A generational change in the leadership of our Group: effective 1 August, Georg Ebner will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Athesia AG, which today comprises a total of 31 companies. He succeeds Michl Ebner, who has played a decisive role in shaping the development of the Group since 1 January 1995 as Director, Chief Executive Officer and President.
Georg Ebner appointed CEO
This marks the beginning of a new chapter in Athesia’s corporate history. The generational transition stands for continuity and stability, while also representing a clear commitment to ongoing development and progress. It combines the values of a long-established company with the ambition to continue acting responsibly and with a forward-looking vision.
In his new role as CEO, Georg Ebner will continue to be supported by Christian Unterhofer (Chief Financial Officer, CFO) and Peter Stürz (Chief Operating Officer, COO) within the Holding Management team. Michl Ebner will remain closely involved with the Group. In his capacity as Chairman of the Boards of Directors, he will continue to contribute his many years of experience and extensive expertise.
Pictured: Georg Ebner (left) and Michl Ebner
Michl Ebner remains Chairman
The timing of this leadership transition carries particular symbolic significance: exactly 55 years ago, on 1 August 1971, Michl Ebner began his professional career at Athesia. After completing his apprenticeship in the printing works, he moved to the editorial department of „Dolomiten“, then to Human Resources, and in 1981 was appointed Secretary to the Board. This was followed by positions as Deputy Director and, from 1 January 1995, Director, Chief Executive Officer and later President of the Athesia Group.
Alongside his business responsibilities, Michl Ebner was actively involved in politics for many years. He served as a Member of the Italian Parliament from 1979 to 1994 and as a Member of the European Parliament from 1994 to 2009. Since 2008, he has also served as President of the Bozen/Bolzano Chamber of Commerce.
Gratitude, appreciation and a step towards the future
The operational handover took place on Thursday, 30 July 2026, during the annual management meeting held at the Cusanus Academy in Bressanone. The dignified event, attended not only by Bishop Ivo Muser but also by leading representatives from the Church, politics and the business community, was characterised by heartfelt gratitude and appreciation, sentiments that were expressed repeatedly in moving and sincere tributes.
Through extraordinary personal commitment and entrepreneurial foresight, Michl Ebner has shaped and advanced the development of the Athesia Group, making it possible to hand over a strong, well-positioned company ready for the future.