Billionaire Profile
Stefan Wirtgen
Global Rank
#1292

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Stefan Wirtgen

CEO, Wirtgen Group
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.1B
As of December 2025
Age
55
Source
Construction Vehicles
Industry
construction-engineering
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Stefan Wirtgen, a 55-year-old German billionaire, is a key figure in the construction equipment industry. His wealth stems from the Wirtgen Group, a leading manufacturer of construction vehicles, which was founded by his father, Reinhard Wirtgen, in 1961. Following the sale of the Wirtgen Group to John Deere in 2017, Stefan, along with his brother Jürgen, created Wirtgen Invest, a family office managing diverse investments. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $3.1 billion, positioning him as a prominent figure in the global construction industry.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Stefan Wirtgen inherited his entrepreneurial spirit from his father, Reinhard Wirtgen, who founded the Wirtgen Group in 1961. The company began as a small contracting business specializing in road construction machinery.

Rise to Success

The Wirtgen Group expanded significantly under Reinhard Wirtgen's leadership. Jürgen and Stefan Wirtgen took over the management in 1997, continuing the company's growth and innovation. The company became a leading manufacturer of construction vehicles, with a global presence.

Key Business Strategies

A pivotal business strategy was the sale of the Wirtgen Group to John Deere in 2017 for $5.2 billion. Following this, Stefan and his brother established Wirtgen Invest, a family office that manages investments in energy, real estate, healthcare, consumer goods, and finance.

Philanthropy

Specific details on Stefan Wirtgen's philanthropy are not readily available. Further research would be needed to find the exact amounts and initiatives he supports. Wirtgen Invest, the family office, has made approximately 700 investments, according to its website.

Career Milestones

1961

Wirtgen Group Founded

Reinhard Wirtgen founded a construction equipment business.

1997

Management Takeover

Stefan Wirtgen and his brother Jürgen took over the management of Wirtgen Group.

2017

Wirtgen Group Sold

Wirtgen Group was sold to Deere & Company for $5.2 billion.

2017

Wirtgen Invest Created

Stefan and Jürgen Wirtgen established a family office focusing on diverse investments.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Unspecified

Information not available

Undisclosed

Details of specific philanthropic activities are not readily available.