Early Life
Michael Tojner was born on March 31, 1966, in Steyr, Austria. He grew up in Haag, Lower Austria. He graduated from the Bundesrealgymnasium Amstetten in 1984. He pursued higher education at the Vienna University of Economics and Business, earning degrees in business administration, and the University of Vienna, where he studied law. He received doctorates from both universities.
Rise to Success
Tojner's entrepreneurial journey began with investments in numerous companies. He is the founder of Montana Tech Components AG, an industrial group. His success is also linked to his role as CEO of Global Equity Partners Beteiligungs-Management GmbH. Tojner bought Varta, a German microbattery maker, in 2007 for $40 million and listed it on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in 2017. He has a 50% stake in Varta, which is reported to make the batteries for Apple AirPod Pros. He is also involved in real estate and hotel investments.
Key Business Strategies
Tojner's business strategies involve long-term investments. With Montana Tech Components AG, he focuses on sustained growth rather than frequent buying and selling. His venture capital approach includes investments in over 50 young companies. He has brought multiple companies to the stock market. His focus on technology and innovation has been a key aspect of his success. Varta's focus on expanding its Power Pack Solutions division, and developing customized battery solutions for industrial and commercial applications in close cooperation with customers. The company is also tapping into new business and technology fields, including sustainable cell technologies, scalable modular storage systems and practical solutions for energy infrastructure.
Philanthropy
Tojner supports education and cultural initiatives. He has been a guest lecturer at the Vienna University of Economics and Business for over 20 years, and he has co-created the Business Case Challenge for students. He also supports architecture and art projects.
