In a defining moment for one of the world’s most respected names in welding and automation technology, the CLOOS Group has announced a significant leadership transition that positions the company for continued innovation and global expansion. After 25 years of dedicated service and transformational leadership, Stephan Pittner has retired as Chief Executive Officer, handing the reins to a new generation of executives poised to steer the organization into its next era of growth.
Pittner’s tenure was marked by strategic investments, record-setting growth, and an unwavering commitment to quality and customer focus. Under his guidance, the Haiger-based engineering specialist solidified its footprint in key global markets, expanded production capacity, and reinforced its reputation as a trusted partner for welding and robotic automation solutions across diverse industries.
New Leadership, Continued Vision:-
The shareholders of ESTUN the CLOOS Group’s majority owners have appointed Alex Waser as the new Chief Executive Officer. With nearly 12 years of CEO experience at Bystronic and multiple board roles in the manufacturing technology sector, Waser brings a deep well of global leadership experience and a strategic eye for innovation. His appointment reflects CLOOS’s commitment to scaling its business internationally while preserving its legacy of engineering excellence.
In his first official statement as CEO, Waser shared his enthusiasm for the journey ahead: “I am honored by the trust placed in me and look forward to shaping the next chapter of the CLOOS Group together with the team.” His strategy centers on strengthening global growth initiatives, tapping emerging markets, and enhancing integrated solutions for welding, automation and software systems.
Also stepping into a newly elevated role is Lei Guan CLOOS’s first global Chief Financial Officer. With more than 18 years of international financial leadership and a background working across consulting and audit environments, Guan adds robust expertise in cross-border operations and financial strategy. As a native Chinese speaker with extensive experience in global markets, he is expected to enhance financial transparency and deepen synergies across the company’s worldwide operations.
A Legacy of Innovation and Global Impact:-
Founded in 1919, the CLOOS Group has evolved from a regional welding specialist to a global technology leader in welding, robotic automation, and digital solutions. Today, the company employs over 1,000 professionals and operates ten production sites with more than 60 sales and service centers spanning North and South America, Asia, Europe, and Australia. CLOOS’s customers include prominent players in the automotive, commercial vehicle, agricultural machinery, energy, and railway sectors all relying on its advanced systems to maximize productivity and efficiency in demanding manufacturing environments.
The leadership change arrives at a moment of continued momentum for the group. Despite global economic challenges in recent years, including supply bottlenecks and skilled-labor shortages affecting the broader engineering sector, CLOOS has maintained a growth trajectory through innovation, strategic investment, and a strong global customer base.
Looking Ahead
As the company embraces this next chapter, the new executive team’s mandate is clear: sustain growth, deepen global reach, and elevate CLOOS’s technological edge in the age of smart manufacturing. With seasoned leadership and a global vision, the CLOOS Group is well positioned to build on its century-plus legacy while shaping the future of welding and automation on a global scale.
For more info:
www.cloos-group.com
