The European Composites Industry Association (EuCIA, Brussels / Belgium; www.eucia.eu) has announced the appointment of Ben Drogt as its first managing director. The 57 years old native dutch brings more than 35 years of composites industry experience and a master’s degree in aerospace technology to the table. “I have been collaborating with EuCIA since 2015 on several sustainability-focused projects, including the development and launch of the Eco Calculator tool for assessing the environmental impact of composite products,” Drogt said, adding that there are challenges for the industry which need representation at the European level.

The new MD, who spent 25 years in different R&D and business positions at DSM (Heerlen / The Netherlands; www.dsm.com) and has been an independent consultant since 2010, is tasked with further developing co-operations and partnerships with industry groups in sectors where composites are used, according to the association.

Roberto Frassine, president of EuCIA, said, “Ben is joining us at a time when we are looking to expand our activities to better serve the European composites market. We are sure that his experience and his professional network will contribute greatly to the visibility and effectiveness of our organisation.”