Billionaire Profile
Stephan Schnabel
Global Rank
#1799

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Stephan Schnabel

CEO, HELM AG
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.18B
As of December 2025
Age
50
Source
Chemicals
Industry
manufacturing
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Stephan Schnabel, a prominent figure in the chemical industry, is the CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board at HELM AG. He is known for his leadership in the chemical marketing, logistics, and distribution sector. His career includes various pivotal roles within HELM AG, including overseeing crop protection companies in South America. Schnabel is dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and promoting economic growth. His net worth is estimated at $2.18 billion, and he holds the 1799th position globally among billionaires.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Stephan Schnabel was born in 1975. He embarked on his professional journey with a dual training program at HELM AG, a Hamburg-based chemical marketing firm with a rich history dating back to 1900. This foundational experience equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the chemical trade, setting the stage for his future leadership roles. He is a graduate of a business economist program in foreign trade.

Rise to Success

Throughout his tenure at HELM AG, Schnabel has held various pivotal positions. He began by managing several subsidiaries worldwide, focusing on regions such as Latin America and Southern Europe. His management skills led to his promotion as Executive Director in 2011. By 2012, Schnabel joined HELM's Executive Board, and in 2020, he ascended to the role of Chairman of the Executive Board, succeeding his father, Dieter Schnabel. Under his leadership, HELM AG has continued to thrive, maintaining annual revenues of approximately $6 billion and operating offices in 30 countries.

Key Business Strategies

Stephan Schnabel emphasizes the importance of partnerships and collaboration for success. He has a forward-thinking approach, emphasizing sustainability and innovation within the chemical sector. He advocates for responsible business practices that align with environmental standards and address global challenges. HELM has also entered into a joint venture with agricultural company Cargill to produce renewable butanediol (BDO).

Philanthropy

Details of Stephan Schnabel's specific philanthropic activities are not readily available in the search results. However, his commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices suggests a focus on environmental and social initiatives.

Career Milestones

1996

Joined HELM AG

Began career at HELM AG, a chemical marketing firm. Held various positions since August 1996.

2011

Executive Director of HELM AG

Promoted to Executive Director, overseeing HELM's crop protection companies in South America.

2012

Executive Board Member of HELM AG

Joined the Executive Board of HELM AG.

2020

Chairman of the Executive Board of HELM AG

Succeeded his father, Dieter Schnabel, as Chairman of the Executive Board.

2024

Vice President of the Handelskammer Hamburg

Assumed the role of Vice President of the Handelskammer Hamburg (Hamburg Chamber of Commerce).

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"We can't do everything alone; we don't know everything."

Leadership Principles

Partnerships and Collaboration

Emphasizes the strength in numbers and the power of sharing information.

Sustainability and Innovation

Advocates for responsible business practices that align with environmental standards and address global challenges.