Recently, Hans Mustad, CEO of Mustad Hoofcare Group, announced that he is stepping down as CEO to join its advisory board. Paulo Chaves is stepping in to lead the company. Chaves has been with Mustad since 2020 as its global production director before transitioning to COO in 2024 and CEO in 2026. Previously, he spent 15 years with Bosch Transmission Technology.
“After more than 20 years as CEO of Mustad Hoofcare Group, I will be stepping down and joining our Advisory Board alongside Clarin Mustad as of January 1, 2026,” Hans Mustad says on his LinkedIn page. “Leading this amazing company — now in its 193rd year — has been one of the greatest honors of my life and of our family’s stewardship across seven generations. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built together and confident in the road ahead.
“I’m delighted to share that Paulo Chaves will succeed me as CEO. Paulo brings deep international experience, a passion for building strong teams, and a commitment to innovation that will serve Mustad well in the years to come. He has my full support, and I know he will have yours.
“While I’ll step back from day-to-day management, I’ll remain close to our markets and customers. I’ll also focus my energy on advancing our Equinet App, which I believe can meaningfully strengthen how we support the farrier community worldwide.
“To our employees, customers, and partners: Thank you for your trust, resilience, and collaboration. The next chapter is an exciting one, and I look forward to contributing in a new way as we continue ‘Making Life Easier for Farriers.’ Please join me in welcoming Paulo to his new role.”
Mustad is a Gold Level Educational Partner of the 2026 International Hoof-Care Summit, set to take place Feb. 3-6, 2026, in Covington, Ky. The Summit, now in its 23rd year, is the world’s largest equine footcare conference, attracting thousands of veterinarians, farriers, hoof-care professionals and industry experts from around the globe. Mustad is the world’s largest manufacturer and seller of hoofcare products, serving the needs of farriers, horse owners and veterinarians. Products include horseshoe nails, horseshoes, horse rasps, farrier tools, vitamin and mineral supplements as well as specialty hoof-care products.
“Mustad is proud to be a Gold Level Educational Partner at the International Hoof-Care Summit," says North American marketing manager Rachel Otten. "We are deeply committed to supporting farriers with the innovative products and resources they need. Farriers play a vital role in the health and well-being of every horse, and we are honored to support their craft and dedication.”
Learn more about Mustad here. Register for the 2026 International Hoof-Care Summit here.
