Magirus names Fatmir Veselaj as new CEO
Iain Hoey
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CEO transition confirmed for Magirus in Germany
Magirus has announced that Fatmir Veselaj will become Chief Executive Officer on 1 July 2025, succeeding Thomas Hilse, who will move to the Supervisory Board.
The company shared the update in a 27 June statement, following a public ceremony in Ulm two days earlier marking the official leadership change.
Magirus reported that the event included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in Hirschstraße to mark the 130th anniversary of the death of company founder Conrad Dietrich Magirus.
According to the company, Veselaj has been serving as Chief Restructuring Officer since early 2025 and will now assume full executive leadership.
Magirus is headquartered in Ulm, Germany, and focuses on firefighting technology, equipment and vehicle systems.
Fatmir Veselaj to lead restructuring at Magirus
Magirus stated that Veselaj will continue driving a transformation strategy launched during his time as CRO.
According to the company, this strategy includes a revenue growth target of €750 million, climate neutrality by 2030, and the formation of a new business division, Magirus Defence.
Veselaj previously held roles at Porsche Consulting and Mutares, the new owner of Magirus.
Magirus explained that he was appointed as CRO in early 2025 to lead the restructuring process.
In a statement, Fatmir Veselaj said: “I am very much looking forward to the challenges ahead and accept the responsibility with respect and enthusiasm.”
He added:
“I would like to thank Thomas Hilse for the professional handover phase and look forward to working with him on the Supervisory Board.”
Leadership change marked by commemoration event
On 25 June, Magirus hosted a formal event in Ulm to mark the leadership handover.
According to the company, the ceremony took place at the birthplace of founder Conrad Dietrich Magirus in Hirschstraße.
The Lord Mayor of Ulm, Martin Ansbacher, and the Commander of the Ulm Fire Brigade, Adrian Röhrle, attended alongside Veselaj and Hilse.
A plaque was unveiled in honour of the founder, recognising his contribution to the development of fire services in Germany and internationally.
Magirus stated that the gesture was intended to acknowledge the company’s historic roots and ongoing commitment to fire safety.
Thomas Hilse to remain on Supervisory Board
Magirus confirmed that outgoing CEO Thomas Hilse will now join the Supervisory Board.
The company stated that Hilse served as CEO since 2021 and previously held international roles, including Brand President at IVECO.
Magirus credited Hilse with overseeing the company’s ownership change and product restructuring during his tenure.
In a formal statement, Thomas Hilse said: “I would like to thank our employees, the works council and our customers for their trust and loyalty over the past four years.”
He continued:
“Together, we have achieved a great deal and set the course for a successful future.”
“Taking over from Conrad Dietrich Magirus was a great challenge and at the same time a great honour.”
“I wish Fatmir Veselaj all the best in the management and further development of this great company!”
German Fire Service honours outgoing CEO
Magirus reported that a ceremony was held at the Magirus Iveco Museum in Neu-Ulm to honour Hilse’s contribution to fire services.
The company stated that Karl-Heinz Banse, President of the German Fire Service Association, awarded Hilse the German Fire Service Medal of Honour.
According to Magirus, the medal recognises Hilse’s achievements in the firefighting sector during his leadership.
The event formed part of the company’s broader recognition of historical and recent leadership at a time of transition.
Magirus added that it remains focused on executing its strategic plans under the new CEO.
Magirus names Fatmir Veselaj as new CEO: Summary
Magirus has announced that Fatmir Veselaj will become CEO on 1 July 2025.
He replaces Thomas Hilse, who becomes a member of the Supervisory Board.
Magirus held a ceremony in Ulm on 25 June to mark the transition.
The event included the unveiling of a plaque commemorating Conrad Dietrich Magirus.
Fatmir Veselaj was previously Chief Restructuring Officer at Magirus.
He has worked at Porsche Consulting and Mutares.
Magirus stated that Veselaj is leading a transformation strategy including new divisions and climate targets.
Thomas Hilse was recognised with the German Fire Service Medal of Honour.
The award was presented by Karl-Heinz Banse, President of the German Fire Service Association.
Magirus stated that Hilse led key strategic developments during his tenure.