A construction company established in Salvador da Bahia in 1944 served as the foundation for the multinational conglomerate Odebrecht. This enterprise evolved from a local operation into an organization with over 167,500 employees across more than 60 countries. Its founder, Norberto Odebrecht, leveraged his background in engineering to shape the direction of the business during a period of shifting global commerce.
Background and Education
Born on October 9, 1920, in Recife, Brazil, Odebrecht descended from a line of engineers. His grandfather, Emil Odebrecht, was a German geodetical engineer and cartographer who arrived in Brazil in 1856. Following his early years, Odebrecht pursued his technical training at the Polytechnic School of the Federal University of Bahia.
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The business entity he founded in 1944 grew steadily, transitioning from a regional construction firm into an expansive international conglomerate. In 1991, he initiated a formal transition of leadership, appointing his son, Emílio Odebrecht, to the presidency of the organization. During this transition, he retained a role as chairman, ensuring continuity in the strategic direction of the group.
Management Philosophy and Philanthropy
Beyond his engineering and entrepreneurial work, Odebrecht formalized his internal management principles through a series of writings. These thoughts were compiled into three distinct volumes, which were distributed to the entire workforce of the company. Additionally, he established the Brazilian Odebrecht Foundation to formalize his philanthropic interests and contributions.
Death and Legacy
Norberto Odebrecht died on July 19, 2014, in Salvador, Bahia, at the age of 93. His professional tenure spanned a pivotal era of industrial growth in Brazil, during which time his company established itself as a significant player in the global construction market.
Fast facts
- Born: 9 October 1920, Recife, Brazil
- Died: 19 July 2014, Salvador, Brazil
- Education: Polytechnic School of the Federal University of Bahia
- Key Enterprise: Odebrecht
- Philanthropic Entity: Fundação Odebrecht
- Nationality: Brazil
- Occupations: Businessperson, engineer, entrepreneur
Questions readers ask
When did Norberto Odebrecht step down from the presidency of his company?
He passed the presidency to his son, Emílio Odebrecht, in 1991.
Where did Norberto Odebrecht receive his education?
He studied at the Polytechnic School of the Federal University of Bahia.
Achievements
- Educated at Polytechnic School of the Federal University of Bahia
