"We would like to thank Helmut Gries for his successful work over the past 25 years and wish him all the best for the future," says Dirk Engel, CEO of the gwk parent company technotrans SE. "Without the successful work of Mr Gries, gwk would not be where it is today." Helmut Gries will continue to advise the company after his departure for a transitional period.
"I am very grateful to everyone involved that my wish to have my employment contract terminated at the end of the year has been granted," explains Gries. The 64-year-old had already approached the shareholders a few months ago with the desire to retire. The aeronautical engineer started his career at gwk in 1994 as sales manager for temperature control technology. Five years later he was promoted to Managing Director.
The successor to Helmut Gries comes from the company. Nicolai Küls has been with gwk since 2006, most recently as Head of Sales and Marketing. "I am looking forward to the new challenge and the upcoming tasks," says Küls. The 42-year-old industrial engineer will take up his position at the turn of the year. He is married and has three children.
Nicolai Küls will focus on sales and marketing. Together with Dr. Michael Zaun, Managing Director Technology and Production, gwk will continue to be managed by a dual management team.
"Mr. Küls is a valued colleague with many years of experience and extensive entrepreneurial competence. He will continue to drive the positive development of our company", says Dr. Michael Zaun.