Multotec has announced the passing of Ernst Joachim (EJ) Holtz, co-founder and former CEO of Multotec who left an indelible mark on the company. Holtz served as the Group CEO from inception until his son Thomas Holtz was appointed to the role in 2008.
He leaves behind a 50-year legacy of innovation and dedication, having played a crucial role in shaping Multotec into the global force it is today. His contributions to the company and the South African mining industry are immeasurable and will be remembered for generations to come.
“As we mourn the loss of Mr Holtz, we celebrate his remarkable life and contributions. His impact on Multotec and the broader mining industry cannot be overstated, and his legacy will continue to inspire and guide the company as it moves forward. His passion for excellence and his visionary leadership will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working with him,” says Johan Robbertse, Board Member at Multotec.
Holtz’s journey with Multotec began in the early 1970s when he and his wife made a life-changing decision to move to South Africa from Windhoek, Namibia. In 1973, he joined Multotec’s startup team as one of the four original shareholders. He played a crucial role in the development and local manufacturing of Multotec’s first products, including the polyurethane screen panel, which was initially produced under a license from Germany.
Recognising the potential of these products, Multotec began manufacturing locally to better serve the South African mining industry. His visionary approach and unwavering commitment laid the foundation for Multotec, transforming it from a startup into a renowned group of companies.
Holtz was instrumental in guiding Multotec through several key milestones including the expansion of its product line to encompass a wide range of mineral processing equipment and solutions. His forward-thinking strategies enabled the company to pioneer new technologies and manufacturing processes, setting industry standards and consistently meeting the evolving demands of the mining industry.
Today, Multotec stands as a multinational corporation with a presence in numerous countries such as South Africa, Australia, Botswana, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Ghana, and Mozambique, among others. This is a testament to Holtz’s vision and the strong foundation he built for the company. He was a mentor and leader who inspired countless individuals within the organisation, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork.
“Holtz’s contributions to Multotec were immense, and his passing leaves a lasting legacy in the company’s 50-year history. He will be remembered not only for his remarkable achievements but also for his enduring spirit and the indelible mark he left on the industry,” says Robbertse.
