Wrightbus Welcomes New CEO Axel J. Maschka to Lead Expansion

Wrightbus, a leader in zero-emission public transport, has appointed Axel J. Maschka as its new Chief Executive Officer. Maschka, a seasoned expert in the transport industry, brings a wealth of experience from his previous roles at major companies such as Hyundai Mobis, Volvo, and Mercedes-Benz. His appointment signals a new chapter for Wrightbus as it aims for global expansion and enhanced product quality.

Taking over from Jean-Marc Gales, who led the company for two and a half years, Maschka steps into a rapidly growing organization. Since being acquired from administration by Jo Bamford in 2019, Wrightbus has expanded its workforce from 43 employees to approximately 2,300. Maschka expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead Wrightbus, emphasizing the importance of building on the company’s strong foundations.

Vision for Growth and Innovation

Maschka, who has worked extensively in Europe and Asia, aims to enhance the company’s operations in Ballymena and Malaysia. He highlighted the necessity of improving reliability and resilience within the supply chain, alongside expanding after-sales services. “We are laying strong foundations for the challenges ahead,” Maschka stated, indicating a commitment to operational excellence.

Wrightbus is known for pioneering the world’s first hydrogen double-decker bus and producing leading electric and diesel models. The company also operates NewPower, Europe’s largest repowering facility located in Oxfordshire, which complements its refurbishment capabilities. Maschka believes these innovations will help Wrightbus stand out in a competitive market.

Commitment to Customer-Centric Practices

Maschka’s management philosophy centers around customer satisfaction. “Every post I’ve held has focused on the customer, putting them at the center of everything we do,” he remarked. This focus aligns with Wrightbus’s long-standing tradition of treating employees like family and customers like royalty.

At 59 years old and fluent in German, French, and English, Maschka is well-equipped to navigate the international landscape. He emphasized the benefits of being part of the HydraB Group, which provides access to a diverse portfolio of companies that offer comprehensive solutions from depot infrastructure to maintenance services.

In conclusion, under Axel J. Maschka’s leadership, Wrightbus is poised to enhance its market position globally. The combination of innovative products, a commitment to quality, and a customer-first approach suggests a promising future for the company as it continues to evolve in the public transport sector.