ASTM International has appointed Amer Bin Ahmed as the new chair of its Board of Directors, marking a significant leadership transition for the influential standard-setting organization. This appointment follows Bin Ahmed’s prior role as vice chair, where he contributed to ASTM’s mission of establishing and maintaining standards that govern the testing and trustworthiness of products, materials, and technologies globally.
Bin Ahmed will lead a 25-member board comprised of executives and experts from various sectors, including industry, academia, government, and professional organizations. His extensive experience spans nearly two decades in industrial manufacturing, sustainability, and regulatory frameworks, particularly in rapidly evolving markets across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. ASTM emphasized that his background equips him with a unique perspective on the challenges of applying global standards to emerging technologies and industries.
Bridging Leadership and Innovation
Before ascending to senior leadership roles, Bin Ahmed earned degrees in business and management and completed executive education at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, focusing on innovation and emerging technologies. This educational foundation allows him to effectively connect operational leadership with technical and regulatory strategies.
Throughout his career, Bin Ahmed has concentrated on building and scaling industrial operations, emphasizing compliance systems and the practical application of international standards. In his previous role as managing director of Knauf Middle East, he oversaw operations across multiple regions, including India, where he was recognized for promoting sustainability and quality while aligning local practices with global benchmarks.
In recent years, Bin Ahmed has emerged as a key figure in additive manufacturing and advanced production methods. His work has focused on integrating new technologies with safety regulations, insurance requirements, and the necessary approvals for regulatory compliance. Through initiatives and forums led by ASTM, he has played a pivotal role in facilitating the mainstream adoption of 3D printing and other innovative manufacturing techniques.
Navigating Rapid Change in Industry Standards
Bin Ahmed’s involvement in Dubai’s 3D-printing construction initiatives exemplifies his commitment to innovation. He collaborated with Nakheel Developers and public sector partners, including the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, to research and implement additive manufacturing programs. ASTM describes his approach as system-based, ensuring that new technologies adhere to established safety, verification, and insurability standards.
As chair, Bin Ahmed faces the challenge of guiding ASTM through a period characterized by rapid technological advancement. Industries such as construction and advanced manufacturing are adopting new materials and digital production techniques at an unprecedented pace. This evolution raises critical questions about how global standards should adapt to keep up with these changes.
With his extensive background and forward-thinking approach, Bin Ahmed is poised to lead ASTM through this transformative period, ensuring that the organization continues to serve as a trusted authority in setting international standards.