Change in the top management of Züst & Bachmeier Düsseldorf
Marcel Groß assumed the role of branch manager at Züst & Bachmeier’s Düsseldorf branch on October 1, 2022, succeeding Hans Unger, who will continue to provide advisory support to his team until the end of the year before embarking on a well-deserved retirement. We conducted interviews with both individuals regarding the management transition.
Q: Mr. Unger, how long have you been working at Züst & Bachmeier in Düsseldorf, and what milestones have characterized the development of the branch?
Hans Unger: I’ve been with the Düsseldorf branch since its inception in June 2004, starting with just three colleagues. Today, we have grown to a team of ten. Three years ago, we expanded into larger premises, incorporating the Universal Transport location in Cologne under our roof to consolidate expertise and streamline processes. Over the years, we have not only expanded our personnel but also developed robust business operations. Despite challenging economic periods like the 2008/2009 crisis and the 2020/2021 pandemic, we maintained a consistent order situation. A specific focus of our activities lies in Southeast Asia, where we undertake projects for the energy sector, among other areas.
Q: What have been your particular highlights over the past 18 years?
Hans Unger: One significant achievement was transporting a complete gas drilling platform, the largest load we’ve ever handled. We collected various construction materials, including 120,000 tonnes of pipes, from global manufacturers and transported them to the Caspian Sea off the coast of Turkmenistan. This involved road, rail, and chartered ship transport, depending on the route section and the goods.
Q: Mr. Groß, when you hear this, are you looking forward to your new job?
Marcel Groß: Absolutely. However, I am aware that I have big shoes to fill, following in Hans Unger’s footsteps. Together with the team, he has achieved and built up a great deal here over the past few years, and I had the privilege to witness and learn from him. I began my apprenticeship at Züst & Bachmeier in 2009. Back then, my father had to sign the training contract because I was under 18. After that, things progressed steadily. Before moving to branch management, I worked as a Senior Project Manager.
Q: What tasks does your new position involve, and have you already set yourself goals for the coming years?
Marcel Groß: I have plans for the branch’s further development, always in collaboration with the team. We operate with flat hierarchies and mutual support. As the branch manager, I report to Group management. Currently, my focus is on expanding our regular business in the USA and enhancing our activities in Turkey, which is very close to my heart. We have even taken on a new team member to expand our activities there.
Hans Unger: I’ve truly enjoyed my time here but now look forward to dedicating more time to voluntary work, traveling with my wife, and learning new languages. I believe it’s the right time for a change at the top. After 18 years, certain processes can benefit from a fresh perspective. Marcel Groß will bring that perspective and lead our Düsseldorf team into the future. I wish him every success!
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The Universal Transport Group expresses gratitude to Hans Unger for his dedication and outstanding performance over nearly two decades, significantly contributing to the company’s success. We wish him all the best in his new phase of life!
We also extend a warm welcome to Marcel Groß in his new position. We look forward to our continued collaboration and wish him success in both his current and future responsibilities!
