The Handtmann case examines the co-CEO leadership model in the context of family business. Based on interviews with three key executives – the co-CEOs and the president of the advisory board – the case focuses on how Handtmann handled the leadership transition to the next generation. Starting with a history of the five generations at the head of Handtmann, Case A offers a window into the succession process of a well-established European family business. The case analyzes the potential risks and rewards of appointing co-CEOs in a privately held family business. From a governance perspective, the case assesses how organizational culture, governance systems and ownership structures contribute to creating a conducive environment for co-CEOs to thrive. Established in 1873 as a brass foundry, Handtmann has evolved into a global technology company that employs 4,300 people, with 2,700 based at its headquarters in Biberach an der Riss, Germany. Handtmann offers highly specialized production and services to clients in the automotive industry, the chemical and pharmaceutical industry, among others. It is also the world leader in the manufacture of fillings and portioning systems for the food industry and a leading supplier of fittings and process systems for the beverage industry. More recently, the Group has also ventured into the development of electronic systems. The business has remained under the stewardship of the Handtmann founding family for 150 years.
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
As companies jostle for sustainability leadership, these competitive rivalries are proving unexpectedly powerful in accelerating environmental action, while strategic collaborations can amplify the impact.
AI and sustainability combine in a business novel exploring twin transformation as the new path to resilience and relevance.
Discover 5 effective ways to kick the habit of micromanaging and foster greater trust, autonomy, and productivity in your team.
Have you ever wondered why AI and sustainability seem so promising, yet so often fail to take off inside traditional companies? Or why, despite their potential synergy, AI and sustainability are so rarely pursued together? Too often, companies tre...
Luxury e-commerce is dead as brands embrace unified commerce, personalization, and storytelling to redefine the digital luxury experience.
Support executive recovery with these 3 strategies to address burnout and help leaders return to peak performance.
Learn how to improve decision-making in uncertainty with four practical ways to enhance intuitive intelligence.
Trump’s unconventional negotiation strategy reveals how game theory in negotiations can shape power, commitment, and outcomes before talks begin.
Discover what AI-first leadership really looks like and how executives can shift strategy, control, and influence to lead in the AI era.
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications
Research Information & Knowledge Hub for additional information on IMD publications