Uli Blankenstein is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in strategic leadership and market innovation across various sectors, particularly in the manufacturing and consulting industries. Currently serving as Vice President of Strategy and Execution at Materion Corporation, Uli also holds the role of Chief Market and Innovation Officer at H.C. Starck Solutions, where expertise in refractory metal products supports global markets. Previous roles include Executive Vice President at Aperia International, where a focus on improving performance for European companies in North America was paramount, and Senior Vice President at Materia, leading operations and transforming commercialization efforts. Uli's career also encompasses significant tenures as President and CEO of Heraeus Metal Processing, successfully managing substantial P&L responsibilities and driving organizational growth. Uli holds an MBA from WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management and has furthered education at IMD and Texas A&M University.