HEGLA Group has completed a planned leadership transition, with Christian Decker taking over as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Decker has already assumed responsibility for the group, while current CEO Bernhard Hötger will retire on 30 September 2026 after more than 42 years with HEGLA.
Decker brings extensive experience from the mechanical engineering industry, including leadership of an international mechanical engineering company. His background includes managing customer-specific machinery projects and one-off production, experience that closely aligns with HEGLA’s focus on specialised machinery and solutions for the glass-processing industry.
According to HEGLA, Decker’s industry experience and external perspective will support the company as it continues to develop its international operations and technology portfolio. His appointment completes a management transition that has been prepared over several years.
Toni Schön (CSO), Dr Heinrich Ostendarp (CTIO) and Peter Herrmann (COO).
Decker will lead HEGLA alongside Toni Schön, Chief Sales Officer; Peter Herrmann, Chief Operations Officer; and Dr Heinrich Ostendarp, Chief Technology and Development Officer. The wider management structure also includes executives responsible for HEGLA’s specialised companies and operations. 
Hötger’s retirement marks the end of a 42-year career with the group. During his tenure, HEGLA evolved into an internationally recognised machinery specialist. The company says the leadership change is designed to ensure continuity while bringing new perspectives to its future development.
“Christian Decker stands out for his longstanding links to the mechanical engineering industry,” HEGLA said, highlighting his experience as a key asset for the next phase of the group’s development.
Source: HEGLA with additional information added by Glass Balkan
