Munksjö has appointed Richard Pino as the new General Manager Brazil and member of the Executive Leadership Team, effective August 5th, 2024. He will succeed Valmir Piton, who has announced his retirement effective at the end of September.

Richard Pino brings with him 25 years of experience in leading positions, primarily in the Chemical Industry, with a focus on new business development, result-oriented strategic planning, value creation, and change management. Over the past 18 years, he worked at Croda, holding various positions in Brazil, England, and the United States, and lately, he was the General Manager for Brazil. Richard holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from the State University of Campinas, an Economic and Financial Management Program from Fundação Dom Cabral, and Finance for Executives from Northwestern University – Kellogg’s School of Management, and is a Board Member certified by IBGC. He will report to Manfred Bracher, Munksjö CEO.

At the same time, we announce the retirement of Valmir Piton after 28 years of dedicated service. Valmir began his career shortly after Ahlström’s (future Ahlstrom-Munksjö) first acquisition in Louveira, São Paulo, Brazil, when the company decided to invest in the country as part of its global expansion strategy. Following the consolidation in Brazil, he served as Country Manager, participated in the acquisition of the Jacareí plant in 2007, and oversaw the construction of the Paulínia plant in 2009. In 2018, Valmir led the acquisition of the Caieiras plant, initiating the decor paper business in Brazil (current Munksjö).

Valmir significantly contributed to strengthening the roots of our company in Brazil. Through his visionary and strategic leadership, unparalleled expertise, and tireless dedication, he was a fundamental pillar for the company’s growth and fortification over the years. “During the past two years, Valmir has been driving the next step of expansion through the investment in Expandecor as well as the cultural transformation of Munksjö Brazil, focusing on performance and customer orientation. Guided by ethics and respect, he has supported and developed many people throughout his professional journey,” says Manfred Bracher, Munksjö CEO.

Richard Pino will work alongside Valmir Piton during a transition period and will assume full responsibility as General Manager after Valmir’s retirement at the end of September. “I would like to thank Valmir for his contribution to Munksjö over the last 28 years and wish him all the best in his retirement. I also warmly welcome Richard to the Munksjö team and wish him every success in his new position,” concludes Bracher.