Stadler appoints eighth-generation family member as co-CEO

Julia Stadler has joined her father, Willi Stadler, as co-CEO.

A man and a woman in a production hall
From left: Julia and Willi Stadler in the company's Altshausen production hall
Photo courtesy of Stadler

Stadler Anlagenbau GmbH, a German company specializing in planning, producing and assembling turnkey recycling and sorting plants, has appointed Julia Stadler as co-CEO, effective June 1, reinforcing Stadler’s long-standing tradition of family leadership.

The leadership team now consists of two co-CEOs, Willi and Julia Stadler, and Chief Financial Officer Claus Maier.

“Stepping into the role of co-CEO as the eighth generation in our family business comes with many emotions: pride, humility and gratitude,” Julia Stadler says. “It’s both a commitment to carry forward a business built over more than 230 years and a unique opportunity to shape where we’re going. Most of all, it’s a privilege to do this alongside my father and our dedicated team.”

Founded in 1791 as a village forge in Altshausen, Stadler has evolved over eight generations into an internationally recognized technology company. With its technological solutions, Stadler helps advance a healthy circular economy in every country it serves.

When Willi Stadler assumed leadership in 1993, the company employed just 26 people. Today, that number has grown to around 600.

Julia Stadler joined Stadler in 2023 and has served as chief digital officer for the past two years. According to the company, in this role, she led the company’s digital transformation, driving initiatives in automation, integrated data systems, and artificial intelligence, positioning Stadler for long-term global competitiveness.

“Julia is extremely goal-oriented and driven," Willi Stadler says. "When she sets a vision, she pursues it with focus, energy and persistence. At the same time, she leads with empathy and integrity—essential qualities in today’s leadership. She listens carefully, brings people together and creates an environment where innovation and responsibility can grow. These qualities make her not only a strong leader but also an inspiring one.

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"Julia’s appointment represents continuity and long-term thinking for our company. Her energy, modern leadership style and international perspective bring great potential for the future. With her on the leadership team, we are well-positioned to grow further and shape the next chapter of our company’s success. Lastly, I just want to say that I couldn’t imagine a better co-CEO to work with.” 

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