TOMRA Recycling, a global leader in sensor-based sorting technology and circular economy solutions, has appointed Katrin Fricke as its new Executive Vice President (EVP) and Head of TOMRA Recycling. This leadership transition marks a new chapter for the company as it continues to advance its mission of transforming how the world recycles resources—especially in critical industries such as woodworking and materials recovery.
Fricke steps into the role following the retirement of Dr. Volker Rehrmann, a visionary who played a fundamental role in TOMRA’s growth and innovation journey over the past two decades. His leadership helped establish TOMRA Recycling as a pioneer in optical sorting systems and intelligent waste management solutions.
Katrin Fricke brings extensive experience from various high-impact leadership roles across multiple industries, most recently serving as EVP and Managing Director of the Electronics division (brand KATEK) at the Kontron Group. The company is a key global player in the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) and embedded computing technologies—sectors that increasingly overlap with smart factory automation and data-driven solutions in the woodworking and recycling industries.
With a background in production engineering, Fricke is known for her sharp focus on operational efficiency, corporate strategy, and digital innovation. Her appointment signals TOMRA’s commitment to pushing technological boundaries and enhancing performance across its global recycling divisions, including applications in wood processing and construction waste.
“I was attracted to TOMRA’s commitment to enabling circular economies worldwide and its robust growth trajectory,” said Fricke. “I’m excited about the opportunity to drive innovation and continue TOMRA’s leadership in the recycling, sorting, and mining markets. I am especially passionate about plant efficiency, sustainable practices, and collaborative leadership. These are all key to unlocking the next level of resource recovery—particularly in dynamic industries like woodworking.”
Based near TOMRA Recycling’s headquarters in Mülheim-Kärlich, Germany, Fricke’s new role positions her to directly oversee and influence the company’s strategic direction and operational execution. This includes advancing sensor-based technologies and smart systems that improve the accuracy, speed, and environmental impact of sorting materials—an area of growing interest to the woodworking sector, where the reuse and recycling of wood and engineered materials are becoming increasingly vital.
Tove Andersen, President and CEO of TOMRA, welcomed Fricke’s appointment with enthusiasm:
“We are delighted to welcome Katrin as our new EVP and Head of TOMRA Recycling. Her proven track record demonstrates outstanding results, and she is both performance-driven and deeply passionate about technology and people. Her values align perfectly with TOMRA’s culture and our commitment to leading the resource revolution.”
Andersen also paid tribute to outgoing EVP Dr. Volker Rehrmann, who leaves a strong legacy behind:
“I would like to thank Volker for his exceptional leadership and pioneering work in optical waste sorting. His vision and dedication have laid a strong foundation for TOMRA Recycling’s success and ongoing innovation.”
Fricke’s arrival comes at a time of continued global focus on sustainability, waste reduction, and resource efficiency—all areas in which TOMRA Recycling plays a leading role. The woodworking industry, which increasingly emphasizes sustainable sourcing, responsible material use, and lifecycle planning, stands to benefit from TOMRA’s next-generation sorting technologies under Fricke’s leadership.
As the company looks ahead, the synergy between digital innovation, environmental responsibility, and strategic leadership will be central to its future growth. For professionals in the woodworking and recycling sectors, TOMRA’s continued advancements promise smarter, greener, and more efficient solutions that meet the evolving demands of both industry and planet.
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