Julius Berger Nigeria PLC hosted a grand farewell ceremony for its outgoing Managing Director, Eng. Dr. Lars Richter, honoring his exceptional leadership and transformative contributions during his tenure. The event was graced by the company’s Board Chairman, Mutiu Sunmonu, CON, alongside board members, management, and staff.
Sunmonu praised Richter’s remarkable tenure, noting that his initial apprehensions quickly gave way to admiration as Richter demonstrated diligence and vision. “It remains a part of our history that Lars championed sustainability and women’s empowerment in the company. He has left an indelible mark,” Sunmonu remarked.
Reflecting on his 15-year journey with the company, Richter, who became Managing Director in 2018 at 42, highlighted milestones achieved under his leadership. These include landmark projects such as the River Niger Bridge, Lagos-Shagamu Expressway, Abuja-Kano Road, and several state infrastructures like flyovers, roads, hospitals, and iconic buildings.
Richter also emphasized the success of the company’s three-pillar strategy—Core Business, Subsidiaries, and Diversification. Notable among his initiatives was the establishment of a Cashew Processing Plant in Epe, showcasing Julius Berger’s diversification efforts.
His successor, Eng. Dr. Peer Lubasch, paid glowing tributes, describing Richter as a leader of extraordinary vision and commitment. “You steered the company through challenges with exceptional dedication,” Lubasch said, highlighting Richter’s ability to foster team spirit and his human touch.
Looking ahead, Lubasch pledged continuity in leadership, prioritizing the execution of key projects while expanding Julius Berger’s diversification efforts. He assured stakeholders of the company’s readiness to navigate Nigeria’s evolving construction sector with a robust leadership team.
The evening concluded with a gesture of gratitude—a golf voucher for Richter, acknowledging his passion for the sport and marking the beginning of his new journey.