KNF Announces Leadership Transition – Alexander Heizler Appointed CEO
As of January 2026, KNF has entered a new chapter in its leadership.
After more than 40 successful years at KNF, including 26 as Chief Executive Officer, Martin Becker handed over the role of CEO to Alexander Heizler, who has been with KNF since 2009 and Chief Operating Officer since 2021. Martin Becker will now focus fully on his role as Chair of the Board of Directors. With this step, he is now completely stepping back from the operational business and brings a carefully planned transition period to an end. This leadership transition change reflects KNF’s commitment to long-term stability and its identity as a family-owned business.
Martin Becker Moves to Board of Directors
Martin Becker has shaped KNF with vision, a deep commitment to innovation and a strong focus on sustainable growth. Under his leadership, the company successfully navigated global challenges such as the international financial crisis and the pandemic while driving innovation and growth. We thank him for his outstanding contribution and are delighted that he will continue to support KNF’s strategic direction in his new role as Chairman of the Board of Directors. We are also pleased that he will remain connected to the company as a shareholder.
Martin Becker explains, “Passing on the operational leadership of KNF is a deeply personal step for me. I am proud of what we have built together and having worked with Alexander Heizler for many years, I am confident that he will lead the company with the same passion and responsibility. As Chairman of the Board of Directors, I look forward to supporting KNF’s continued success.”
Alexander Heizler Takes Over as CEO
Alexander Heizler brings extensive operational experience and a deep understanding of KNF’s business and culture. He served as a member of the Executive Management Board since its foundation in July 2011 and has worked closely alongside Martin Becker ever since. In 2021 he took up the role as COO of the group leading the operational business, while Martin Becker focused on selected strategic topics. His appointment as CEO ensures continuity and marks a confident step toward the future.
“I am honored to take on the role of CEO and grateful for the trust placed in me. KNF stands as a technology leader, guided by strong values, a clear vision, and an exceptional global team. It is a privilege to be part of this outstanding organization of over 900 dedicated colleagues worldwide, and I am looking forward to continuing our successful journey,” Alexander Heizler adds.
A key focus for Alexander Heizler will be the digitalization of products and processes to maintain and extend KNF’s technological leadership in the diaphragm pump industry. The seamless transition reflects KNF’s enduring values and its clear vision for the future as a global family-owned technology leader.
