Interview on company succession at IFA Technology: Stefan Neumann and Karl-Heinz Gruber provide insights into company succession at IFA Technology. The two managing directors talk about how they divide up their responsibilities, their common goals and the future of the company.
1. How do you complement each other in the dual management, and what strengths do you each bring to the table?
Stefan Neumann: We have effectively divided our tasks, which enables us to work together efficiently. I concentrate primarily on project work and the plant business at IFA Technology. My focus is on developing customized solutions for our customers and implementing projects in a targeted manner.
Karl-Heinz Gruber: I am responsible for internal operations, such as human resources, administration, IT and infrastructure. We represent each other to ensure consistent leadership and make joint decisions in key areas such as budget and financials. It is important to us that the transition is well structured and transparent by 2026, when Stefan will take over full management. This is how we create security and continuity for the company and its employees.
2. What common goals are you pursuing to sustainably strengthen and develop the company?
Karl-Heinz Gruber: Our goal is to maintain IFA Technology at a stable revenue level and to grow healthily. For us, sustainable growth means achieving revenue increases while optimizing our processes and structures to become more efficient.
Stefan Neumann: Exactly. An important focus is on digitization and the use of innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence. These enable us to ensure our competitiveness and continue to act as a pioneer in our industry. With the wealth of experience of our team, we want to streamline processes and make projects more efficient with smart solutions.
3. What new trends or technologies do you consider particularly relevant for our industry?
Stefan Neumann: Smart technologies will have a lasting impact on our industry, especially in the field of custom-built plant construction, where customized work is required. These technologies give us a significant competitive advantage.
Karl-Heinz Gruber: For us, reliability, quality and a comprehensive range of services are our top priorities. We focus on a healthy balance between innovation and proven quality. This enables us to successfully compete in a highly competitive market.
4. What inspires you personally about the industry and IFA Technology?
Karl-Heinz Gruber: When I started at IFA Technology, we had a small team of 11 employees and were working on our first Gravimet system. Today, the company is an important part of my life – with all its ups and downs. It is incredibly fulfilling to develop solutions for our customers together with a strong team and to continuously advance the company.
Stefan Neumann: I am particularly enthusiastic about the growth potential in our industry. The potential to expand with innovative customised solutions for our customers motivates me every day. The close contact with our customers and the joint development of projects is one of the greatest joys of my work. There is nothing more inspiring than seeing an idea become a successful project.
