In a significant leadership transition, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a leading engineering and construction company, has appointed Dr. Peer Lubasch as the new Managing Director effective October 16, 2024. The appointment follows the decision of the company’s outgoing Managing Director, Engr. Dr. Lars Richter, to step down after his contract ended on October 15, 2024. Richter will return to Germany for personal reasons after dedicating over two decades to the company, including the last six years as CEO.

According to a statement from Mrs. Cecilia Madueke, Julius Berger’s Company Secretary, the change was approved at the company’s recent Board of Directors meeting on September 25, 2024. This carefully planned transition aligns with the company’s succession strategy, marking a seamless shift as Lubasch, an experienced leader within the Julius Berger Group, takes on his new role.

A Legacy of Leadership: Lars Richter’s Tenure

Engr. Dr. Lars Richter began his career with Julius Berger in 2002 in Germany and steadily advanced through various positions, eventually becoming the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc in 2018. Reflecting on his tenure, Richter expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead, highlighting his experiences tackling diverse challenges alongside Julius Berger’s dedicated team.

Richter’s leadership period saw Julius Berger navigate various growth phases, earning industry respect and achieving significant milestones in infrastructure development across Nigeria. As he steps down, Richter thanked the company’s Board, management, and staff for their trust and support, affirming his confidence in Lubasch to continue this trajectory.

Introducing the New Managing Director: Dr. Peer Lubasch

Dr. Peer Lubasch, an accomplished professional with a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany, brings over 20 years of experience in engineering and construction, with 14 years dedicated to Julius Berger. Since joining the company in 2010 as a Technical Manager, he has taken on increasingly senior roles, including General Manager of PrimeTech and most recently Managing Director/CEO of Julius Berger International GmbH in Wiesbaden.

His tenure with Julius Berger has spanned key technical and managerial roles, equipping him with extensive knowledge in analytical decision-making, conflict management, and project leadership. His qualifications include Advanced Leadership Programs and seminars on Site Management and FIDIC contracts, ensuring he is well-prepared to manage the complex requirements of his new position in Nigeria.

Key Projects and Contributions

Lubasch’s portfolio includes substantial contributions to prominent projects in Nigeria. Among his notable accomplishments are:

• NIS Administrative Building in Abuja
• GE Industrial Plant in Calabar
• Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge in Lagos

These projects underscore his expertise in handling large-scale developments and reflect his commitment to Julius Berger’s standards of excellence.

Professional Affiliations and Future Vision

Lubasch is an active member of both COREN (Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE). Fluent in English, German, and Spanish, he is equipped to lead Julius Berger’s diverse workforce and engage with clients across cultural and professional boundaries. His vision includes a continued focus on enhancing Julius Berger’s role in Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape, driven by sustainable and innovative solutions.

As Lubasch steps into his new role, the company anticipates his experience will be pivotal in advancing Julius Berger’s goals and solidifying its standing as a leader in the Nigerian construction industry.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why did Dr. Lars Richter step down as Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria? Dr. Lars Richter decided not to extend his contract and is returning to Germany for personal reasons after six years as the Managing Director.

2. Who is the new Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc? Dr. Peer Lubasch, previously the Managing Director of Julius Berger International GmbH, assumed the role on October 16, 2024.

3. What experience does Dr. Peer Lubasch bring to Julius Berger Nigeria? Dr. Lubasch has over 20 years of experience in engineering, with specific expertise in decision-making, conflict management, and leading major projects.

4. What are some of the notable projects Dr. Lubasch has worked on in Nigeria? Dr. Lubasch’s project portfolio includes the NIS Administrative Building in Abuja, the GE Industrial Plant in Calabar, and the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge in Lagos.

5. Is Dr. Lubasch involved in any engineering associations in Nigeria? Yes, Dr. Lubasch is a member of the Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).

6. What languages does Dr. Peer Lubasch speak? Dr. Lubasch is fluent in English, German, and Spanish, allowing him to interact effectively within diverse cultural settings.