Strategic Shift & Seniority Strengthen Sales Synergy

In late May, Ovako announced Larisa Gyllenrapp’s appointment as Executive Vice President Global Sales. Larisa, bringing more than twenty years of global leadership, joins Ovako’s Executive Management Team to direct international sales operations. Her primary mission is to deepen customer value, expand market reach, and refine commercial execution. Marcus Hedblom, Ovako’s President and CEO, noted, “Larisa offers strategic thinking combined with hands-on leadership, an ideal match for our ambitious growth plans.”

Distinguished Decades & Diverse Domains Define Direction

Before joining Ovako, Larisa led the Wood Division at Bruks Siwertell, overseeing markets in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Her earlier senior roles at BillerudKorsnäs enriched her expertise in customer-centric international business, organisational transformation and market expansion. These diverse experiences position her to guide Ovako’s sales into a highly competitive global landscape.

Global Goals & Growth Grounded in Green Steel Gains

Ovako, a subsidiary of Sanyo Special Steel and part of Nippon Steel Corporation, specialises in high quality engineering steel, notably based on 97% recycled steel. Serving customers in bearing, transport and manufacturing sectors, Ovako combines sustainability with resilience. With annual sales around €1.1 billion ($1.2 billion) and operations across more than 30 countries, Ovako’s global ambition now aligns with Larisa’s international perspective.

Sustainability Strategy & Sales Strength Spark Synergy

Ovako’s purpose, “Together we create steel for a decarbonised society”, frames its commitment to clean, efficient steel solutions. Larisa’s arrival supports this vision by strengthening customer relationships and championing green steel in competitive markets. Marcus Hedblom highlighted, “Her leadership will help us deliver our commercial goals and support a sustainable future.”

Executive Endorsement & Energetic Entry Encouraged

Marcus Hedblom will continue as acting EVP Global Sales until Larisa assumes her role in November. Welcoming her, Hedblom stated, “As we continue to grow, Larisa’s international outlook and proven leadership will be pivotal.” This leadership change underlines Ovako’s commitment to evolving its commercial organisation for future challenges.

Market Momentum & Meaningful Milestones Mapped

Larisa’s task includes guiding Ovako’s sales force through shifting customer demands, supply chain pressures and new market trends. By building stronger, more responsive teams, she aims to enhance customer satisfaction and capture emerging opportunities in engineering steel and low-carbon solutions.

Resilient Reputation & Recycled Resources Reinforced

With steel products crafted from 97% recycled materials, Ovako balances environmental responsibility with industrial performance. Its focus on lightweight, durable steel supports clients seeking sustainable products without sacrificing strength or reliability. Larisa’s leadership is set to champion these qualities on the world stage.

Future Forward & Focus Fixed on Firm Foundations

As Larisa steps into her new role, Ovako’s leadership anticipates a renewed phase of strategic growth, built on innovation, sustainability and stronger customer ties. Her experience in diverse industries equips her to guide Ovako’s evolution as a trusted global steel partner.

Key Takeaways:

• Larisa Gyllenrapp will join Ovako as Executive Vice President Global Sales in November, bringing two decades of international leadership.

• Ovako, part of Nippon Steel, specialises in engineering steel made from 97% recycled materials, aligning growth with sustainability.

• CEO Marcus Hedblom expects Larisa’s leadership to deepen customer value and strengthen Ovako’s presence in over 30 countries.