São Paulo, Brazil, September 25, 2023 – Maxion Wheels, the world’s largest producer of wheels is proud to announce, Célia Almeida, the company’s Human Resources leader for its Americas business unit, has been recognized by the Brazilian automotive industry media group, Automotive Business, as the 2023 Outstanding Leader in the Supplier Category.  The annual awards program, now in its 13^th year, celebrated 15 winners – companies, projects, and people who stood out for delivering innovative value in the automotive and mobility sector.

With 30 years of experience at Maxion Wheels, Celia began her career as an intern in the Information Technology department. With a passion for the people working for the company, she navigated her way into Human Resources where she has been able to lead Maxion in its important work to nurture and develop its most precious resource.

Celia has made numerous contributions to the company and industry, with several standing out for their valuable impact on the business.

• In 2014, Celia spearheaded the implementation of the successful Fundação Iochpe FORMARE program in Brazil to Mexico and is now supporting its expansion to the company’s operations in India. She also serves as an Executive Director at the foundation.
• In 2018, Celia was co-responsible for creating the book, “70 Years of Fábrica de Limeira,” and in 2019, she was certified as a professional coach by the IBC – Instituto Brasileiro de Coaching.
• In 2021, Celia served as a mentor in the Career Accelerator Program of the Racial Equality Committee of the Women of Brazil Group. And is currently active in Maxion Wheels’ Mentoring Program and serves as a Member of Iochpe-Maxion’s Global Diversity & Inclusion Committee.

“Looking back, I realize that the principles that guided my career have led me to this moment. I have always believed that when we invest in people, and provide opportunities, it pays off,” offers Célia. “Working in various roles and projects, collaborating with people from diverse cultures and regions, has provided me with invaluable experiences that have shaped my journey. This recognition illustrates how many opportunities life has presented me, particularly with the company I work for; I am so grateful.”

The Automotive Business Award winners were chosen through a two-stage selection process. In the initial stage, the editorial team identified the finalists from submitted cases. This was followed by a public vote. The purpose of the award is to recognize professionals and organizations who dare to lead in the face of the ongoing global automotive transformation, contributing positively with innovative solutions.

Maxion Wheels, a division of Iochpe-Maxion S.A., is the world’s leading steel and aluminum wheel supplier. Our low-carbon expertise and energy-efficient designs help cars, buses, trucks, and trailers achieve real-world carbon footprint reductions. Our diverse global teams and inclusive culture powers every advance we make.

Maxion Wheels works with global vehicle manufacturers on wheels for personal mobility, transportation, agriculture, defense, and off-highway applications. Our 10,000 employees operate out of 31 locations in 14 countries on five continents, including state-of-the-art technical centers in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Together we produce more than 50 million wheels a year, making us the world’s largest producer and supplier of wheels. To learn more, please visit Maxion Wheels’ website at www.maxionwheels.com.