Viktor and Klara Eckel will jointly take the helm of medium-sized feed additive manufacturer Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition in 2027, as the family business passes operational leadership to the next generation.
Founder Dr Antje Eckel and Dr Bernhard Eckel will step back from their operational roles at the end of the year, handing over responsibility to their children. Klara Eckel and Dr Viktor Eckel will take the lead from 2027.
Viktor Eckel has been a member of the management team since 2024. From 2027, he will serve as Chief Executive Officer, with responsibility for the company’s operations. Klara Eckel will lead international sales as Chief Commercial Officer. A trained miller, she has held several leadership positions within the company, most recently as Regional Sales & Business Development Lead Asia.
Building the family business
Antje Eckel founded the company in 1994 to offer an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters. The company has focused on developing innovative products that naturally support animal welfare and performance in a sustainable way.
Production began at its headquarters in Niederzissen in 2009. In 2017, the opening of its international headquarters in Bangkok strengthened its presence in Asia. Today, Dr. Eckel employs more than 80 people worldwide and exports to more than 40 countries.
The family has been preparing for the leadership transition for several years, giving both successors time to prepare for their new responsibilities.
“Even so, you’re bound to feel a bit nervous,” says Klara Eckel, “now that the final decision lies with you.”
Alongside the support of their team, the siblings will continue to benefit from Antje and Bernhard Eckel’s advice.
“We will still be able to draw on all their experience, knowledge and expertise. That was very important to us,” Viktor Eckel emphasises.
Preparing for the transition
Both siblings began considering a future in the family business during their education and training.
Viktor Eckel studied biochemistry in Munich and Tromsø, Norway. After completing his doctorate, he initially headed Marketing and E-Learning before becoming Managing Director, with responsibilities including the further development of the phytogenic portfolio.
Klara Eckel trained as a feed miller and worked for various companies in Germany and abroad before becoming Head of Production at Dr. Eckel in 2019. From 2023, she was responsible for developing new business areas as Business Development Manager. In 2026, she took over regional sales leadership for Asia.
“Our parents always wanted us to choose our own career paths,” says Viktor Eckel, “but of course they are delighted that we will be taking Dr. Eckel forward.”
Their youngest brother, Theo Eckel, has also worked for the company for several years. This spring, he took on responsibility for strategic purchasing to prepare him for a future leadership role within the company.
