After more than 40 years, the expert is retiring. Born in Switzerland, he has made a significant contribution to Umicore's success. However, he will remain involved in electroplating technology in his role as Managing Director of Z.O.G. (Zentrum für Oberflächentechnik Schwäbisch Gmund e.V.).
A life for electroplating
Arnet's professional career began in 1979 with an apprenticeship as a chemical laboratory technician in Switzerland. Attending the University of Applied Sciences in Schwäbisch Gmund brought him into contact with his future workplace. After graduating as a state-certified electroplating technician, his first job was at Umicore (then Degussa) in 1984. The company put him in charge of the technical center the very next year. In 1995, Arnet took over product responsibility in the electroforming division. During this time, among other things, the product Aurunar 568 EF-18 was developed, a gold-silver electrolyte that is free of cadmium and other substances of concern.
Leading role shaped by Umicore
According to the company, Umicore's leading role in decorative precious metal coating is due in no small part to Erich Arnet, who expanded his activities to include global sales in this segment from 2007. "His expertise and commitment have always been a guarantee of the highest quality and customer satisfaction and therefore a key part of our success in decorative applications," confirms Managing Director Michael Herkommer.
According to Arnet, he will miss his customers and his trips to visit them the most. Thanks to his worldwide assignments on almost every continent, he was able to enjoy good customer relationships and gain experience in different cultures.