Roman Robič receives the Pantz lifetime achievement award

Jesenice, 17 December 2024 – Roman Robič, Director of Strategic and Sustainable Development at SIJ Acroni, has been honored with the 2024 Pantz Award in recognition of his exceptional lifelong contributions to metallurgy and his pivotal role in the company's growth. The Pantz Award has been awarded internally at SIJ Acroni since 1973 to individuals whose professional achievements have significantly advanced the company's success and contributed to the development of the steel industry in Jesenice.

Roman Robič began his career in 1993 as a development engineer in the research and development department, responsible for hot forming.  He later transitioned to process automation, where he was playing a key role in optimizing hot rolling production lines. Over the years, his expertise and commitment have enabled him to take charge of major technological projects. With his visionary approach, exceptional technical knowledge, and strategic mindset he enabled the company to successfully implement  numerous key investments in technological modernization and the expansion of production capacities. "Roman Robič's unparalleled understanding of technological processes, combined with his precision and commitment to innovation, allowed him to devise optimal solutions to complex technical challenges. His work has had a profound and lasting impact on the strategic and sustainable success of SIJ Acroni," wrote the award committee in their official statement. "My ability to overcome challenges is the result of years of learning, research, and collaboration with colleagues from various fields," said Roman Robič, the 2024 Pantz Award recipient and Director of Strategic and Sustainable Development. "At SIJ Acroni, I have found an environment where we can co-create a future driven by innovation and sustainable development," he added.

As part of the honor, Robič received the sculpture From Fire to Stars, inspired by the work of Mag. Janez Krajnec, along with a plaque and the honorary award.

The Pantz Award, named after Lambert Pantz, former Technical Director of the Kranj Industrial Company, is SIJ Acroni’s most prestigious internal award. Since its inception in 1973, the award has been presented to 26 recipients, each among the most distinguished professionals whose contributions have shaped the future of the company and the steel industry in Jesenice.

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SIJ Group is one of Europe's leading producers of stainless steel and special steels. We are committed to global and European climate goals and operate in line with circular economy principles. With our steel and steel products, we are the right partner for facilitating the green transition in Europe. We confirmed our sustainability credentials by achieving certification to the stringent ResponsibleSteel standard in April 2024. This positions us as one of the world's most responsible and sustainable steel producers. Our two largest companies are modern recycling steelworks, and our steel is recycled because it is made from steel scrap. With 3,600 employees, we are one of the largest employers in Slovenia and a pillar of the Slovenian steel sector. We are one of Slovenia's leading exporters. About 85% of our revenue is generated in foreign markets. 

Find out more at:

SIJ – Slovenska industrija jekla, d.d.

Sara Wagner, Head of Corporate Communications

Phone: +386 1 242 98 27

Mobile: +386 41 313 532, E-mail: sara.wagner@sij.si