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Generational Transition at J.D. Neuhaus: A Middle Market Success Story


Lars Linnekogel
11.10.2024
Lars Linnekogel
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Generational Leadership at J.D. Neuhaus: A Legacy of Excellence

For over 275 years, J.D. Neuhaus has stood for quality and innovation in pneumatic and hydraulic lifting equipment. Based in Witten, Germany, the company boasts an 80% export rate, making it a hidden champion of the German Mittelstand. Now in its eighth generation, Gitta Neuhaus-Galladé and Moritz Neuhaus-Galladé are taking the helm, combining tradition with a forward-looking vision.

 

The Eighth Generation Steps Up

At just 14 and 15 years old, Gitta and Moritz were introduced to the principles of succession planning through their family constitution. This document, meticulously developed with external moderation, sets the foundation for smooth generational transitions and sustainable management practices. “We wanted to ensure that each generation could build on a stable foundation,” says Moritz.

A Balanced Leadership Model

Moritz, as the “foreign minister,” oversees global sales and service, while Gitta, the “home minister,” focuses on HR, sustainability, and corporate development. This division of roles is rooted in their individual strengths and evolved naturally over time.

Long-Term Thinking as a Success Driver

A cornerstone of J.D. Neuhaus’s corporate culture is blending tradition with innovation. “You can’t shape the future without understanding the past,” Gitta explains. However, the siblings emphasize the importance of staying agile, incorporating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence into strategic decisions.

Challenges and Opportunities

In recent years, J.D. Neuhaus has navigated global crises with resilience, leveraging investments and diversification. Its versatile product portfolio has allowed the company to tap into emerging markets such as battery production. “Our strength lies in identifying industry cycles early and targeting them strategically,” Moritz notes.

Values That Inspire

The family constitution not only guides the Neuhaus family but also serves as an inspiration for employees. It provides stability and fosters a shared sense of purpose that extends beyond business metrics, cultivating loyalty and pride across the organization.

Looking Ahead

With respect for their legacy and a clear vision for the future, Gitta and Moritz Neuhaus-Galladé are committed to maintaining J.D. Neuhaus as a family-run business and strengthening its position as a hidden champion on the global stage. This strategy lays the groundwork for a thriving ninth generation.

Closing Remarks

The generational transition at J.D. Neuhaus illustrates how tradition and innovation can thrive together. Gitta and Moritz demonstrate that family businesses, when guided by clear values and vision, can remain resilient even in turbulent times.

 

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