Billionaire Profile
Erich Wesjohann & family
Global Rank
#625

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Erich Wesjohann & family

CEO, Poultry genetics
GERMANY
Real-Time Net Worth
$6.516B
Estimated based on Poultry genetics stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
80
Source
Poultry genetics
Industry
Food & Beverage
Citizenship
GERMANY

Biography

Erich Wesjohann, at 80 years old, is the chairman of EW Group, a leading global company in poultry genetics. His net worth is estimated at $5.7 billion as of June 2024. Wesjohann's wealth stems from his pioneering work in poultry genetics and breeding, transforming the family business into a global powerhouse. His career has been marked by a focus on innovation, sustainability, and long-term strategic thinking in the agribusiness sector, contributing significantly to global food security.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Erich Wesjohann was born into a farming family in Germany, instilling in him a deep understanding of agriculture's challenges and opportunities. This upbringing fostered his entrepreneurial spirit and laid the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Rise to Success

Wesjohann took the reins of the family's poultry breeding operations in the 1980s. He recognized the potential of breeding genetics to revolutionize poultry farming, focusing on scientific advancements in genetics and selective breeding. This approach positioned the company as a leader in the poultry genetics market. In 1998, the family business was split into two entities: EW Group, led by Erich Wesjohann, and Lohmann SE, led by his brother Paul-Heinz Wesjohann.

Key Business Strategies

Wesjohann's leadership style is marked by a commitment to innovation and long-term thinking. He has consistently invested in research and development, ensuring that EW Group stays ahead in a competitive industry. The company has been able to improve breeding processes and address global challenges in food production by leveraging advancements in biotechnology and data analysis.

Philanthropy

Beyond business, Erich Wesjohann is also a dedicated philanthropist, though specific amounts of his philanthropic initiatives are not available in the search results.

Career Milestones

1962

Apprenticeship

Started his career as an apprentice in the family's agricultural trade business with a hatchery.

1980s

Leadership of Poultry Breeding Operations

Took over the family's poultry breeding operations, focusing on advancements in genetics and selective breeding.

1998

Split of Family Business

The family business was divided into EW Group (Erich) and Lohmann SE (Paul-Heinz).

1999

Founded EW Group

Established the EW Group after splitting from the Lohmann-Wesjohann-Group with his brother.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Food Quality

Heinz-Lohmann Foundation

Undisclosed

Initiated the foundation with his brother to express their responsibility as industry leaders for food quality and related concerns of society.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Innovation and Long-term Thinking

Consistently invested in research and development to ensure EW Group stays ahead in a competitive industry.

Sustainability

Balancing productivity with environmental stewardship and implementing practices to promote animal welfare.