Dr Wim Van der Stricht has been appointed as the new Secretary General of the European Steel Technology Platform (ESTEP). Dr Van der Stricht will serve as acting secretary general with immediate effect and will formally take up the position of secretary general on 1 August 2026.
Succeeding Dr Klaus Peters, who has served as ESTEP’s Secretary-General since 2015, Dr Van der Stricht brings more than 25 years of experience in industrial research, technology strategy and innovation, with particular expertise in low-carbon steelmaking, circular economy and European research programmes.
He joins ESTEP from ArcelorMittal, where he served as Corporate CTO technology strategy - CO2 and circular economy, leading the development of major collaborative innovation projects and partnerships supporting the decarbonisation of the steel industry.
Throughout his career, he has worked at the interface between industry, research organisations and European institutions, helping to develop and deliver breakthrough technologies while securing significant European and national funding.
As secretary general, Dr Van der Stricht will lead ESTEP's day-to-day activities, co-ordinate research and innovation priorities, and strengthen collaboration with European institutions and stakeholders. He will also play a central role in implementing the Clean Steel Partnership, promoting its continuation in the framework of a Clean Steel and Metals Partnership as of 2028, and shaping future European research and innovation programmes.
Annika Roos, president of ESTEP, commented: "Wim brings an exceptional combination of technical expertise, strategic vision and deep knowledge of European research and innovation. At a pivotal moment for our industry, I am delighted to welcome him as Secretary General and look forward to working together to strengthen Europe's steel innovation ecosystem. On behalf of the Board of ESTEP, I would also like to thank Klaus Peters for his leadership and commitment over many years to advancing collaborative steel research and innovation across Europe. We wish him every success in the future."
"I am honoured to join ESTEP at such an important time for the European steel sector. Innovation and collaboration will be essential to delivering competitive, low-carbon steelmaking. I look forward to working in partnership with our members and partners to help shape the next generation of European steel technologies."
Dr. Wim Van der Stricht, secretary general of ESTEP
Wim Van der Stricht, secretary general of ESTEP, said: "I am honoured to join ESTEP at such an important time for the European steel sector. Innovation and collaboration will be essential to delivering competitive, low-carbon steelmaking. I look forward to working in partnership with our members and partners to help shape the next generation of European steel technologies."
Dr Van der Stricht succeeds Klaus Peters, who has served as secretary general and played a key role in strengthening ESTEP's position as Europe's leading platform for steel research and innovation. During his tenure, ESTEP expanded collaboration between industry, research organisations and policymakers while supporting landmark initiatives including the Clean Steel Partnership.
