After financial investor Perusa took over as principal shareholder in September 2013, the reorganization of the German helmet manufacturer is now clearly taking shape: Jan-Christian Becker has been officially confirmed in his position as Chief Executive Officers (CEO) of the well-established Magdeburg company.
He had already been managing the Schuberth Group since September, initially as part of the management team and subsequently, from January 2014, as Interim CEO. During this first phase, Becker succeeded in completing comprehensive restructuring measures. He will henceforth be supported in managing the company by André-Alexander Steffen, who will be responsible for back office activities and purchasing in his capacity of Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In collaboration with the shareholder Perusa, Schuberth is now setting out on a course for global expansion. In the current fiscal year 2014 alone, investment funds of three million euros have been made available for this purpose. The intention is to broaden the product portfolio and introduce modern and innovative development processes and manufacturing techniques to equip the Magdeburg headquarters for international competition.
Jan-Christian Becker, the new CEO of the Schuberth Group, looks forward to the coming challenges: “At Schuberth, I have found a highly motivated team, with whom I collaborate in a very goal-oriented manner and, above all, in a congenial spirit. All sections of the company possess outstanding expertise in the helmet market. With investments in new products and modern machines, we are now paving the way for developing Schuberth worldwide into the strong brand that it has been in Germany for decades.”
In the initial 24 to 36-month expansion phase, there are plans for a model upgrade of the existing product portfolio, particularly for motorcycle helmets, while entering new motorcycle segments with totally new products at the same time. In addition, the range of colours and graphics is to be broadened in line with varied customer demands in the different international marketplaces. Investments in innovative development processes and modern manufacturing techniques are intended to further optimise the premium quality as well as the overall volume of Schuberth’s premium products. Initially, the focus will be on developing the markets in Europe and in North America. New distribution channels are also being established in Asia
Personal Bio: Jan Christian Becker, CEO
Jan-Christian Becker’s academic qualifications comprise a BA in Industrial Engineering (Stuttgart) and an M.Sc. from Aarhus University (Denmark). As a director at the business consultancy Alvarez & Marsal, he gained comprehensive experience in the areas of finance, restructuring and operations. He last worked for Dynasafe Area Clearance Group GmbH and Mine Tech Ltd. in the role of Interim CFO. Mr Becker, who is originally from Westphalia, and his wife intend to move their main place of residence to the Magdeburg area.
Personal Bio: André-Alexander Steffen, CFO
Professionally, André-Alexander Steffen, originally from the Münsterland, started out in tax consultancy/auditing, and he was last running his own business, providing consultancy to SMEs and international corporations. His competences include interim management, process optimisation as well as corporate recovery and restructuring. Previously, Mr. Steffen had gained comprehensive experience in various internationally active companies in leading commercial and operational positions, last working for Cornelius and then Buderus Feinguss as Interim CFO. Mr Steffen is a passionate motorcyclist and began amateur motorcycle racing at a young age. Even back then, he was a loyal user of Schuberth helmets, demonstrating his trust in the brand.
— From Schuberth NA
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