R. STAHL Announces Leadership Transition with Dr. Claus Bischoff as Incoming CEO

The Supervisory Board of R. STAHL AG has established a framework for a gradual management transition, appointing Dr. Claus Bischoff as an additional Executive Board member and Deputy CEO effective October 1, 2025. Dr. Mathias Hallmann will continue as CEO until December 31, 2025, providing support during the handover process before departing the company at his own request. This transition aligns with the consistent application of the adopted corporate strategy and represents the culmination of strategic succession planning initiated by the Supervisory Board.

Dr. Bischoff brings extensive management experience from international companies across automotive, electronics, mechatronics, and automation technology sectors, along with expertise in developing global structures and digital business models. Holding a doctorate in engineering, his most recent position was as CTO at automation specialist Lenze SE. His career began at Robert Bosch GmbH after studying mechatronics and automation, followed by significant roles including Managing Director and CTO at mechatronics specialist Marquardt GmbH, where he oversaw development, sales, and business units. Additional senior positions at Continental AG and Magna International AG further underscore his qualifications for leading R. STAHL's future direction.

Peter Leischner, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, emphasized that the transition supports the ongoing implementation of corporate strategy, noting Dr. Hallmann's successful eight-year tenure repositioning the company, navigating multiple crises, and establishing foundations for profitable growth. Dr. Bischoff's appointment ensures leadership continuity, with his technological expertise and operational transformation experience poised to advance strategic initiatives alongside Tobias Popp (CCO) and the existing leadership team. More information about R. STAHL's corporate profile can be found at https://www.r-stahl.com.

This management change occurs as R. STAHL maintains its position as a leading global supplier of electrical and electronic products and systems for explosion protection, serving industries such as chemical, pharmaceutical, oil & gas, and food & beverage. The company's focus on safety for people, machinery, and the environment, including products approved for hydrogen applications, underscores the importance of stable leadership during technological and market evolution. With 2024 sales of approximately EUR 344 million and 1,743 employees worldwide, the structured transition aims to sustain momentum in a competitive landscape requiring innovation and strategic agility.