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Billionaire Profile
Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler-Thumann
Global Rank
#931

Image: Unsplash Contributor | Unsplash License | via Unsplash

Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler-Thumann

CEO, Auto parts
GERMANY
Real-Time Net Worth
$4.482B
Estimated based on Auto parts stock value as of March 6, 2026
-2.47% (24h)
Age
84
Source
Auto parts
Industry
Automotive
Citizenship
GERMANY

Biography

Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler-Thumann, born in 1941, is a prominent German businesswoman and co-owner of the Schaeffler Group. Her wealth is primarily derived from her stake in Schaeffler AG, a major player in the auto parts industry, manufacturing high-precision components for automotive and industrial sectors. As of 2024, her estimated net worth is $11.7 billion, reflecting her significant contributions to the company's global expansion and commitment to sustainability. Her career began with her marriage to Georg Schaeffler, leading her to take the reins of the family business after his death in 1996, growing it into a global technology corporation.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler-Thumann was born in Prague in 1941 and grew up in Vienna, Austria. Initially, she pursued a medical education. In 1963, she married Georg Schaeffler, and moved to Herzogenaurach, Bavaria, and entered the world of the Schaeffler Group AG through her marriage.

Rise to Success

Her career took a pivotal turn when she took over the family business after her husband Georg's death in 1996. Under her leadership, Schaeffler Group AG has grown significantly through multiple acquisitions, including INA, LuK, and FAG, becoming a leading producer of rolling bearings and linear motion products. She led the acquisition of FAG Kugelfischer Georg Schäfer AG Schweinfurt, making Schaeffler Group AG the second-largest producer of rolling bearings in the world. Schaeffler successfully completed its initial public offering on October 9, 2015.

Key Business Strategies

Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler-Thumann has been instrumental in the strategic growth and global expansion of Schaeffler AG. The company has a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and digitalization. Schaeffler has expanded its presence with over 200 locations in more than 50 countries.

Philanthropy

Maria-Elisabeth Schaeffler-Thumann is known for her philanthropic activities, supporting education, healthcare, and environmental causes.

Career Milestones

1963

Marriage to Georg Schaeffler

Began her involvement with the Schaeffler Group AG through marriage.

1996

Took over Schaeffler Group AG

Assumed leadership of the family business after the death of her husband.

2010

Deputy Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board of Schaeffler AG

Served as Deputy Chairwoman until April 2023.

2013

Family Business Woman of the Year

Recognized by the German business world and the business newspaper Handelsblatt.

2014

Married Juergen Thumann

Married the former President of the Federation of German Industries.

2023

Retired from Active Work in the Supervisory Board

Stepped back from active work in the Supervisory Board.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Education

Unknown

Supports educational causes.

Healthcare

Healthcare

Unknown

Supports healthcare initiatives.

Environmental

Environmental Causes

Unknown

Supports environmental initiatives.

Controversies & Challenges

2008

Continental AG Acquisition

Schaeffler Group's debt-financed acquisition of Continental AG.

2021

Allegations of using forced labor

The company exploited thousands of slave labourers from France, Russia and Poland in its plants in German-occupied Poland.

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