Hydro to organize Aluminium business area for global growth

(Dec. 17, 2004) Hydro will streamline its organization to better support its global growth ambitions in the aluminium industry.

The new Aluminium organization in Hydro incorporates five business sectors – Primary Metal, Metal Products, Rolled Products, Extrusion and Automotive – aligned along the value chain, with global responsibility.

In addition, two geographic organizations will be established to provide key competencies and support for business activities in North America and China.

“With this new organizational structure we will be better equipped to leverage the synergies in our operations and optimize the future metal flow. We will strengthen our platform for global growth,“ notes Hydro's executive vice president and president of Aluminium, Jon-Harald Nilsen.

The reorganization also realigns some plants within the Primary Metal sector to place clearer focus on operational units and joint ventures

While specific transition details are still to be resolved, the new organization aims to be implemented July 1, 2005. 

Martin Carter, president of Hydro Aluminium North America, will head both the North American extrusion business unit and the North American Geographic Competence and Support organization.