Tomra Recycling appoints Katrin Fricke as its new Head and Executive Vice President (EVP)
Tomra Recycling has announced the appointment of Katrin Fricke as its new Executive Vice President (EVP) and Head of Tomra Recycling, effective June 1, 2025. Fricke succeeds Dr. Volker Rehrmann, who earlier this year announced his retirement from Tomra after over two decades with the business.
Katrin Fricke brings a wealth of experience to the role from various leadership positions across different industries, demonstrating expertise in operations management, corporate strategy and digitalisation. Most recently, she served as EVP and Managing Director of the Electronics division (brand Katek) of the Kontron Group, a global leader in the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) sector and embedded computing technology (ECT). Her background in production engineering, coupled with her passion for game-changing technologies as well as data-driven solutions, position her well to lead Tomra Recycling into its next phase of growth. Fricke will be based close to Tomra Recycling’s headquarters in Mülheim-Kärlich, Germany. She has been working closely with Volker Rehrmann throughout May to ensure a seamless transition of responsibilities.
Tove Andersen, President and CEO of Tomra, commented on the appointment: “We are delighted to welcome Katrin as our new EVP and Head of Tomra Recycling and look forward to continued growth and success under her leadership. Her proven track record demonstrates outstanding results, and she is performance-driven and passionate about technology and people. Her values align closely with our culture here at Tomra, and we are confident that she will be a great champion in realizing our vision of leading the resource revolution.”
She further acknowledged the legacy of the outgoing EVP, thanking Volker Rehrmann for his outstanding leadership throughout his career. She noted that he was truly a pioneer in the development of optical systems for waste sorting applications and a pivotal figure in leading what is now Tomra Recycling with dedication, vision, and insight.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Fricke stated: “I was attracted to Tomra’s commitment to enabling circular economies worldwide and its robust growth trajectory. I’m excited about the opportunity to drive innovation and continue Tomra’s technology leadership in the recycling, sorting and mining markets. I am keen to contribute to our ambitious growth plans and the development of these fascinating industries. My heart beats for technology, plant efficiency, leadership and collective success.”