Myers Industries Expands Board Leadership with Appointment of Helmuth Ludwig
Myers Industries Inc. a leading global manufacturer of products designed to protect and enhance infrastructure across multiple industries, has announced the appointment of Helmuth Ludwig to its Board of Directors, effective October 1, 2025. With this addition, the Myers Industries board now consists of nine directors, eight of whom are independent, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to strong corporate governance and diverse, strategic leadership.
Strategic Growth and Expertise at the Helm
F. Jack Liebau Jr., Chairman of the Myers Board of Directors, expressed enthusiasm over the new appointment, emphasizing the value Dr. Ludwig brings to the organization. “We are pleased and fortunate to welcome Helmuth Ludwig to our board,” Liebau stated. “Helmuth’s extensive strategic insight and unparalleled expertise in global industrial manufacturing and technology organizations will provide a critical perspective as we guide Myers Industries through its next phase of transformation, operational excellence, and growth. His experience will be instrumental as we continue to expand our market footprint and drive shareholder value.”
The appointment reflects Myers Industries’ ongoing focus on strengthening leadership and harnessing global expertise to navigate the evolving industrial landscape. By integrating perspectives from accomplished professionals like Dr. Ludwig, the company aims to ensure that its governance, strategic initiatives, and innovation efforts remain aligned with the fast-paced demands of the modern industrial sector.
A Distinguished Career in Global Business Leadership
Dr. Ludwig brings over three and a half decades of experience leading international business operations, combined with more than 14 years of board service across multiple high-profile companies. Currently, he serves as Professor of Practice for Strategy and Entrepreneurship at the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, a role he has held since January 2020. In this capacity, Dr. Ludwig focuses on cultivating entrepreneurial and strategic leadership skills among future business leaders, leveraging his extensive experience in global corporate management and technology-driven transformation.
Prior to his academic role, Dr. Ludwig spent 30 years with Siemens, one of the world’s foremost industrial manufacturing and technology firms. During his tenure, he held several executive positions across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. His leadership roles at Siemens included serving as President of Siemens PLM Software, CEO of the Siemens Industry Sector in North America, and Global Chief Information Officer. These roles provided him with comprehensive experience in operational strategy, global market expansion, technology implementation, and corporate governance—skills that are directly transferrable to his work on the Myers Industries Board of Directors.
Board Service and Advisory Experience
In addition to his executive career, Dr. Ludwig has cultivated extensive boardroom experience. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Hitachi Ltd., a leading global technology and industrial company, and Humanetics Group, where he has held the position of Chairman since September 2022. His expertise is also sought by Bridgepoint LLC and Zscaler, Inc., where he acts as an executive advisor, providing guidance on strategic initiatives, organizational growth, and operational efficiency.
Dr. Ludwig’s prior directorships include service at Circor International Inc. (formerly NYSE: CIR), the Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing, and Siemens Electrical LLC, all of which he chaired during his tenure. His broad experience in corporate governance, combined with leadership in strategic and operational roles, enables him to offer meaningful oversight and guidance, particularly in areas such as international expansion, technology-driven innovation, and risk management. Additionally, he is a past trustee of the Manufacturers Alliance for Productivity and Innovation, underscoring his longstanding commitment to advancing industrial excellence and organizational efficiency.
Impact on Myers Industries’ Strategic Direction
The appointment of Dr. Ludwig comes at a pivotal moment for Myers Industries, as the company continues to pursue strategic growth initiatives aimed at expanding its product offerings, increasing operational efficiency, and enhancing shareholder value. His deep understanding of global industrial markets, technology integration, and corporate strategy will be a valuable resource as the board evaluates investment opportunities, operational enhancements, and market expansion plans.
Dr. Ludwig’s international experience is particularly relevant to Myers Industries’ global ambitions. With prior leadership roles spanning Europe, Asia, and the Americas, he brings firsthand knowledge of international business operations, cross-border collaboration, and market-specific challenges. This perspective is expected to guide Myers Industries as it navigates complex global supply chains, emerging market opportunities, and the implementation of innovative manufacturing technologies.
Strengthening Governance and Independent Oversight
With eight of nine directors now independent, Myers Industries continues to reinforce its commitment to robust corporate governance practices. The board’s composition ensures that decisions are made with a balanced perspective, integrating diverse expertise and independent oversight. Dr. Ludwig’s appointment further strengthens this governance framework by adding a director with extensive international experience, technological insight, and a track record of leadership in large-scale industrial organizations.
By incorporating leaders with substantial global experience, the board aims to maintain a forward-looking approach to risk management, operational planning, and strategic decision-making. This approach is particularly important as the company seeks to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape, where technological innovation, operational efficiency, and market adaptability are critical to long-term success.
Dr. Ludwig’s appointment is expected to enhance Myers Industries’ ability to execute its strategic vision and deliver on its commitments to customers, employees, and shareholders. His expertise in technology-driven transformation, combined with extensive experience in both corporate leadership and board governance, positions him as a key contributor to the company’s continued growth and innovation.
“Joining the Myers Industries Board is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a company with a strong heritage, a clear strategic vision, and a commitment to operational excellence,” said Dr. Ludwig. “I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members and management to support Myers’ mission and help drive its continued success in the global industrial manufacturing sector.
