Interview with Alexandra Mebus, Member of the Management Board and Chief Human Resources Officer at Zeppelin GmbH

MEBUS The current focus is on integrating the PEPP Group, which sells and services Caterpillar products in Norway and the Netherlands, as well as the associated transformation phase. Through this acquisition, Zeppelin is strengthening its position as a leading global Caterpillar partner by taking over responsibility for the sales and service of Caterpillar products in Norway and the Netherlands. The focus is on international realignment, expanding a future-proof portfolio, and realigning and adaptating our organizational structure. A central "Transformation Office" manages these processes company-wide. The goal is to leverage synergies, further strengthen our customer focus, and secure sustainable growth. 

MEBUS We pay particular attention to global developments, such as decarbonization, the growing importance of sustainable energy and drive solutions, and geopolitical changes. Technologically, we focus on progress in digitalization, automation, and networked machine solutions, especially in construction and rental solutions. From a social perspective, securing skilled workers, e.g. through flexible working models, in the changing world of work is becoming increasingly important. These factors influence not only markets, but also customer needs, business models, and investment decisions. 

MEBUS At the Zeppelin Group, modern leadership is an integrative and strategic approach that considers both the technological complexity of our business and the international nature of our organization. We define leadership as actively shaping change based on a clear, value-oriented corporate culture - characterized by responsibility, respect, integrity, and excellence. Particularly in the context of our merger with the PEPP Group, our focus is on leadership at eye level, aiming to bring together the best of both worlds. Our managers must guide change processes, empower employees, and promote an atmosphere of cooperation across national and divisional boundaries. 

MEBUS From the Group's perspective, sustainable changes in employment and HR strategy are essential in order to master future challenges. Successful integration of international locations requires increased talent mobility, including international career opportunities and intercultural cooperation. We are also focusing more on diversity and inclusion, as demonstrated by company-wide programs such as "Z COLOURFUL". To compete for qualified specialists, it is also necessary to offer modern working conditions, tailored training opportunities, and holistic health and benefits programs. 

MEBUS Looking ahead to 2030, the Group is pursuing an ambitious yet clearly defined vision. By then, Zeppelin should have developed into the world's leading sales and service organization for Caterpillar products - boasting a stable, efficient, and internationally networked corporate structure. At the same time, the organization should stand out with a sustainable portfolio, robust business units, and a firmly established culture of values and leadership. We particularly value the integration of the PEPP Group being not only economically successful but also culturally understood as a joint development step. By 2030, the Group aims to be recognized as a future-oriented company that proactively embraces technological change, lives social responsibility, and is globally valued as a reliable partner.