Erich Buchner has taken over from Nick Kraguljac of Zell-Metall in Austria. After 42 years Nick Kraguljac stepped down to follow new challenges both in and out of the Plastic Industry.
Before joining Zell-Metall, Erich Buchner worked for FACC, a leading global supplier of advanced components and systems for aircraft. He was engaged in analysis and calculations as well as support for testing in aircraft construction.
Thereafter he was hired by Swarovski and worked in the Technology Division. He oversaw the development of external business with machines and systems, international markets, Marketing, and customer relations. He also had budget responsibility for this division. In 2017 he was promoted to “Talent Leader Swarovski“.
Mr Buchner was hired mid-2019 to replace Nick Kraguljac, who has worked for Zell-Metall for 42 years and held management positions in various companies of the Klepsch-Group. After having successfully implemented SAP he is now focusing on Marketing and Sales, global Business and Product Development as well as streamlining Supply Chains and leading employees successfully in optimization and improvement projects. Overall, he will have full P&L responsibility together with the CFO and COO. Nick Kraguljac commented: “I trust Mr Buchner will handle his duties with care and will be a great replacement for me! Zell-Metall has now a new, capable and motivated management team, which will lead my life’s work into a successful future”.
Mr Buchner has two academic titles in Physics and Construction and graduated at the University of Innsbruck. He holds a black belt in Six-Sigma and has experienced project management skills. In terms of hobbies he is part of his home city’s traditional Folk Music Society and plays several sports like football and skiing.
Erich Buchner is married for five years and has two little daughters.