The Supervisory Board of MAX Automation SE has appointed Oliver Jaster as Managing Director and CEO, effective 1 April 2026. This leadership change comes as Dr. Ralf Guckert steps down from both the Managing Directorate and the Supervisory Board effective 31 March 2026, though he will remain within the MAX Automation Group as Chairman of the Management Board of Vecoplan AG, a subsidiary of MAX Automation SE.
Oliver Jaster brings significant institutional knowledge to the role, having been a member of the Supervisory Board of MAX Automation SE since 2013, with a brief interruption, most recently serving as Deputy Chairman. He indirectly holds approximately 66% of the Company's shares, giving him substantial ownership stake and alignment with shareholder interests. The Supervisory Board expressed confidence that Jaster's in-depth knowledge of the Group and his close involvement with day-to-day operations – particularly as Chairman of the Presidential Committee – positions him ideally to lead MAX Automation SE through its current phase.
This appointment represents a strategic leadership transition during what the company describes as a critical period. The interim nature of Jaster's appointment indicates the Supervisory Board is working on a long-term succession solution while ensuring continuity in leadership. The company's focus on managing and acquiring investments in growth and high cash flow companies operating in niche markets makes stable leadership particularly important for maintaining strategic direction.
MAX Automation SE, which has been listed in the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since 2015, operates across various end industries including automotive, electronics, recycling, raw materials processing, packaging, and medical technology. The leadership change comes as the company continues to navigate its portfolio management strategy. More information about the company can be found at https://www.maxautomation.com.
The transition maintains institutional knowledge within the organization while bringing fresh leadership perspective. Dr. Guckert's continued role at Vecoplan AG ensures his expertise remains available to the broader MAX Automation Group. This leadership realignment suggests the company is positioning itself for strategic decisions in its current operational phase, with the interim appointment allowing for careful consideration of long-term leadership needs while maintaining operational stability.
