Billionaire Profile
Hans Georg Naeder & family
Global Rank
#774

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Hans Georg Naeder & family

CEO, Ottobock SE & Co. KGaA
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.2B
As of December 2025
Age
64
Source
Prosthetics
Industry
manufacturing
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Hans Georg Naeder, born in 1961, is a prominent German entrepreneur and the Managing Partner of Ottobock, a global leader in prosthetics and orthotics. Taking over the family business at a young age, Naeder has steered Ottobock to become the world market leader in its field, driving innovation in medical technology. His career has been marked by significant achievements in the prosthetics industry, alongside other interests such as sailing and real estate. Naeder's leadership has been instrumental in Ottobock's international expansion and technological advancements, impacting the lives of many by restoring mobility. He has also been recognized for his philanthropic efforts.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Hans Georg Näder was born in Duderstadt, Germany, in 1961, as the only son of Maria and Max Näder. He studied business administration in Nuremberg. His grandfather, Otto Bock, founded the company in 1919.

Rise to Success

In 1990, at the age of 28, Näder took over the management of the Ottobock Group from his father. He successfully drove the internationalization of the family business, leading to its position as a world market leader in prosthetics. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its global presence to operate in 60 countries, with over 9,000 employees. Näder has also been involved in strategic decisions, including repurchasing shares from EQT in 2024.

Key Business Strategies

Näder's strategic focus has been on innovation and expansion. Ottobock has launched numerous products, including the C-Leg (a microprocessor-controlled knee joint) and has been a strong presence in the Paralympic Games. The company's revenue reached €1.6 billion in 2024, demonstrating sustained growth. Strategic product launches and successful acquisitions have contributed to this growth.

Philanthropy

Näder is involved in the Otto Bock Global Foundation. He has also been the initiator of the Eichsfeld-Festival.

Career Milestones

1990

Took over Ottobock Group

Assumed management of the family business.

1997

C-Leg launch

Presented the world's first microprocessor-controlled knee joint.

2003

German Entrepreneur of the Year

Awarded in the Industry Division.

2007

New Zealand Millennium Cup Victory

Won the race with his sailing yacht Pink Gin.

2024

Bought back EQT stake

Repurchased shares to maintain family control of Ottobock.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Medical Research/Social Responsibility

Otto Bock Global Foundation

Undisclosed

Chairman of the supervisory board and founder.

Controversies & Challenges

2024

Continued and new trade relationships with Russia

Ottobock was revealed to have continued as well as starting new trade relationships with Russia despite the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

2022

Management shakeup

Dismissed almost the entire management board of Ottobock.