Philip Harting Joins German Engineering Federation Main Board

Philip Harting, who leads the HARTING Technology Group as Chairman of the Board and CEO, has joined the Main Board of the Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau (VDMA), the German Engineering Federation. His appointment is expected to strengthen the industry body's representation.

The move comes as the German machinery and equipment sector faces significant transformation. The VDMA recently revised its growth forecast for the industry to zero percent for 2026. Despite economic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainties, the association remains optimistic about future demand for innovative machinery and systems internationally.

"Mechanical engineering is an important target market for our company," stated Philip Harting. "It is therefore logical for me to represent mechanical and plant engineering in Germany and Europe and to campaign for the interests of the industry." He acknowledged the sector's challenges, including protectionist geopolitical influences and disrupted supply chains.

The VDMA represents approximately 3,500 member companies and is the largest industrial employer in the EU-27, providing jobs for 3.1 million people. In 2025, the sector's machinery exports reached about 593 billion euros, with Germany accounting for over a third. The VDMA focuses on key areas such as research, innovation, digitalization, and sustainability.