Dr. Thomas Ludwig

In his presentation "The importance of distribution in the value chain using the example of steel", Dr. Thomas Ludwig shows how a consistent value orientation works for an international group.

The Klöckner & Co. Group has been successful on the market for 100 years and generated annual sales of around €5 billion in 2005 with almost 10,000 employees. Its core business is the local, regional and international distribution of steel and metal products. The company serves the key sectors of automotive, building construction and civil engineering, aircraft and shipbuilding, plant construction, household appliances and furniture. Klöckner & Co. not only supplies its customers, but also sees itself as a competent partner for problem solving: from "multi metal distribution" as a materials trader to "multi metal solution" as a solution and value-added partner.

Mr. Dr. Ludwig shows in his presentation which methods and instruments Klöckner & Co. uses to increase value for its customers. Specifically, the focus is on transferring non-core business processes to Klöckner & Co in order to utilize existing resources such as personnel, space, time and capital more effectively. Furthermore, additional value enhancement potential is tapped through optimized availability, product and processing quality, on-time delivery and consistent cost management.

Dr. Thomas Ludwig began his career at the former Klöckner-Werke AG in 1977 after studying mathematics and business administration in Göttingen, Freiburg, Glasgow and Bonn and completing his doctorate in business administration. After holding various management positions, Dr. Ludwig became a member of the Management Board of Klöckner & Co Alt in 1991 with responsibility for the Raw Materials, Environmental Technology and Mobile Buildings divisions. In November 2003, Dr. Ludwig was appointed Chairman of the Management Board of Klöckner & Co Alt. Since April 2005, Dr. Ludwig has been Chairman of the Management Board of Klöckner & Co GmbH. Dr. Ludwig is Chairman of the Management Board of Klöckner & Co AG.

Status: Beginning of 2007