Velo3d Inc., a Campbell, California, manufacturer of additive manufacturing (AM) technology for high-value metal parts, appointed Stefan Krause to the company’s board of directors as audit committee chair.
Krause has more than 30 years of experience working at some of the most recognizable and successful companies in the world, including as chief financial officer (CFO) role at BMW, and a similar role at Deutsche Bank. He also previously served as chairman of Rolls Royce Motorcars, Postbank AG and BHF Bank. He has been in the supervisory boards of Rocket Internet and Allianz AG.
Krause has also been involved with multiple startups during his career and has been CEO and co-founder of electric vehicle maker Canoo.
“Stefan’s (Krause) international business background, his expertise in branding and go-to-market strategy and his deep experience managing public companies make him a welcome and valuable addition to our board as Velo3d prepares for life as a public company,” said Benny Buller, company founder and CEO.
Velo3d announced plans to merge with JAWS Spitfire Acquisition Corporation and become a public company valued at a combined $1.6 billion. The transaction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2021.
The company also previously announced a U.S.-wide distribution partnership with GoEngineer, and has said it plans to expand commercial operations in Europe, while establishing strategic partnerships in both Europe and Asia.
“With truly unique capabilities setting it apart from others in the AM space, Velo3d is actually delivering on 3D printing’s previously unfulfilled promise of innovation and design freedom,” said Krause. “This is due to a relentless focus on pushing the limits of manufacturing technology and helping customers design and build the parts they need without compromise.”