Interview with Dr. Hans-Jörg Gebhard

Dr. Hans-Jörg Gebhard grew up on his family's farm in Eppingen. After graduating from high school, he studied agriculture at the University of Hohenheim, specializing in economics. He then went on to earn his doctorate and worked as a research assistant. In 1986, he returned to his parents' farm and became involved as an agricultural expert. His initial involvement in association work led him to the board of the Baden-Württemberg Beet Growers' Association. He later held other top positions in southern German associations, including chairman of the board of the South German Sugar Beet Processing Cooperative (Süddeutsche Zuckerrübenverwertungs-Genossenschaft). 

In 2000, at the age of 45, he took over as chairman of the supervisory board of Südzucker AG, a position he held for over two decades and in which he played a key role in shaping the company's strategic direction. During his tenure, Südzucker underwent profound market changes, restructuring, and diversification into new business areas. After many years of service, he retired in July 2022.