© Nel | Håkon Volldal
Håkon Volldal has resigned as President and CEO of Norwegian electrolyser maker Nel after four years in the position.
The company’s board has started the process of recruiting a new CEO, while Volldal will serve a six-month notice and stay in place while the search is conducted.
Volldal, who became CEO in July 2022, has overseen the long-standing electrolyser firm through a turbulent period for the market. Nel said he was stepping down to “pursue another professional opportunity,” outside of clean hydrogen.
During his tenure, the company spun out its refuelling business in Cavendish Hydrogen, secured major investment from Samsung E&A, and revised its product portfolio.
However, the period has also been marked by major challenges. Amid declining orders and slow market growth, Nel was forced to at its flagship factory while it pivoted to a new generation of system, lay off workers, and plans.
Nel Chair Arvid Moss said Volldal had played an “important role” in shaping the company’s strategy, renewing its product portfolio, strengthening its leadership team, and building partnerships.
“The Board would like to thank him for his strong contributions during his tenure and wish him the best of luck with the next step in his career,” Moss said. “Furthermore, the Board would like to emphasise that Nel’s strategic direction and top priorities remain unchanged.”
In the company statement, Volldal said that while his new role will be in a “different industry,” he remained a “strong supporter” of clean hydrogen and Nel.
