HKM restructures management for Salzgitter integration and transformation process

As part of the changes, Andreas Betzler assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Spokesman of the Management Board as of July 10, 2026. Betzler will be responsible for advancing HKM’s integration into the Salzgitter Group and steering the company’s strategic development.

During the integration process, La-Toya Müller will serve as Head of Post-Merger Integration. Müller will oversee HKM’s organizational and cultural integration into the Salzgitter Group.

Heiko von Hagen to oversee production

As part of the management changes, Dr. Heiko von Hagen has been appointed Managing Director responsible for Production. Previously Head of Supply Chain Management at Salzgitter AG Holding, von Hagen was most recently responsible for the distribution of slabs produced by HKM within the group.

Martin Zappe, Program Manager of the SALCOS program, will take on the role of Managing Director responsible for HKM’s sustainability and new construction projects. Zappe is expected to contribute to the next stages of HKM’s electric arc furnace project in Duisburg, drawing on his experience in planning and implementing Salzgitter AG’s SALCOS transformation program.

Carsten Laakmann, who currently serves as Director of Industrial Relations and Managing Director of Human Resources, will remain in his position. Dr. Peter Biele, previously Managing Director of Technology at HKM, will leave the company.

HKM to focus on transformation of steel production

Salzgitter Group CEO Gunnar Groebler said the new management structure will create the conditions needed to address the challenges arising from the transformation of the steel industry and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

HKM Management Board Spokesman Andreas Betzler also said the new organizational structure brings together the expertise required for the company’s key future tasks. According to Betzler, strengthening HKM’s economic and technological sustainability, advancing its integration into the Salzgitter Group and establishing a roadmap for the transformation of steel production are among the company’s priorities.