Julius Berger Nigeria PLC held a grand farewell party on Wednesday for its outgoing Managing Director, Eng. Dr. Lars Richter.
The event, organized by the company, saw a large turnout, with the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mutiu Sunmonu, CON, along with other board members, management, and staff, expressing their gratitude and best wishes to Richter as he embarks on the next phase of his career.
Sunmonu, who worked closely with Richter for six years, shared his initial concerns when Richter first assumed the role of Chief Executive in 2018.
However, these worries were quickly dispelled as Richter proved his mettle by successfully navigating the challenges of leading a construction giant like Julius Berger.
Sunmonu praised Richter for his dedication, particularly highlighting his efforts in championing sustainability and advocating for the advancement of women within the company.
Richter, in his address, reflected on his 15-year journey with Julius Berger, starting as a young engineer in Abuja.
He expressed his pride in the achievements made during his tenure, which included the successful execution of several high-profile projects such as the River Niger Bridge, the Lagos-Shagamu Expressway, and Sections 2 and 3 of the Abuja-Kano Road.
Richter also emphasized the significance of his administration’s three-pillar strategy, which focused on core business growth, strengthening subsidiaries, and diversification.
Richter’s successor, Eng. Dr. Peer Lubasch, commended his predecessor for his extraordinary vision and leadership.
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Lubasch took the opportunity to present a detailed overview of Richter’s career, from his early days in the construction industry to his impactful leadership at Julius Berger.
He also acknowledged Richter’s role in the company’s diversification initiatives, including the establishment of the Cashew Processing Plant in Epe.
Lubasch, who is committed to ensuring the seamless continuation of the company’s goals, outlined the company’s priorities for the future, including the execution of critical projects for both the Nigerian federal and state governments.
Richter also reiterated Julius Berger’s focus on diversification to safeguard the company amidst economic fluctuations in Nigeria’s construction sector.
The event concluded with a lighter moment, as Lubasch presented Richter with a golf voucher, acknowledging his passion for the sport and wishing him enjoyable retirement days.
Lubasch expressed confidence in the company’s leadership team and affirmed his commitment to working alongside them to achieve Julius Berger’s strategic goals.