STADLER appoints Julia Stadler as co-CEO
As chief digital officer for the past two years, Julia has led initiatives in automation, AI, and integrated data systems
STADLER Anlagenbau GmbH has appointed Julia Stadler as co-chief executive officer effective June 1, 2025. With the addition of Julia in this role, STADLER continues its long-standing tradition of family leadership and embraces a forward-looking, sustainability-driven approach.
The leadership team now consists of two co-CEOs, Willi and Julia Stadler, and CFO Claus Maier. This strong, collaborative team combines experience, innovation, and generational transition, ensuring continuity, trust, and a unified strategic vision rooted in environmental responsibility and engineering excellence.
STADLER's history of organic growth in the sorting and recycling technology industry
Founded in 1791 as a village forge in Altshausen, STADLER has evolved over eight generations into an internationally recognized technology leader. Today, the company is synonymous with tailor-made sorting systems for various types of waste, enabling efficient preparation for recycling. With its innovative solutions, STADLER plays a crucial role in advancing 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 — reflecting sustained growth driven by a steadfast commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable practices.
Julia Stadler continues a tradition of family leadership
Julia Stadler, the eighth-generation family member, joined STADLER in 2023 and has served as chief digital officer for the past two years. In this role, she has led the company's digital transformation, driving initiatives in automation, integrated data systems, and AI, positioning STADLER for long-term global competitiveness. Her leadership in this role, combined with her prior international consulting experience, has equipped her with sharp strategic insight, authentic leadership qualities, and a deep understanding of global business dynamics, making her exceptionally well-prepared to assume the role of co-CEO.
Julias's leadership qualities are powerfully captured in the words of Willi Stadler: "Julia is extremely goal-oriented and driven. 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." Guided by core values such as responsibility and optimism, Julia fosters a culture of ownership and empowerment, encouraging individuals and teams to view challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities for innovative solutions.
"Stepping into the role of co-CEO as the eighth generation in our family business comes with many emotions: pride, humility, and gratitude," says Julia Stadler. "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."
"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," concludes Willi Stadler.
