Farewell from KWS
“It’s time to take stock after 12 years”
Eva Kienle has been Chief Financial Officer on the Executive Board since 2013, ensuring that KWS remains profitable and liquid and thus laying the foundation for growth and success. She will leave the company at the end of January 2025. In this interview, she talks about her experiences.
Even after she leaves in January, Eva Kienle will continue to keep an eye on KWS’ development.
You have been at KWS almost 12 years. How do you look back on this time and what in particular has stuck in your memory?
12 years doesn’t seem so remarkable, but when you’re faced with big changes, it’s time to take stock. I’ve realized how much has changed, how different KWS was when I started here and how far we’ve come. We’ve made enormous progress not only in terms of size and internationality, but also in the company’s structure. I particularly remember the acquisition of the Lochow family’s last shares. It was touching to see how many family members wanted to invest directly in KWS in order to retain close ties to their “old business.” Our business performance has also been splendid: Regardless of banking crises, pandemics, price fluctuations, inflation or wars, we’ve constantly developed our business model further.
Another formative experience was the #makeyourselfgrow tour that we as the Executive Board undertook around the world. These impressive events, which were organized by our local colleagues, offered stimulating discussions and workshops, followed by personal conversations outside of everyday work.
What does #makeyourselfgrow mean for you?
At KWS, many people are involved in decisions and brought on board. No one works in isolation in their area of responsibility. This openness and early sharing of information are special features of KWS you no longer find in many large companies. I believe that thinking outside the box and new perspectives are essential for #makeyourselfgrow.
Have you always had a passion for numbers?
Yes, for me numbers are objective and less subject to interpretation than a photo, for example. I can make clear statements with the aid of relations, time series and comparisons and draw the conclusion: This is a good result, this is not a good result. Numbers offer little room for interpretation. If we look at KWS’ figures over the last few years, we see impressive growth in product diversity, innovativeness and departments – that is a clear result.
How do you see KWS’ future?
I’m not worried about KWS. The creativity, commitment and visions that come together here are superb. The task now is to pool all of that and leverage the potential. I’m excited about developments and will continue to keep an eye on KWS’ figures and progress in the future. I’m totally confident that the future holds many exciting opportunities and joy for everyone here. |
© KWS SAAT SE & Co. KGaA 2025
