Early Life
Stefan Wirtgen, along with his brother Jürgen, inherited the family fortune from their father, Reinhard Wirtgen, the founder of the Wirtgen Group. Reinhard Wirtgen started a hauling business in 1961, which evolved into a leading construction equipment manufacturer. The brothers took over management in 1997, continuing their father's vision and expanding the company.
Rise to Success
The Wirtgen Group became a global leader in road construction and maintenance machinery. Under Stefan and Jürgen's leadership, the company expanded its product lines and global presence. A pivotal moment came in 2017 when the Wirtgen Group was sold to John Deere for $5.2 billion.
Key Business Strategies
After the sale, the Wirtgen brothers established Wirtgen Invest, a family office focused on diversifying their investments. This investment firm has made numerous passive investments in various sectors, including energy, real estate, healthcare, consumer goods, and finance, to manage the family's wealth effectively.
Philanthropy
Stefan Wirtgen is involved in philanthropy through the Jürgen Wirtgen Stiftung and Stefan Wirtgen Stiftung, supporting local non-profit projects and organizations. The foundations support science, research, youth and elderly assistance, education, public health, arts, nature conservation, sports, and civic engagement.