Prudent Pilgrimage of Prolonged Presidency Ends at PinnacleAfter a decade of steering Salzgitter AG’s Supervisory Board, Heinz-Gerhard Wente has concluded his tenure. At 74, Wente steps aside with a legacy shaped by strategic foresight, meticulous governance, and unwavering commitment. His decision to resign takes effect on October 4, 2025, marking the end of an era that saw the steel titan undergo significant evolution in its industrial philosophy.

Sagacious Stewardship Spurs Steel Sector ShiftWente’s chairmanship was not merely symbolic. He led the Supervisory Board through turbulent economic phases, technological upheavals, and industry-wide environmental mandates. His leadership was instrumental in Salzgitter’s pivot towards low-carbon steel production, a move heralded as progressive and prescient by industry experts. The Board credits him for laying the foundation for sustainable transformation during his term.

Transformative Tenure Tempered by Tenacity & TactDescribed as a man of prudence and principle, Wente maintained calm and control even during corporate conundrums. He guided the Board through periods of uncertainty and global steel volatility, ensuring that Salzgitter maintained its standing not only as a German industrial leader but as a European steel stalwart. His leadership was marked by collaborative spirit and unwavering responsibility.

Valedictory Veneration by Supervisory & Executive VoicesThe Supervisory Board and Executive Board of Salzgitter AG issued a joint expression of gratitude, highlighting Wente’s "trust-based, unwavering collaboration" and "decisive stimulus" in Board matters. They praised his leadership during strategic crossroads and his keen role in shaping the vision for a greener steel future. His sense of duty, they emphasized, elevated the Board’s function during both stable and strenuous times.

Carbon-Conscious Compass Crafted under Chairman’s CommandWente’s greatest legacy may lie in his quiet yet firm backing of Salzgitter’s transformation towards environmentally conscious manufacturing. Under his oversight, the company accelerated its decarbonisation efforts, invested in hydrogen-based processes, and positioned itself as a forerunner in Europe’s green steel ambitions. He proved that tradition and transformation could harmoniously coexist under vigilant leadership.

Succession Speculations Stir Strategic SpeculationFollowing Wente’s departure, the Nomination Committee of the Supervisory Board has commenced discussions about his successor. While no name has been officially floated, insiders suggest the new appointee will likely continue the decarbonisation journey Wente began. The company remains committed to its strategic goals and seeks a leader of equal calibre to carry forward the momentum.

Retirement Rooted in Reflection, not RetreatWente’s resignation, though formalised now, had been long-considered, aligning with his desire to pass the baton at a moment of relative organisational strength. His decision is seen not as an exit from relevance, but as a dignified handover reflecting his values, timely change, enduring stability, and institutional continuity. Wente leaves not under duress but in dignity.

Legacy Laden in Leadership & Low-Carbon LeaningsAs Salzgitter AG continues its ambitious evolution, Wente’s influence will remain etched in its strategic DNA. His departure signals both an end and a beginning, a finale to a formidable tenure and the dawn of a fresh chapter in one of Germany’s most storied industrial enterprises. The foundation he leaves behind is robust, renewable-focused, and resolutely forward-looking.

Key Takeaways:

• Heinz-Gerhard Wente has officially stepped down from his role as Chairman of Salzgitter AG’s Supervisory Board, ending a 10-year tenure

• Wente played a vital role in steering the company’s transformation toward low-carbon steel production using hydrogen technologies

• The Supervisory Board is currently deliberating over his successor to ensure continuity in strategic leadership