, Martich remains resolutely focused on enhancing operational excellence and optimizing business processes. Congratulating the team on these newest leadership appointments, Group CSO Anatol Sattel comments: “With this dynamic leadership team in place, Sumitomo (SHI) Demag North America is well-positioned to expand its market influence and international reach by continuing to provide innovative solutions to the plastics manufacturing industry.” Sumitomo (SHI) Demag www.sumitomo-shi-demag.eu Photo: Sumitomo (SHI) Demag Husky welcomes Balaji Suresh as new Chief Operations Officer Husky Technologies™, a global leader in injection molding technology and solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Balaji Suresh to Chief Operations Officer (COO). With over two decades of experience in global manufacturing, supply chain, and operational leadership, Balaji brings a wealth of expertise to Husky at a pivotal moment in the company’s growth journey. Balaji joins Husky from L3Harris Technologies, where he served as Vice President of Global Supply Chain, leading enterprise-wide operations and supply chain initiatives. His career is marked by a strong commitment to operational excellence, digital transformation, and strategic growth. He has successfully implemented lean transformations, optimized complex supply chains, and driven customer-focused solutions in dynamic industrial environments. “Balaji embodies the core values that define Husky’s relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Bradley Selleck, Husky’s CEO. “His deep expertise in digital manufacturing innovation, coupled with his ability to build and inspire high- performance teams, makes him the ideal leader to elevate our operations and accelerate our ambitious growth trajectory. His passion for technology- driven transformation and commitment to delivering superior customer value align seamlessly with Husky’s strategic vision.” As COO, Balaji will oversee Husky’s global manufacturing and supply chain operations, ensuring seamless integration of cutting-edge digital solutions and lean manufacturing principles to enhance efficiency and customer experience. His leadership will play a crucial role in strengthening Husky’s operational resilience and reinforcing its industry leadership in precision engineering and sustainable manufacturing solutions. “I am thrilled and honored to join Husky at such an exciting time,” said Balaji Suresh. “Husky’s reputation for excellence, innovation, and customer- centricity is unparalleled, and I look forward to working with this incredible team to deliver on our commitments through operational excellence, technology, and innovation.” Husky www.husky.co Photo: Husky