SCHOTT AG has appointed Stefan Brandl as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective November 1, 2026. He will succeed Dr. Torsten Derr, who will leave the company’s Management Board on October 31, 2026, following a mutually agreed early termination of his appointment for family reasons.
Derr has led SCHOTT through a period of transformation, including greater responsibility and entrepreneurial freedom for the company’s business units. During his tenure, SCHOTT continued to strengthen its international operations and technology-focused portfolio.
Brandl, 58, brings extensive international industrial leadership experience to the role. Since 2021, he has served as Vice Chairman and CEO of the Dräxlmaier Group, a German automotive supplier. Previously, from 2017 to 2021, he was CEO of the ebm-papst Group, a global manufacturer of electric motors and fans.
His appointment also provides continuity, as Brandl has served for several years on SCHOTT AG’s Supervisory Board, giving him established knowledge of the company and its global operations. 
As CEO, Brandl said his priorities will include strengthening SCHOTT’s international competitiveness, innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, while capitalising on opportunities ahead.
With around 18,000 employees worldwide, SCHOTT develops specialty glass and advanced materials for sectors including healthcare, electronics, optics and industry.
Source: SCHOTT AG with additional information added by Glass Balkan
