Axel Windbrake

Background

About Axel Windbrake

I am Axel Windbrake, a versatile professional with a diverse background in trade, finance, and project management. Born in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, I began my career at Ferrostaal Aktiengesellschaft in 1989, where I completed a 2.5-year apprenticeship as a wholesale and foreign trade merchant. After my apprenticeship, I worked in the Infrastructure and Transport Systems department before starting University in spring 1992 and also during semester breaks. Later, I returned to the company full-time after completing my studies in 1997. At Ferrostaal Aktiengesellschaft, I focused on short and long-term export financing for various countries and subsidiaries. In I joined SMS group GmbH (previously known as SMS Demag AG), a global leader in plant construction and mechanical engineering for the metals industry. My responsibilities at SMS group GmbH began in the department of project and trade financing where I honed my skills in contract management, financial risk management, and financing. In 2012, I embraced a new challenge and made an internal shift to commercial sales, where I consistently contributed to the successful completion of complex projects in Europe, the United States, and South America. Recently, my role has evolved as the company underwent restructuring, and I am now part of Region Europe, focusing on the business of all group entities within the region. This new challenge has expanded my professional horizons, requiring continuous collaboration with international entities that I had limited contact with before. As regions are now at the forefront of customer engagement, I have taken on new responsibilities to ensure our clients receive the best service and solutions. Throughout my career, I have demonstrated strong leadership skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. My extensive knowledge of finance, trade, and project management has made me a valuable asset to the companies I have worked with. Connect with me to discuss how we can collaborate on exciting projects in trade, finance, and project management.