Posted March 2, 2016

 

PFÄFFIKON, Schwyz, Switzerland – The board of directors of Oerlikon announced that it has named Dr. Roland Fischer as CEO of the Oerlikon Group, effective March 1.

 

In line with the new strategic direction to build a global powerhouse in surface solutions and advanced materials, Oerlikon is mandating an experienced senior industry expert with broad expertise in the company’s key industries and markets to execute the strategy. Dr. Brice Koch will leave the company.

 

Fischer previously held various senior executive positions in the energy and the aviation and aerospace business, including seven years at Siemens AG and 18 years at MTU Aero Engines AG. Most recently, he was CEO of the Power and Gas Division at Siemens AG – a business that generated EUR 13 billion of sales in 2014.

 

Fischer holds a degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of Stuttgart, Germany and a Ph.D. in aeronautical engineering from the University of Karlsruhe, Germany.

 

“Roland Fischer brings in-depth expertise in engineering, operational leadership and a remarkable track record in building and growing businesses,” said Prof. Dr. Michael Süss, Oerlikon’s chairman. “His strong leadership skills and extensive experience in the aviation and aerospace and energy markets will be of great value to Oerlikon as we continue to implement our strategy. The board of directors is convinced that Roland brings with him the needed competence and qualities to lead the company into this important next phase.

 

“I would like to thank Brice Koch for his important contribution,” he added. “He has led the Oerlikon Group through a phase of important transformations since joining in 2014. We sincerely thank Brice for his efforts and wish him all the best for the future.”

 

Said Fischer: “Oerlikon enjoys an excellent reputation in the industry for its engineering, innovations and customer relationships. It has exceptional technologies, leading positions in key growth markets and a promising strategy. I look forward to leading Oerlikon into a new era and to working in a fascinating and future-oriented business.”

 

Change in the board of directors

 

The board of directors of Oerlikon announced that at its upcoming Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM), taking place on April 5, it will be proposing to the shareholders to re-elect Gerhard Pegam, Prof. Dr. Michael Süss and Hans Ziegler. Dr. Mary Gresens, Mikhail Lifshitz and Johan van de Steen have decided not to stand for re-election.

 

Source: Oerlikon