Europe’s manufacturing technology industry has entered a new leadership chapter with the election of José Pérez Berdud as President of CECIMO, the European Association of Manufacturing Technologies. The appointment was confirmed during the organization’s General Assembly held in Basel, where industry representatives gathered to discuss the future direction of Europe’s advanced manufacturing sector.
Pérez Berdud, Chief Executive Officer of Fagor Automation and President of AFM Cluster, succeeds François Duval and will serve a two-year term. His election comes at a pivotal time for European industry as manufacturers navigate technological transformation, global competition, sustainability objectives and the growing need to strengthen industrial capabilities across the continent.
Bringing decades of experience in automation, machine tools and industrial innovation, Pérez Berdud has built a distinguished career within the manufacturing technology sector. Since joining Fagor Automation in 1993, he has held leadership roles across research and development, manufacturing, logistics and procurement before becoming Chief Executive Officer in 2016. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its technological capabilities, strengthened its international presence and continued to invest in innovation.
In his new role, Pérez Berdud will focus on enhancing CECIMO’s position as a leading voice for Europe’s advanced manufacturing industries. Key priorities include supporting industrial competitiveness, promoting investment and innovation, strengthening technology adoption and ensuring that policy initiatives translate into practical benefits for manufacturers across the region.
A central element of the organization’s agenda will be improving the effectiveness of the European Single Market by addressing barriers that limit industrial growth, cross-border collaboration and technology deployment. CECIMO will also continue advocating for fair international competition and policies that enable European manufacturers to compete globally while maintaining high standards of quality, innovation and sustainability.
Alongside the presidential transition, CECIMO confirmed several additional leadership appointments. Riccardo Rosa was reappointed to lead the Technical Committee, while François Duval will now chair the Economic Committee, overseeing the association’s work in market analysis, economic forecasting and industry statistics. Jan Rýdl was also reappointed Treasurer, ensuring continuity in the organization’s financial oversight.
The new leadership team will work closely with industry stakeholders, policymakers and member associations to support the continued development of Europe’s manufacturing technology sector. Their collective focus will be on creating an environment that encourages industrial investment, technological advancement and sustainable growth.
As manufacturing technologies become increasingly central to industrial competitiveness, automation and digital transformation, CECIMO’s leadership transition reflects the organization’s commitment to helping European manufacturers adapt, innovate and strengthen their position within the global industrial landscape.
