New management at Schwan-STABILO

Internationally successful family-owned company Schwan-STABILO, with its three independent divisions of writing instruments, cosmetics and outdoor, is about to undergo a change of management. With an annual turnover of around 800 million euros and over 5,200 employees at 38 locations worldwide, the company is setting a strong course for the future. After almost three decades in various management roles, Sebastian Schwanhäußer (61) will step down from his operational responsibilities as CEO at the end of the current financial year and move to the head of the company‘s Advisory Board on 1 July 2025.

He will be succeeded as Group CEO of Schwan-STABILO by Michele Molon (48) on 1 October 2025. During the transition, CFO Anke Buttler will take over the operational management of the Group. According to a company statement, this generational change was prepared “early and with foresight – in the firm conviction that early changes in family businesses are a sign of strength and sustainability, especially in an increasingly dynamic and uncertain environment.“

Michele Molon is an Italian citizen and has more than 25 years of international management experience in family businesses and listed companies. He has held various global leadership roles at Swarovski since 2010 and has been a member of the Executive Committee since 2017. Most recently, he held the position of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Swarovski International. In this role, he led the company’s global commercial platform – including retail, e-commerce, wholesale and B2B components business. He was also responsible for the local functions in the areas of marketing, human resources, finance, growth platforms and the mobility business. Sebastian Schwanhäußer is very confident about his successor: “Michele Molon is an excellent fit for Schwan-STABILO. He has international experience, a deep understanding of family businesses and a close familiarity with brands and markets. His flair for innovation and creativity gives him exactly the profile we need for the further development of the Group. His Italian background is also a welcome addition to our internationally oriented management team.“

Sebastian Schwanhäußer, representing the fifth generation of the family, initiated the generational change at Schwan-STABILO after almost three decades in management positions, because he is convinced: “A generational change is a sensitive moment – especially after many years of consistency. We planned this step at an early stage and prepared for it regardless of external factors. In my view, an early change is better than one that comes too late. With our decision, we are creating space for fresh impetus and the necessary rejuvenation. At the same time, we are also prioritising a clear division of roles: operational responsibility is being handed over to new forces. The family will remain on board for the long term. As a family business, we think in terms of generations, not years. This is a good step into the future with a view to the following generations.“ Commenting on his future role in the company, Sebastian Schwanhäußer says: “For me, this step primarily means changing my perspective. I am very grateful for the trust shown in me when I was elected Chairman of the Advisory Board and look forward to my new role as a sounding board for the Group and representative of the owning family. I would like to express my sincere thanks to everyone who has accompanied me on my journey over the past few years – the more than 5,000 employees worldwide, my colleagues and our shareholders. Your contribution has made many things possible and has significantly shaped this time.“
www.schwan-stabilo.com

Image: Michele Molon (right) succeeds Sebastian Schwanhäußer as CEO at Schwan-STABILO.