Ziehl-Abegg has announced with deep sorrow the passing of entrepreneur and former Supervisory Board Chairman Uwe Ziehl, who died on June 6, 2026, at the age of 79. His passing marks the end of an era for the family-owned company, where he played a pivotal role in shaping its growth, innovation strategy, and long-term independence over several decades.
A grandson of company founder Emil Ziehl, Uwe Ziehl maintained a lifelong connection with the business and the region in which it developed. Throughout his career, he combined engineering expertise with entrepreneurial vision, helping transform Ziehl-Abegg into a globally recognized technology company specializing in ventilation systems, electric motors, and drive technologies.
After completing his engineering studies, Uwe Ziehl established Ziehl Industrie-Elektronik GmbH in Schwäbisch Hall in 1967. Over the following years, he became one of the most influential figures within the broader Ziehl-Abegg organization, contributing significantly to its strategic development and international expansion.
One of his most important achievements was consolidating the family’s ownership interests under a unified holding structure. This decision strengthened the company’s long-term stability and enabled sustained investment in research, product development, manufacturing, and global expansion while preserving its identity as an independent family-owned enterprise.
From 2005 until 2020, Uwe Ziehl served as Chairman of the Supervisory Board, guiding the company through a period of technological advancement and international growth. His leadership was characterized by a strong commitment to innovation, engineering excellence, quality manufacturing, and long-term value creation.
Under his guidance, Ziehl-Abegg expanded its manufacturing capabilities, including investments in in-house plastics production and the further development of its aluminium foundry operations. These initiatives strengthened the company’s vertical integration strategy and helped establish a manufacturing foundation that continues to support its global competitiveness.
Joachim Ley, Chief Executive Officer of Ziehl-Abegg, described Uwe Ziehl as a visionary leader whose technical knowledge and entrepreneurial foresight had a lasting impact on the company’s success. He noted that generations of employees, customers, and partners benefited from his dedication and leadership.
In 2021, Uwe Ziehl completed a carefully planned leadership transition by handing responsibilities to the next generation. His son, Dennis Ziehl, assumed the role of Supervisory Board Chairman, ensuring continuity of family stewardship. Today, Ziehl-Abegg operates in more than 100 countries and employs thousands of people worldwide. The company’s continued success stands as a lasting testament to Uwe Ziehl’s commitment to innovation, independence, and sustainable growth.
