IFE Material Handling has always been synonymous with technological excellence and customized solutions in the field of bulk material processing. With a recent change in management, the company now enters a new era – one in which IFE's proven strengths are further developed and new impetus from digitalization and innovation will be introduced.
In the interview, new CEO Helmut Tröbinger talks about proven values and new approaches. He describes how IFE, with experience, dedication, expertise, and team spirit, is actively working on solutions for key future topics such as digitalization, circular economy, and resource efficiency.
Congratulations on your new role! What appealed to you personally most about the job as CEO at IFE?
Helmut Tröbinger: Thank you very much! And right at the beginning, a quick note: At IFE, we’re on a first-name basis – so I’d be happy if we keep things informal here, too.
As a company, IFE Material Handling is shaped above all by its people. Their family-like team spirit, wide-ranging skills, and long-standing experience are the foundation of our decades of success. Being able to build on that is a true privilege for me.
You are taking on your new position at a time when some long-standing managers are retiring. How are you experiencing this change in the company?
Helmut: We bid farewell to our long-standing colleagues with deep respect for their achievements – they have contributed to IFE’s success over many years and are now heading into a well-earned retirement.
It’s all the more valuable that we were able to appoint experienced colleagues from within our own ranks, as well as a new team member, to take over their roles. This brings both continuity and fresh perspectives – a combination full of potential. I see this change as a natural step forward in our evolution and I am excited to shape IFE’s future together with our new management team.
In your opinion, what are the constants – and what are the key future topics – at IFE?
Helmut: Commitment, expertise, experience, and partnership: these core values are part of IFE’s DNA and will remain so. We need to build on this and, as a mechanical engineering company, find solutions for the circular economy, resource efficiency and the shortage of skilled workers – key problems facing our society. With customized vibration and magnetic technology and deep know-how in process and application engineering, we deliver sustainable and customer-oriented results.
What strategic steps do you derive from that?
Helmut: We can build on a high level of technical expertise, proven technologies and high-quality machines – these are our core strengths and provide a solid foundation.
At the same time, topics like automation and digitalization are gaining momentum. That’s why we are making targeted investments in the expansion of our research and development capabilities and strengthening our international sales network by focusing on clearly defined target markets.
For us, the principle is: technology is a tool – but collaboration is the key.
Digitalization is a major topic in production processes – and therefore for our customers, too. What role does digitalization play at IFE, and how does the new i-STEP product line fit into this development?
Helmut: Digitalization should never be an end in itself – it must create real added value for our customers and their processes.
With our new i-STEP product line, we’re doing just that: combining our in-depth expertise with smart sensor technology and data analysis. This opens up new opportunities in condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, and performance optimization.
Digitalization is also changing how we communicate and work together – what does this mean for the way we interact with our customers and partners?
Helmut: Our customers value direct contact with us – and it is precisely this personal connection that we want to maintain in the future. At the same time, we want to expand our digital services in a targeted approach: in addition to traditional channels like phone, email, and face-to-face meetings, we’re introducing new digital options. One example is our new chat feature, supported by our digital assistant Fred, which is designed to make communication even easier and faster.
At this point, I’d like to extend a sincere thank you to our partners and highlight the importance of these long-standing relationships. Many of them go back decades, and each one is highly valued. We’re looking forward to continuing this journey together – because IFE remains IFE: committed, experienced, collaborative, and competent.
And finally, a personal question: What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at IFE?
Helmut: I like to be outdoors – whether it's cycling, hiking, or skiing. Being active in nature is the perfect way for me to unwind. I also enjoy cultural events, which I like to attend with my family – and occasionally actively participate in myself.
Helmut Tröbinger
CEO of IFE Material Handling since March 2025
The trained mechatronics engineer has been with the company for over 15 years and has previously been Head of Sales, Project Management, and Marketing. He is deeply familiar with international business as well as the technical challenges of mechanical engineering. As a manager, he values transparency, nurturing potential, and collaborative problem-solving. For him, one thing is clear: only those who act as a team can sustainably seize the opportunities of the future.