Holcim CEO Miljan Gutovic discusses how the construction materials giant is innovating to address Europe's housing shortage while decarbonizing cement. He emphasizes the company's focus on sustainable products, AI-driven efficiency, and a decentralized performance culture. Gutovic also shares his leadership philosophy, warning that complacency is the biggest enemy of success.
Summarized by Podsumo
Holcim is tackling the 10-million-home shortage in Europe by simplifying permitting and increasing supply, with optimism for a recovery in 2025.
The company is decarbonizing cement through innovative formulations and AI, aiming for net-zero by 2050, with sustainable products now representing over a third of sales.
AI is being used to predict equipment failures in factories, delivering 200 million Swiss francs in net benefits by 2028—without laying off employees.
Gutovic argues sustainability drives profitable growth, as eco-friendly products reduce both costs and CO2 emissions.
Leadership is defined by three rules: control the controllables, eliminate complacency, and benchmark internally to replicate best practices.
"Complacency is our biggest enemy. I see my job to eliminate complacency from the organization."
"We are replacing highly CO2 intensive raw materials with more sustainable, CO2 friendly and cheaper versions."
"Make a mistake. It's better to make a decision today, even if it's half good, because in three months' time the world will change so fast that this decision will be irrelevant."
"Sustainability is a driver of profitable growth. We are doing it because it's the right thing to do, and for us, it makes perfect business sense."