On August 1, 2025, German machine and plant manufacturer Dieffenbacher appointed Stefan Zipf, head of the wood business unit, to the company’s management board. Until March 1, 2026, Stefan Zipf will also transition into the role of chief technical officer (CTO) while remaining head of the wood business unit.

Lothar Fischer (left) and Stefan Zipf (right)

Lothar Fischer, who has served as CTO since March 2018, will continue at Dieffenbacher on a project and advisory basis from March 1, 2026. “Mr Fischer has achieved a lot in his tenure as CTO. He has strengthened our supply chains and further expanded our global production network,” says Dieffenbacher CEO Christian Dieffenbacher. “We thank Mr Fischer for his commitment and tireless efforts over the past 8 years and look forward to our continued collaboration.”

New CTO Stefan Zipf has worked at Dieffenbacher for 28 years. During this time, he has held positions ranging from dual mechanical engineering student to head of the wood business unit, steadily taking on more responsibility. “Adding Mr Zipf to the management board furthers the planned, smooth generational change in our company’s leadership,” says Christian Dieffenbacher. “On behalf of the entire Dieffenbacher team, I wish Mr Zipf every success in his new role and look forward to the momentum he will bring to the further development of our company.”