Deniz Çatan

Head of Technology & Innovation at Primetals Technologies Germany GmbH

Greater Karlsruhe Area

About

As a seasoned professional in the steelmaking industry, I have accumulated over a decade of diverse, global experience, having worked across multiple roles from technical sales to leadership positions in technology and innovation. Born in Istanbul and raised in Izmir, I have always been driven by a passion for engineering and technological advancements. My academic background in Material Science Engineering and Metallurgy from Dokuz Eylül University laid the foundation for a successful career in steel production and manufacturing. I started my career at Izmir Demir Çelik Steel Plant, where I gained hands-on experience in various roles within the Meltshop, including contributing to the revamp of the existing meltshop to increase capacity. This was achieved through the installation of new process equipment and the modification of existing systems. Later, I supported the implementation of new secondary metallurgy and casting systems, all of which significantly improved plant efficiency. In 2012, I took a significant step forward in my career by accepting an offer from Siemens VAI (now Primetals Technologies) as a Technical Sales Manager. Relocating to Germany marked a pivotal moment in my professional and personal life, as it gave me the opportunity to build a global network while navigating a new environment. This experience allowed me to work in various regions, including Turkey, Western Europe, Ukraine, Russia, and the Middle East, while also supporting projects in countries like South Korea, Mexico, and China. In 2015, Primetals Technologies was born out of a joint venture between Mitsubishi and Siemens, which further expanded the scope of my work in the field of steelmaking. Over the years, I’ve honed my expertise in steel production, particularly focusing on electric steelmaking technologies. Today, I am proud to lead the Technology and Innovation department for Electric Steelmaking at Primetals Technologies, where I strive to drive technological advancements and improve the efficiency of steel production globally. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to innovation, continuous learning, and building strong, sustainable relationships. Beyond my professional life, I deeply value a balanced connection to the environment and actively pursue outdoor activities that allow me to engage with and appreciate the natural world. This mindset extends to my work, where I focus on driving innovations that support eco-friendly and sustainable practices within the steelmaking industry.

Experience

  • Primetals Technologies (11 yrs 5 mos)
    • Head of Technology & Innovation
      Apr 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 2 mos

      Head of Technology and Innovation department for Electric Steelmaking. Electric Arc Furnaces, Ladle Furnaces, Vacuum Technologies (VD/VOD, RH, RH-OB) R&D, Innovation for Electric Steelmaking.

    • Technical Sales Manager
      Jan 2015 - Apr 2024 · 9 yrs 4 mos

      Primetals Technologies Germany GmbH A joint venture of Siemens, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Partners

  • Sales Manager - Technical at Siemens VAI Metals Technologies GmbH
    Aug 2012 - Jan 2015 · 2 yrs 6 mos

  • Meltshop Assistant Manager - Continuous Casting Machines at Izmir Demir Celik / IDC Steel
    Sep 2006 - May 2012 · 5 yrs 9 mos

    CCM production, maintenance, planning, commissioning.