IDI Composites International announces the retirement of Ramon Rodriguez-Irizarry, Vice President & Group Director for Electric Vehicles, after 35 years with the company

Ramon Rodriguez-Irizarry announces his retirement as Vice President of IDI Composites International (IDI) after a successful 35-year career with the company.

Ramon joined IDI in August 1985. Hired by IDI’s founder John Merrell, Ramon first joined the company as Plant Manager of IDI Caribe in Puerto Rico. Here, Ramon exemplified IDI’s commitment to and collaboration with customers as he positioned IDI Caribe as a value-adding partner to electrical customers. He quickly became indispensable to the company and subsequently held various positions, most recently as Vice President & General Manager of IDI Composites International - China and then Group Director of Electric Vehicle Market Development.

“For 35 years, IDI constantly asked of Ramon an incredible amount and his spirit in response personifies what we talk about when we talk about commitment. I am so very proud of what Ramon accomplished with IDI and I’m proud to have my friend Ramon be such a big part of IDI’s heritage,” says Tom Merrell, President of IDI Composites International.

With his dedication and energy, his wisdom, and his openness to possibility, Ramon has embodied the IDI brand. In his role as GM of IDI China, he was tireless in driving his teams’ pursuits of market development and operational excellence. More recently, his leadership in the EV market has positioned IDI and its Flamevex materials as the premier solution for the automotive industry’s toughest challenges.

“Retiring after 35 years is a memorable achievement that I celebrate. In celebrating we allow ourselves to enjoy life and demonstrate our values and principles to others. I never forget the day I met John and Verna Merrell. Their teachings carry the meaning of the IDI culture; I strive to reciprocate this by helping others. To those I asked to tackle tough objectives, I owe you a debt of gratitude and love. You are my superheroes. To our suppliers and customers who help us do what we like doing best – high technology thermoset composites solutions – I thank you for your support and business. For 35 years I did my best to wrap IDI’s product offerings with creativity and collaboration, making IDI’s commitment a reality for 12,775 days,” says Ramon.

Ramon’s contributions to IDI are immeasurable and his impact will surely continue in the years ahead. A master storyteller, he has helped shape the next generation of IDI leaders around the world as both a mentor and a friend.

Ramon’s retirement will be effective December 31, 2020.