Leadership

Meet our Team

We have a team of dedicated professionals who bring expertise, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. They are the driving force behind our industry-leading solutions.

Davide Padovani – Chief Executive

Davide Padovani, hailing from Naples, Italy, holds a degree in Business Administration from Bocconi University in Milan and a double master’s degree in international management from Esade Business School and the Rotterdam School of Management. With a career that began in consulting for food and beverage companies.

His consulting experience provided him with invaluable industry insights and a deep understanding of the FMCG sector. Since joining to lead our Joint Venture in 2012, Davide has successfully leveraged this knowledge to drive our success.

He has played a pivotal role in expanding and consolidating our supplier base, as well as in opening new international sales markets. He has been instrumental in crafting tailored local strategies for each market, integrating them into our overall strategic plan to achieve sustained growth.

Additionally, Davide remains a key figure in driving Steelforce Packaging’s smart sourcing business model worldwide.”

Guido Hemeleers – Managing Director

Guido Hemeleers has over 35 years of experience at Steelforce Group. Passionate about fostering collaboration and driving global trading strategies, he contributes to the general management of Steelforce, aligning with the organization’s mission to deliver excellence in steel trading, with lately an additional passion for metal packaging. His role emphasizes adaptability and inclusivity, ensuring every team member has the support they need to succeed, wherever in the world they are active.

He played a crucial role in the creation of Steelforce Packaging, overseeing its incorporation and securing key finance agreements that have been fundamental to the company’s establishment and growth. His leadership as President of the Board of Directors and Managing Director has driven significant development in these regions, positioning Steelforce Packaging as an industry leader.

Kurt Crollet – CEO of Steelforce Group

“Kurt Crollet, born in Belgium, holds a master’s degree in Economic Sciences from Antwerp University. He began his career in the banking sector, rising to Senior Account Manager roles before joining Steelforce Group as Chief Financial Officer in 2001.

Kurt played a pivotal role in the creation of Steelforce Packaging, overseeing its incorporation and securing key financial agreements that laid the foundation for the company’s growth. Since then, as CEO of the Steelforce Group, Kurt has been steering the company’s financial strategies and contributing to its global success.”

Lorenzo Padovani – Head of European Region

Lorenzo Padovani, from Naples, Italy, graduated in Business Administration in 2014 and has been instrumental in overseeing local market development since 2021. With a strong background in quality management and commercial strategy, Lorenzo has successfully led purchasing and sales operations, culminating in his role as Sales Director for Italy in 2022. His expertise continues to drive Steeforce’s growth in the European market.

Marco Bisogno – Head of Operations - European Region

Marco Bisogno, born in Salerno, Italy, has dedicated his career to the development and leadership of international companies. With extensive experience in finance, insurance, and steel trading, Marco has played a significant role in various managerial positions across Europe. Since 2022, he has led Steelforce Packaging’s European Unit, driving growth and strategic initiatives across the region.

Gustavo Rojas – Head of LATAM Region

Gustavo Rojas is a Systems Engineer with a specialization in International Business and an MBA from EAFIT University. With extensive experience in the ferrous metallurgy industry, Gustavo has developed strong expertise in Finance, Human Resources, Logistics, and Corporate Strategy, making him a key driver of financial growth and operational excellence in the companies he has served. As Head of LATAM, he continues to lead the success and expansion of Steelforce Packaging across the region.

Thomas Verbraken – Sales Director Key Accounts

Thomas Verbraken, based in Antwerp, Belgium, brings over a decade of expertise in global steel trading and key account management. With a master’s degree in Export Management from Antwerp Management School and a master’s in international business from Lessius Hogeschool Antwerpen, Thomas has a strong educational foundation complemented by a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification.

Thomas has extensive experience in steel trading across diverse markets, including Hong Kong, Western Africa, and Eastern Africa. His role as Sales Director Key Accounts at Steelforce Packaging involves leading strategic partnerships, optimizing supply chains, and delivering tailored solutions for clients in the metal packaging industry.

As a metal packaging enthusiast, his deep industry knowledge, analytical mindset, and global perspective ensure exceptional service and value for his clients, making him a trusted leader in the sector.

Magnus Temmerman – Chief Financial Officer

Magnus Temmerman, from Bruges, Belgium, holds a master’s in finance from the University of Gent. With a passion for banking and commodities, Magnus gained international experience in finance and management through the International Talent Program at ING. Since joining Steelforce in 2017, Magnus has played a crucial role in supporting the group’s international expansion and risk management, particularly as Group CFO since 2021.

Luis G. Jaramillo – Sales Director Spain, North Europe

Luis G. Jaramillo, born in Medellín, Colombia, is an Electrical Engineer with an MBA in Senior Management, specializing in finance and administration. With experience as a professor and in key roles at various companies in Colombia, Luis has been a vital part of Steelforce Packaging since 2019, leading sales efforts in Spain and Northern Europe. His strategic insights and leadership continue to enhance our presence in these markets.