HCME Accelerates Realignment with Dr. Muenster’s Appointment
HCME Accelerates Realignment with Dr. Muenster’s Appointment
Hitachi Construction Machinery (Europe) NV (HCME) is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Hubertus Muenster as Director for Sales, Rental and Distribution Management, from 1 July 2025. This leadership team expansion is a strategic move to further solidify HCME’s position in the European construction machinery industry through increased customer proximity, operational flexibility, and partner support.
Dr. Muenster has extensive experience of over two decades working in the agricultural and construction equipment sectors. His skills range from crafting robust distribution models, overseeing intricate dealer networks, and establishing high-performance international sales teams in various markets. Before coming to HCME, he was Head of Sales, Marketing, Network Excellence Development, and Product Management at another top global manufacturer of construction equipment, where he played a crucial role in improving brand positioning, boosting market share growth, and increasing customer experience through data-driven market orientation.
His appointment is timed as HCME is accelerating its Sales & Marketing unit to keep pace with fast-changing market dynamics and escalating customer expectations. The company is committed to being more agile and responsive to customers’ needs, with an emphasis on digital transformation, customized solutions, and an enhanced dealer network. Dr. Muenster’s leadership will be instrumental in fostering relationships with dealers, increasing rental solutions, and streamlining distribution channels to provide more value to customers in Europe.
In addition to this key appointment, HCME is reinforcing its commitment to agility and innovation by streamlining its internal structure. Two vital areas will now report directly to Francesco Quaranta, President & CEO of HCME, to ensure clear accountability and faster decision-making.
René Koops has been appointed Director, Business Solutions & Customizations, where he will continue to lead the Product Management organisation. In this role, René will work closely with dealers and customers to develop and deliver products and customized solutions that meet the unique demands of European construction sites. With customer applications becoming more diverse and sustainability requirements growing, tailored solutions and flexible machinery configurations are key to meeting expectations and supporting productivity on the job site.
Laura Hendriks takes on the position of Director, Marketing & Brand Communication, focused on enhancing HCME’s brand visibility and market footprint throughout Europe. She will lead efforts to showcase Hitachi’s growing portfolio, emphasizing the firm’s technological advancements and dedication to sustainability. Laura will additionally manage the communication and promotion of HCME’s continuous innovation pathway — a pathway highlighted recently by the successful introduction of LANDCROS One at Bauma 2025, which displayed Hitachi’s progress in smart construction technologies and digital solutions aimed at enhancing efficiency, safety, and connectivity
These leadership transitions in strategy underscore HCME’s wider vision to not just be a reliable supplier of superior construction machinery, but also a solutions partner that assists customers throughout all stages of their projects. By strengthening dealer partnerships, growing rental and digital business, and investing in brand value and customer trust, HCME is ready to respond to the evolving trends of the industry, from the expansion of electrification and automation to the continued relevance of data-driven fleet management and sustainability.
“Strengthening our leadership team and aligning our organisation more closely with our customers’ needs are important steps in our transformation journey,” said Francesco Quaranta, President & CEO of HCME. “With Dr. Muenster’s extensive experience and the expanded roles for René and Laura, we are well-positioned to drive growth, deliver innovative solutions, and further strengthen our partnerships with dealers and customers across Europe.”
These changes reaffirm HCME’s commitment to empowering its network, accelerating innovation, and delivering reliable, customised solutions that help customers tackle today’s complex challenges while preparing for the job sites of tomorrow.
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