A new generation takes the helm at febi bilstein

After 30 years as managing director, Dieter Siekermann’s well-earned retirement was celebrated with a gala event on 1st May that saw many emotional and poignant moments.

Siekermann follows in the steps of his long-term managing partner Rolf Bilstein who two years previously also moved from the operational side of the business to the company’s advisory board. His son Jan Siekermann, who has been working in the company since 1.1.2009, will be taking his place.

As of this day, the succession by a new generation is complete. Two years ago Karsten Schüßler-Bilstein (39) followed his father-in-law Rolf Bilstein and now with Jan Siekermann (31), the new generation has taken overall control of the company.

The historical Wuppertal town hall provided a fitting backdrop for the ceremony, which was attended by more than 300 guests. The host for the evening was Tagesschau (a German public service TV news programme) main newsreader, Jan Hofer, who was both entertaining and humorous.

Hofer was also moderator for a panel discussion where Siekermann’s long-standing associates had their say and got quite a few laughs from the guests with countless anecdotes.

Plenty of attention was devoted to Siekermann’s career highlights too. For instance he had always promoted the development of the company's international subsidiaries. Another highlight was without a doubt the design and construction of the new logistics centre in Ennepetal, with which febi bilstein has secured further opportunities for its future growth.

“After the game is before the game”: using this quote from Sepp Herberger (former player and manager for the national football team) in his farewell speech, Siekermann pointed out that plenty of exciting work still lies ahead. At febi bilstein, this will involve sitting on the advisory board, and outside his previous sphere of activity, working for the Dr. Hella und Dieter Siekermann Stiftung foundation, which he and his wife set up in order to promote international understanding and peace studies.

Even though the gala evening was to celebrate his retirement, at 65, Siekermann is a long way off from retiring.

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