Paul Gauselmann steps down as Merkur Chairman after 67 years

Sudhanshu Ranjan September 30, 2024

SiGMA news

Paul Gauselmann steps down as Merkur Chairman after 67 years

Merkur Group has announced that its founder, Paul Gauselmann (pictured above on right), will officially step down as chairman on 1 October 2024. After an extraordinary 67-year tenure, Gauselmann leaves behind a legacy of innovation and international success, transforming a small, part-time venture into a global gaming powerhouse.

Decision to step down

After more than six decades at the helm, Paul Gauselmann’s decision is seen as a strategic move to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. At 89 years old, Gauselmann has opted to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders, ensuring that Merkur continues to thrive while embracing fresh ideas and strategies for the future.

Gauselmann expressed, “I have consistently devoted my energy to the company’s welfare, and at the same time to the benefit of our approximately 15,000 employees. Now the time has come to entrust my life’s work to the younger generation.”

In 1957, Paul Gauselmann founded Merkur Group with a vision to revolutionise the gaming industry. What began as a small operation quickly grew under his leadership into a multi-billion-dollar company. Over the years, Gauselmann introduced a range of groundbreaking products, setting new standards for entertainment technology. Today, Merkur Group boasts annual revenues of approximately $4.4 billion and operates on a global scale.

New appointments

Lars Felderhoff will step into the role of Chairman of the Management Board. With a strong background in finance and commercial operations, Felderhoff brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He began his journey with Merkur in 2011 as the Commercial Director of adp Merkur, where he oversaw the commercial operations of over 40 companies within the group.

Felderhoff’s leadership will be supported by two seasoned executives, Jürgen Stühmeyer, who is responsible for sales, and Manfred Stoffers, who oversees marketing and political affairs. Together, they will form a strong management team, ensuring that Merkur remains at the forefront of the gaming industry.

Gauselmann expressed his confidence in the new leadership team, stating, “I am delighted that this trio is taking over the helm. They are outstanding leaders with a deep understanding of the company.”

Another key appointment is that of Christian Reinhard, who recently joined the management board as the member responsible for technology and development. Reinhard, who succeeds Werner Kurt Schroer, brings over 20 years of experience in automotive electronics development.

Michael Gauselmann, the son of Paul Gauselmann, will take over as Chairman of the Supervisory Board and will also succeed his father as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Gauselmann Family Foundation. Having been with the group since 1982, Michael has been instrumental in the company’s international expansion, particularly through the establishment of the subsidiary Atronic in 1993.

Future of Merkur group

Under its new leadership, the Merkur Group is well-positioned to continue its legacy of innovation and success. The company’s focus on expanding its digital footprint, enhancing its product offerings, and entering new markets will be key priorities in the coming years.

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