Tuesday, July 30, 2024 marked a special and emotional day for many at ArcelorMittal Liberia, as they bid farewell to an impactful CEO, Jozephus ‘Joep’ Coenen. After remarkable years of leadership and dedication, Joep is stepping down, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
In 2022, under his leadership, ArcelorMittal Liberia resumed its US$1.4 billion Phase II Expansion Project, with a capacity of 15 million tons of iron ore concentrate. The project is said to be making steady progress, and is expected to be commissioned in the fourth quarter of this year. The project consists of a state-of-the-art concentrator plant along with the augmentation of the existing Liberian rail and port infrastructure to support the production and shipping of the concentrated ore. The Phase II project is set to become a significant strategic asset to the ArcelorMittal group, supporting its long-term vision of ore security. Joep had said in the past that the project would also have a positive impact on the local economy, with significant infrastructure upgrades, including road development, being taken up as part of the project. The construction phase has already generated numerous job opportunities for the local population, and operation of the new plant is also expected to drive more employment generation for Liberians, with an important thrust on retaining and expanding local representation at all levels, including leadership roles.
Under Joep’s guidance, ArcelorMittal Liberia reached huge milestones and achieved numerous accomplishments that have positioned the company as a leader in the industry. A statement posted on ArcelorMittal Liberia’s Facebook page described his tenure as a steadfast commitment to innovation, people-centered initiatives, and community development. “Joep’s leadership style, characterized by integrity, passion and an unwavering dedication to the company’s mission, has been instrumental in shaping ArcelorMittal Liberia’s success. He spearheaded a range of innovative projects that have not only driven the company’s growth but also positively impacted the communities in which we operate. From enhancing operational efficiencies to implementing community-centered projects, Joep’s contributions have been far-reaching. His vision has guided ArcelorMittal Liberia through transformative changes, ensuring that the company not only prospers but also contributes meaningfully to the development of the local community. Bravo Joep, and best wishes in your future endeavors,” a message from the ArcelorMittal Liberia team, posted on Facebook, read.
The post has generated many positive reactions so far, with many commending Joep for his leadership and some describing him as humble. Gift Astoni said, “I’m privileged to have worked under his time at ArcelorMittal Liberia. If humble was a person… if you know, you know.” Onesimus Profitable Dunbar Sr. wrote, “Best wishes, our CEO. Thanks for the services rendered and opportunities given to scores of Liberians under your watch as Chief Executive Officer.” Jmax Singbeh McCauley said, “Congratulations and best wishes to you.”
Joep’s departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide the company as it moves forward. AML said as it celebrates the out-going CEO’s remarkable journey, it is also looking to the future with optimism, confident that the foundations he has built will support continued success and growth. “Thank you, Joep, for your visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence,” the AML post added.
As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ArcelorMittal Liberia, Joep was responsible for all of the integrated mining, rail and port-related activities, the operational performance, and the overall financial performance of the business in Liberia.
A seasoned mining professional with over 30 years of experience in operations, executive management and leadership of mines and mining projects worldwide, specifically in West Africa, Joep, joined AML in April 2023. Prior to joining ArcelorMittal Liberia, he held executive positions with Ambatovy JV, Madagascar, and Newmont Mining, Ghana. Joep holds an M.Sc. in mining engineering from Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and an MBA from Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. He is an Australian citizen with his family residing in the USA.
On June 23, 2024, ArcelorMittal Liberia announced the appointment of Michiel Van Der Merwe as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), succeeding Jozephus ‘Joep’ Coenen.