Philip Harting, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the HARTING Technology Group, has been appointed to the Main Board of the Association of German Machinery and Equipment Manufacturers (VDMA). The appointment strengthens the association’s leadership at a time when Germany’s engineering and manufacturing sector is navigating significant economic and structural changes.
As a member of the VDMA Main Board, Harting will contribute his industry experience to help shape policies and initiatives that support the long-term competitiveness of mechanical and plant engineering across Germany and Europe. His appointment reflects the industry’s emphasis on collaboration between technology providers, equipment manufacturers and policymakers to address emerging market opportunities and challenges.
Commenting on the appointment, Philip Harting said mechanical engineering has long been one of the HARTING Technology Group’s most important markets, making it a natural step for him to actively represent the interests of the sector. He noted that the industry continues to play a critical role in driving innovation, industrial productivity and technological advancement across Europe.
Mr Harting joins the VDMA Main Board during a period of transition for Germany’s manufacturing economy. Earlier this month, the VDMA revised its growth outlook for the German mechanical engineering industry, projecting zero growth for 2026. Despite near-term economic pressures, the association continues to express confidence in the sector’s long-term prospects, citing sustained global demand for advanced machinery, industrial automation systems and high-value engineering solutions.
According to Mr Harting, the industry is facing multiple challenges that require coordinated action. Rising geopolitical tensions, increasingly protectionist trade policies and ongoing disruptions to international supply chains continue to affect production planning, order inflows and delivery schedules. At the same time, manufacturers are accelerating investments in digital technologies, automation and sustainable production methods to remain globally competitive.
He said the pace of transformation across Germany’s traditional industrial base has accelerated considerably, making it essential for companies and industry organisations to work together in shaping future policies and strengthening Europe’s industrial position. Harting added that he looks forward to contributing to this process through both his leadership at the HARTING Technology Group and his new responsibilities within the VDMA.
The VDMA is the largest industry association representing machinery and equipment manufacturers in Germany and Europe, with around 3,500 member companies. Across the European Union, the mechanical engineering sector is the region’s largest industrial employer, providing jobs to approximately 3.1 million people. In 2025, machinery exports from the industry reached around €593 billion, with German manufacturers accounting for more than one-third of the total export value.
Beyond representing industry interests, the VDMA plays a central role in advancing research, technological innovation, digital transformation and sustainability initiatives. These priorities are expected to shape the future competitiveness of European manufacturing while supporting industrial growth, resilient supply chains and continued global leadership in engineering and advanced manufacturing technologies.
