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HDSL appoints new chief executive

09/02/2026
HDSL appoints new chief executive
The Federal Association of the Shoe and Leather Goods Industry (HDSL) has named Torben Schütz (pictured left) as its new chief executive officer, effective February 1, 2026. He succeeds Manfred Junkert, who is leaving after 19 years in the role.

Since January 1, 2026, Mr Schütz has also served as managing director of the German Shoe Institute (DSI) and cads (Cooperation for Secured Defined Standards in Shoe and Leather Goods Products). HDSL chairman Carl-August Seibel said the appointment sets "the course for a successful future."

Mr Schütz has longstanding ties to HDSL, having worked as a consultant for statistics, education, and digitisation from 2017 to 2022 and as deputy managing director from February 2025. He also advised companies in the chemical-pharmaceutical sector on energy, climate, and transformation issues between 2022 and 2024.

In his new role, Mr Schütz aims to enhance member support and networking, with a focus on circular economy initiatives, industry-trade partnerships, and developing strategies for domestic and international markets.


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