Unlike most industry CEOs, Matthias Normann didn’t just step into a role—he created it and shaped INTOCAST into the global refractory group it is today.
Matthias joined INTOCAST in 1994, completing the business management training program. By 1997, he was offered INTOCAST shares and had become Production Manager, where he learned the industry from the ground up. Just two years later, he was sent to INTOCAST South Africa, where he bought out the Joint Venture partners and took over as Managing Director. Under his leadership, the South African operation became the top performer within the INTOCAST Group.
Building on this foundation, many successful acquisitions and continuous growth followed. For example, the acquisition of Hart Refractories in 2003 significantly expanded the company’s product range and market share in South Africa. Upon returning to Germany in 2006, Matthias joined the Board of Directors and was appointed CEO in 2008. Since then, he has led INTOCAST’s global expansion through strategic acquisitions, strengthened relationships with customers, suppliers, and partners, and ensured the company’s sustainability during challenging economic times.
Under Matthias’s leadership, INTOCAST has evolved into a world leader in refractory products and metallurgical solutions. With over 2000 employees across 12 German and 20 international locations, INTOCAST generates more than €450 million in group sales. This success is not just about expanding the company’s footprint, but also about maintaining a commitment to innovation and quality. Matthias has spearheaded INTOCAST’s continuous investment in research and development, ensuring the company’s products set industry standards for excellence and sustainability.
But this success isn’t just about deep expertise, hard discipline, or overcoming failures. It’s also about the culture Matthias has cultivated—the way employees are guided, companies are led, and the approach to working with customers and partners. His leadership has fostered a company culture that values quality, innovation, and sustainability, ensuring that INTOCAST remains a trusted partner to the international steel and iron industry for years to come.
As we celebrate Matthias Normann’s 30th anniversary with INTOCAST, we also celebrate the enduring legacy of leadership, innovation, and growth that he has established—a legacy that continues to guide the company to new heights.
