Barend Fruithof serves as the Group Chief Executive Officer of AEBI SCHMIDT HOLDING AG, a global leader in specialized vehicle solutions for winter maintenance, urban services, agriculture, and airports. Appointed to this role in April 2021, Fruithof brings over 25 years of international executive experience in industrial services, utilities, manufacturing, and resource-intensive industries. A Dutch national with a proven track record in transforming organizations, he has held leadership positions across Europe, North America, and Asia, driving operational excellence, sustainable growth, and strategic turnarounds. Prior to joining AEBI SCHMIDT, Fruithof was CEO of H2O Innovation Inc., a Canadian water treatment company, where he spearheaded its expansion into new markets and enhanced its technological capabilities. He previously led Weda Bay Industrial Park in Indonesia as CEO, overseeing the development of one of the world's largest nickel mining operations, and held senior roles at Philips and Getronics, focusing on supply chain optimization and business development. His achievements include multiple successful mergers and acquisitions, cost-saving initiatives exceeding €100 million, and fostering innovation in sustainable practices. At AEBI SCHMIDT, Fruithof is steering the group toward a future of intelligent, eco-friendly mobility solutions, emphasizing digitalization, electrification, and customer-centric innovation. Under his leadership, the company has strengthened its market position through strategic partnerships, product launches like autonomous snowplows, and a commitment to net-zero emissions, positioning AEBI SCHMIDT as a pioneer in resilient infrastructure services worldwide.