E-scrap recycling tech expert enters new era of family leadership

As Germany’s URT Recycling Technology celebrates its 30th anniversary, the company is setting a new course for the future. Florian Hessler, previously ceo, has taken over the shares of co-founder Thomas Gundersdorf, becoming managing partner and cementing the company’s transition to second-generation family leadership.

Florian will continue to lead the company alongside his father, Peter Hessler, who remains md. Together, they aim to build on three decades of innovation and international growth in the recycling technology sector.

Export strength

Headquartered in Karlstadt in north Bayern, URT has developed into a global leader in process-specific recycling solutions for electronics, fridges and lithium-ion batteries among others. With 80 employees and a 95% export rate, URT is recognised worldwide for its expertise in resource recovery and environmental protection.

Engineering powerhouse

Thomas Gundersdorf, who co-founded URT with Peter Hessler in 1995, played a key role in steering the company from a niche machinery distributor to a full-service engineering powerhouse. His financial expertise, acumen and strategic vision laid the basis for the company’s global success.

Passionate team

The company says leadership handover has been carefully planned and comes at a time of strength and stability. ‘We are positioned better than ever, both operationally and structurally,’ comments Florian Hessler. ‘We’re committed to delivering smart, efficient and advanced recycling solutions with precision engineering, strategic clarity and a passionate team.’

The leadership team remains strong and experienced. Franziska Kühl steps into the role of chief operating officer managing operations, marketing and HR. Jochen Bayer continues as chief financial officer overseeing finance and control while Rainer Hock remains chief technology officer.