Up the ranks: Eric Olsen of LafargeHolcim

The board of directors of Lafarge and Holcim have appointed Eric Olsen as the future CEO of LafargeHolcim.

His position will be effective from the official merger between the two companies, a press release from Lafarge stated.

"Eric has been proposed as future CEO of LafargeHolcim both for his personal and professional qualities," Bruno Lafont, Lafarge chairman and CEO, said.

"He has a deep knowledge of our activities, clients and markets. He is driven, with energy and determination. He is a true leader, with the ability to bring the teams together to drive a strong value creation culture for our shareholders. I have every confidence in his ability to deliver the synergies announced and ensure the development and the success of LafargeHolcim."

Currently the executive vice-president of Lafarge, Olsen is in charge of operations and has been a member of the Group's executive committee since 2007.

Having extensive international experience, he had successfully held senior positions in various fields, such as finance, human resources and strategy.

"I very much welcome Eric Olsen as future CEO for LafargeHolcim," Wolfgang Reitzle, chairman of the Holcim Board, said.

"With his broad international experience and insights in key markets, he is best positioned to lead the combined company for the benefit of employees, shareholders and customers. Bruno and I will support Eric Olsen in creating a new joint culture that will be the key driver for our premier competitive position."

Image: Lafarge press release