Wagner to retire after nearly 40 years

GERMANY: Thomas Wagner, deputy CEO and chief operating officer of German fan manufacturer EBM-Papst is to retire at the end of August after almost four decades with the company.

During his time in office, Wagner positioned the company internationally and strategically to become a leading manufacturer of fans and drives. He laid the foundations for today’s global production network which encompasses 27 sites worldwide, including Europe, China and the USA.

In paying tribute to Wagner, CEO Dr Klaus Geißdörfer described his “key role” in shaping the business. “He is one of the architects of our global company,” he said.

Wagner will be replaced by Frank Mayer, who joins EBM-Papst from the mechanical engineering company and automotive supplier Schaeffler AG, where he was head of the thermal management division.

This change at the top comes as EBM-Papst posts a record turnover of €2.54bn for fiscal year 2022/23, an 11% increase on the previous year.