Norm Gilsdorf and Honeywell’s High-Growth Journey

Norman (“Norm”) L. Gilsdorf is the embodiment of innovation, leadership, and forward-thinking strategies in the industrial sector. As interim President for Honeywell ASEAN and President of Honeywell’s Middle East, Russia, Turkey, Central Asia, and Customs Union High Growth Regions, Norm has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled ability to transform challenges into opportunities. His work has cemented Honeywell’s position as a leader in the delivery of innovative solutions that drive the industries forward, making him an icon in the global business world.

Norm has been working with Honeywell for decades and has played many roles, which have all contributed to the company’s growth. His first role was in 1977 as a Pilot Plant Engineer with UOP, a company that is wholly owned by Honeywell. His expertise and determination propelled him through various senior executive roles, where he played a crucial role in expanding the company’s operations, particularly during his eight years of leadership in Russia. Norm’s tenure in the region not only bolstered Honeywell’s presence but also laid the foundation for its success in other high-growth markets.

The defining feature of Norm’s leadership is the delivery of industry-specific solutions to diverse regions. From aerospace products and services to control technologies for buildings and industrial applications and performance materials, Norm sees that Honeywell remains at the cutting edge of innovation. He has been instrumental in a strategic vision that helps transition industries into healthier, safer, and more sustainable ways of doing business in the post-COVID environment.

Norm’s achievement in Honeywell’s Process Solutions group is an example of his excellent work. As the global President of Honeywell Process Solutions, he led the way on automation control, software solutions, and industrial process instrumentation. It not only helped manufacturers save time but also created opportunities for growth in the energy, petrochemical, and refining industries. His previous role as Senior Vice President and General Manager for Process Licensing with Honeywell UOP further enhanced his capability to utilize leading-edge technology for refining and petrochemical production.

Education and awards form an important part of Norm’s outstanding career. A graduate in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University, Norm’s achievements were recognized with the Engineering and Chemical Engineering Distinguished Alumni Award in 2010. The following year, he was inducted into the Purdue Co-Op Hall of Fame, a testament to his influence in the engineering field. His academic journey also includes an MBA with highest honours in International Business and Finance from Northwestern University, thus marking his well-rounded expertise in both technical and managerial domains.

His influence, however, goes beyond corporate responsibility. As a thought leader, he is a highly sought-after speaker and commentator, offering insights on topics from remote operations to sustainable growth. He was recognized as “Innovator of the Year” at the Middle East Energy Awards in 2019, an award for his contributions to the energy sector and beyond.

Under Norm’s leadership, Honeywell has led emerging markets with confidence. This capability to identify opportunities and provide tailored solutions has made Norm not only the success for Honeywell but also empowered industries to rise up to their own challenge, whether it is through healthier buildings, new revenue streams, or well-being of employees and customers.

He is pivotal to this vision, being one who can make technology for the sake of progress and in keeping with sustainable practices. The future is being defined not only by Honeywell but by industries that shape them through his efforts.