Heinrich Weiss, long-time CEO of SMS group, dies at 83

SMS group mourns the passing of Heinrich Weiss. The long-time CEO and entrepreneur died on 8 September at the age of 83, surrounded by his family.

Jochen Burg, CEO of SMS group, said that “Heinrich Weiss was a true role model. An extraordinary entrepreneur, he transformed a mid-sized Siegerland company into a global market leader in machine and plant engineering for the steel industry. Our thoughts are with his family, and he will be greatly missed.”

Johannes Frauendörfer, chairman of the Weiss Family Foundation, called him “a person of clarity, integrity, and passion,” adding that “his life's work is inextricably linked to SMS. As the Foundation Board, we will carry forward his legacy responsibly, with future generations in mind.”

His son Georg Weiss, who now sits on the board of the foundation, stated that “my father dedicated his life to the company. For our family, it is a matter of great importance to preserve his legacy and to lead SMS into the future in his spirit.”

Heinrich Weiss joined the family business in 1968 after studying engineering in Munich, and became chairman of the managing board in 1971. Under his leadership, the former Siemag AG grew from a regional forge into an international player. Key milestones included the 1973 merger with Schloemann, the 1999 acquisition of Mannesmann Demag, and the 2021 integration of Luxembourg-based Paul Wurth. Until 2024, Weiss chaired the family foundation and prepared the generational transition.

Beyond SMS, Weiss held numerous economic and political roles. He chaired the CDU Economic Council (1983–88), served as BDI president (1991–92), and led the China working group of the Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business. He also sat on the supervisory boards of Deutsche Bahn, Commerzbank, Bertelsmann, and Bombardier.

Source and Photo: SMS Group