After 28 years at Desma Schuhmaschinen GmbH, 17 of which he spent as managing director, Christian Decker has embarked on a new chapter in his career. Since July 2026, he has been strengthening the team at Hegla, a machine manufacturer and one of the world’s leading suppliers of machinery and equipment for glass processing.
In a LinkedIn post, Decker describes his first few weeks at the company as an intensive induction period. He is particularly impressed by the technological expertise, the highly specialised products and the commitment of the staff. For someone with a passion for technology and production, entering the glass industry feels “like the Discovery Channel – with a dash of How It’s Made”.
Decker extends special thanks to Hegla-CEO Bernhard Hötger, who has supported the leadership transition openly and professionally. Hötger’s long-standing commitment to Hegla deserves “the utmost respect and gratitude”.
Looking ahead to his new role, Decker sets out a clear objective: together with staff, customers and partners, he aims to build on the company’s strong foundations and further develop Hegla into the go-to partner for the global glass industry.
Decker has served as CEO of the engineering firm Desma in Achim, near Bremen, since 2009. In April, it had emerged that he was to leave the company.
