The Supervisory Board of Heidelberg has extended the contracts of its CEO Jürgen Otto and its CSO David Schmedding ahead of schedule.
The new terms of office will begin on 1 July 2026. Mr Otto’s contract has been extended until 31 July 2029, subject to an age limit, while Mr Schmedding’s contract will run until 30 June 2031. The company said the decision reflects a focus on continuity and stability in its leadership.
Under the leadership of Mr Otto and Mr Schmedding, Heidelberg said it has broadened its positioning from a print media company to a more diversified technology business, while pursuing developments in both its core print and packaging operations and its wider technology segment.
Martin Sonnenschein, chairman of the Supervisory Board, stated: “The Supervisory Board is convinced of the strategic clarity, effectiveness, and passionate commitment of Jürgen Otto and Dr David Schmedding. Since their appointment, the Executive Board has created financial leeway for Heidelberg, implemented strategic decisions, and increased the benefits for customers. The early contract extension is an expression of our confidence and a clear commitment to continuity and stability for employees and customers worldwide.”
Mr Otto said: “The Supervisory Board’s confidence is both a confirmation and an incentive for me. In recent years, we have strategically repositioned Heidelberg and taken important steps toward becoming a diversified high-tech company that better leverages its potential for existing and new customers. We will continue on this path with consistency, speed, and a clear focus on results.”
Mr Schmedding added: “We have further developed Heidelberg in terms of technology and market orientation and laid the foundation for future growth. I look forward to working with the Executive Board team and our employees to further increase customer value and expand our technological strength.”
