Ralph Köster

Mr. Ralph Köster, Chairman of the Management Board of BARTEC GmbH will speak on the topic of "Lean and healthy? Success factors for profitable growth" from the perspective of a company that is one of the world's leading suppliers in the field of safety technology.

Over the last 30 years, BARTEC GmbH has developed from an engineering office into one of the world's largest suppliers of explosion-protected components, systems and installations. Safety technology is vital wherever highly explosive substances such as oils or gases are handled. Markets include the chemical industry, refineries and mining. The range of products offered extends from automation technology components, measuring systems and motors to education and training of personnel. BARTEC GmbH is represented worldwide at 7 production sites with a total of 1,300 employees. In 2006, the company generated a turnover of 170 million euros.

In his presentation at the 15th Munich Management Colloquium, Mr Köster will talk about internationalization in medium-sized companies. In particular, he will explain the success factors of a "hidden champion". These are usually small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that can only achieve market leadership in niche markets. Due to his previous professional experience in the SME sector, Mr. Köster will be able to provide very interesting insights.

Ralph Köster was born on 27.03.1958 in Minden. After graduating from high school, he completed an apprenticeship as a wholesale and foreign trade merchant. He then studied business administration at the University of Münster, majoring in marketing and international finance.

From 1986 to 1991, he worked for an international computer technology group, where he was ultimately Head of Marketing and Sales. In the years up to 1996, he was a member of the management board of an international machine and plant construction group in the printing industry. From 1996 to 2004, he was Chairman of the Management Board and a member of the Group Management Board of a mechanical engineering group for CNC machining centers and production lines. Since August 2004, he has been Chairman of the Management Board of BARTEC GmbH.

Status: Beginning of 2008