Stefan Brandl Appointed New CEO of SCHOTT - Dr. Torsten Derr to Step Down

The decision was reached by mutual agreement for family reasons. Stefan Brandl, who has served on SCHOTT’s Supervisory Board, has been appointed Derr’s successor, effective Nov. 1, 2026.

"Together, we achieved a lot for SCHOTT, and introduced important changes that will strengthen the company's future," said Derr. "A key element of this transformation has been to give our business units greater responsibility and entrepreneurial freedom. I am convinced that our nearly 18,000 colleagues will continue this successful journey."

The Supervisory Board of SCHOTT AG has approved the early termination of Derr's appointment. 

"We respect Dr. Torsten Derr's personal decision and thank him for his outstanding commitment and for the important contributions he has made to SCHOTT,” said Dr. Michael Bolle, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of SCHOTT AG. “Under his leadership, decisive strategic foundations were laid for the company's future development. We wish him all the best for both his personal and professional future."

"I would like to thank all employees for their collaboration and their extraordinary commitment. I wish the entire SCHOTT family continued success,” Derr added. “My personal farewell message reflects our company strategy: Focus on what truly matters."

Brandl, 58, has been Vice Chairman and CEO of the Dräxlmaier Group, a German automotive supplier, since 2021. Prior to this role, he served as Chief Executive Officer of the ebm-papst Group, a manufacturer of electric motors and fans, from 2017 to 2021.

With the appointment of Brandl, SCHOTT combines deep knowledge of the company with extensive international executive leadership experience. His many years of service on the Supervisory Board of SCHOTT AG, together with his leadership of globally operating companies, provide a strong foundation for the company's future development.

"Through his work on the Supervisory Board, Stefan Brandl has developed a deep understanding of SCHOTT, its strategy, and its unique responsibilities as a foundation-owned company,” said Dr. Michael Bolle, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of SCHOTT AG. “In my view, these are ideal qualifications for the role of CEO and a strong basis for the continued successful development of SCHOTT."

"SCHOTT is an exceptional company with outstanding technological capabilities, an impressive global presence, and, above all, highly dedicated employees,” said Brandl. “I am honored to assume the responsibility of Chief Executive Officer and look forward to continuing SCHOTT's successful development together with the Management Board, our leaders, and our employees. My focus will be on further strengthening SCHOTT's international competitiveness, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking, and ensuring that we seize the opportunities of the years ahead together as an organization."