News

One of Europe’s biggest producers of motorhomes and caravans, Erwin Hymer Group (EHG), has announced changes to its executive management team that will see Alexander Leopold replace Martin Brandt as the company’s CEO. Martin, who will continue to support EHG in a non-executive role, has decided to step down as CEO to devote more time to his family and private life. Alexander Leopold is currently chairman of the management board at EHG brand Dethleffs and will take over as CEO from 1 July 2022. Alexander’s position at Dethleffs will be assumed by Bernhard Kibler, head of sales operations international at EHG.

Bob Martin, president and CEO of EHG’s owner Thor Industries, said: “We are very proud that as part of our succession process, we have been able to identify two highly experienced and respected leaders from within EHG. It not only speaks for the quality of the management teams throughout the Erwin Hymer Group but also ensures a smooth transition. On behalf of Thor Industries and the Supervisory Board of Erwin Hymer Group, I want to thank Martin Brandt for his commitment and tireless efforts over the past seven years leading the Erwin Hymer Group. At the same time, I want to welcome Alexander Leopold and Bernhard Kibler to their new positions and wish them every success as they assume their new responsibilities. Alexander Leopold and Bernhard Kibler not only know the caravan industry, consumer behaviour and trends, but also the Erwin Hymer Group and its brands. We look forward to working with them to further strengthen THOR and the Erwin Hymer Group as the caravan industry leader in Europe.”

Under Martin Brandt’s leadership, EHG has undergone impressive growth and saw its sales leap from around €1.4 billion in 2015 to an all-time high of €2.7 billion in the 2021/22 fiscal year. In this period of time, he led the transformation of the former family business into a truly international player. He also had a pivotal role in Thor Industries’ acquisition of the Erwin Hymer Group, forming the world’s leading manufacturer of leisure vehicles.

Incoming CEO Alexander Leopold enjoyed a successful period at leisure vehicle brand Dethleffs, more than doubling its sales and also successfully launching the EHG’s first urban vehicle brand in Crosscamp.