Germany’s manufacturing sector is highly diversified, spanning chemicals, pharmaceuticals, industrial machinery, building materials, consumer goods, specialty chemicals, and medical technology. Each segment faces unique cybersecurity challenges, from protecting sensitive intellectual property in chemical and pharmaceutical plants, to securing automated production lines and digital supply chains, and ensuring compliance with international standards and regulations. Strong leadership at the executive cybersecurity level is critical to safeguard these complex ecosystems. The following CISOs exemplify the strategic vision, technical expertise, and operational excellence driving cybersecurity across Germany’s varied manufacturing landscape.
Volker Wagner — Chief Information Security Officer, BASF SE
Volker Wagner has led corporate security at BASF SE since 2018, focusing on security strategy development and implementation for the German economic community. He serves as chairman of the German Association for Security in Industry and Commerce (ASW) and holds international roles in ASIS International’s advisory councils and commissions. Previously, Volker was Senior Vice President at Deutsche Telekom AG, managing global business security across 50 countries. With over 23 years of leadership experience across finance, sales, auditing, and security, he is known for inspiring teams, setting clear expectations, and bridging operational and strategic security initiatives across BASF’s global chemical operations.
Natalia Oropeza — Chief Cybersecurity Officer, Siemens AG
Natalia Oropeza brings three decades of IT and cybersecurity experience, leading over 1,300 experts at Siemens as the Global Chief Cybersecurity Officer. She oversees cybersecurity for Siemens infrastructure, products, solutions, and services, while also driving initiatives for customer-facing cybersecurity services. Since 2023, Natalia serves as Chairwoman of the Charter of Trust and also holds the role of Chief Diversity, Inclusion & Equity Officer, fostering inclusion and collaboration across teams. She combines global cybersecurity leadership with a focus on innovation and diversity, ensuring Siemens’ industrial, energy, and healthcare solutions remain secure in complex international environments.
Volker Buß — Chief Security Officer & Chief Information Security Officer, Merck KGaA
Volker Buß assumed the combined role of CSO and CISO at Merck KGaA in 2024, integrating cyber and non-cyber security functions. He emphasizes holistic security management, addressing emerging risks such as AI-driven threats, social engineering, product crime, and site security. Volker leads cross-functional teams to strengthen operational resilience, compliance, and enterprise-wide cybersecurity culture. He has experience in speaking at various security summits and collaborating with global security executives. Volker focuses on building strategic, high-performing security operations that support Merck’s pharmaceutical and life science manufacturing, while driving awareness and preparedness across all business areas.
Mathias Bücherl — Vice President & Group CISO, Heidelberg Materials
Mathias Bücherl is responsible for Heidelberg Materials’ global cybersecurity and resilience strategy, overseeing IT and OT risk management and the Security Operations Center. He directs global business continuity programs and defines corporate security policies and standards. Beyond operational leadership, Mathias lectures at universities and advises multiple boards on cybersecurity strategy. His work ensures the protection of sensitive production processes, industrial operations, and digital transformation initiatives. He cultivates a security-first mindset across global teams, integrating cyber resilience into business operations and fostering awareness at every level of the organization.
Dr. Stefan Henkel — CIO (Head of IT), Siemens Healthineers
Dr. Stefan Henkel drives IT innovation at Siemens Healthineers, leading the digital transformation of healthcare manufacturing and service operations. He focuses on resilient technology architecture, automation, cloud adoption, and secure IT platforms to support digital product development and service delivery. His leadership enables the company to innovate while maintaining robust cybersecurity standards across industrial, clinical, and operational IT systems. Dr. Henkel emphasizes a forward-looking, digital-first approach that balances innovation with risk management, ensuring that Siemens Healthineers remains a trusted global healthcare manufacturer.
Markus Weissensel — Chief Information Security Officer, Fuchs Petrolub SE
Markus Weissensel oversees global IT security at Fuchs Petrolub SE, developing and implementing cybersecurity strategies, policies, and incident response processes. He collaborates closely with executive leadership to ensure that IT security aligns with business objectives. Markus monitors security incidents and coordinates remediation efforts, securing sensitive production and operational systems for the global specialty lubricant manufacturer. His focus on governance, risk management, and strategic IT planning ensures that Fuchs Petrolub’s industrial operations remain protected against evolving cyber threats.
Benjamin Benning — Global Director IT Infrastructure & Digital Workplace | Global CISO | Global Director IT Governance, Gerresheimer
Benjamin Benning leads digital transformation and global IT security at Gerresheimer, focusing on cloud adoption, cybersecurity governance, and Industry 4.0 initiatives. He established a Cyber Security Board and implemented an external SOC for 24/7 monitoring, creating a transparent risk framework for executive management. Benjamin emphasizes clear communication, cross-functional collaboration, and operational execution, ensuring that Gerresheimer’s pharmaceutical packaging and specialty glass production remain secure, resilient, and compliant with international standards.
Arijo Nazari Azari — Senior Vice President, Chief Information Security Officer, Evonik
Arijo Nazari Azari heads global cybersecurity at Evonik, a leading chemical manufacturer. He oversees cyber strategy, ISMS, IT/OT security governance, risk management, and compliance. With more than 20 years of experience, Arijo implements international standards such as ISO/IEC 27001, 62443, and NIST. He builds and leads high-performing cybersecurity teams, collaborating closely with boards, business units, and IT departments. His leadership ensures that Evonik’s chemical production, R&D, and global operations are protected while supporting digital transformation and fostering a security-aware culture across the enterprise.
Stefan Braun — Chief Information Security Officer, Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
Stefan Braun combines business focus with deep technical expertise to lead cybersecurity at Henkel, covering consumer goods, adhesives, and specialty chemicals manufacturing. He has a successful track record transforming teams, adopting agile practices, and driving international cybersecurity programs. With broad experience in IT security and software engineering, Stefan aligns technical initiatives with strategic business priorities, ensuring that Henkel’s global operations are resilient, compliant, and protected against emerging threats.
Chuks Ojeme — Chief Information Security Officer, Brenntag
Chuks Ojeme leads global information security at Brenntag, a chemical distribution company, and is recognized as a Top Global CISO. He provides strategic leadership in governance, risk management, and cybersecurity across the supply chain. Chuks implements international security standards, digital investigations, and enterprise risk management programs, ensuring that Brenntag’s operations, intellectual property, and IT systems remain secure. His leadership balances innovation, operational resilience, and proactive threat mitigation across the chemical distribution network.
German Manufacturing CISOs Leading Complex Industries
The diversity of Germany’s manufacturing sector, from chemicals and pharmaceuticals to industrial machinery, medical technology, and consumer goods, requires executive cybersecurity leadership capable of managing global, multi-domain risks. These CISOs exemplify strategic foresight, technical expertise, and operational execution, ensuring that German manufacturing remains competitive, secure, and resilient while embracing digital transformation and industry innovation.