Umicore Galvanotechnik GmbH is celebrating a special anniversary: Dr. Klaus Leyendecker, who has worked for the company since 1995, celebrated his 60th birthday at the beginning of November.
Dr. Leyendecker began his career at Umicore as a laboratory manager for base metals and distinguished himself early on through his commitment and innovative way of thinking. He quickly rose to become head of the department. The associated business trips took him to 36 countries, where he constantly faced new challenges and gained valuable experience. These trips not only broadened his professional horizons, but also enriched his personal development. A particularly outstanding chapter within the last few years was the takeover of strategic business development, where he was significantly involved in the cooperation with Shinhao Materials (Suzhou, China).
This cooperation led to the establishment of the new subsidiary USSM (Umicore Suzhou Semiconductor Materials) this year. This company represents the semiconductor applications division of Umicore's Material Deposition Solutions (MDS) business unit in China. Dr. Leyendecker now heads the Semiconductor Applications division, which includes laboratories, pilot coating facilities and state-of-the-art testing facilities in Suzhou and Schwäbisch Gmünd. Despite his intense professional commitment, Dr. Leyendecker has remained a family man. He has been married for over 27 years and shares his home with two dogs, who bring him much joy. In his free time, he is passionate about cooking, gardening, hiking and traveling. He particularly enjoys visiting cities and sights in Germany to find a balance to his international business trips.
