Daimler Truck announced on Sunday that its chief financial officer Jochen Goetz died in a tragic accident on Saturday.
Mr. Goetz, who was 52 years old, had dedicated an impressive 36 years of service to Daimler Truck.
In an official statement, Daimler Truck expressed the deep sorrow and shock that reverberated through the company following the sudden and unexpected demise of Jochen Goetz on August 5, 2023.
Jochen Goetz had been a pivotal member of the Daimler Truck Holding AG’s Board of Management since July 12, 2021.
He was responsible for overseeing finance and controlling, as well as the procurement of non-production materials and services, and IT.
His role also extended to the Board of Management of Daimler Truck AG.
Martin Daum, the Chairperson of the Board of Management of Daimler Truck Holding AG, paid tribute to Mr. Goetz, calling his passing an immense loss to the company on both a personal and professional level.
Daum reminisced about their two-decade-long collaboration, praising Goetz’s unwavering dedication to Daimler Truck.
He credited Goetz with playing a vital role in shaping the company into what it is today, underscoring his exceptional professionalism and positive demeanor.
Daum reiterated that Goetz’s contributions would forever remain an integral part of the company’s legacy.
He extended condolences to Goetz’s family and loved ones on behalf of the Board of Management and the entire Daimler Truck family.
Joe Kaeser, Chairperson of the Supervisory Board of Daimler Truck Holding AG, echoed the sentiment of shock at Goetz’s sudden passing.
Just days prior to his death, Goetz had impressively presented the company’s financial achievements to the Supervisory Board.
Kaeser remembered Goetz as a person of authenticity, dedication, and compassion towards his colleagues.
Goetz’s profound commitment to Daimler Truck’s long-term goals was unmatched, and his financial expertise had significantly bolstered the company’s position and profitability.
Kaeser offered his condolences to Goetz’s family, acknowledging the loss of a remarkable manager and individual.
Michael Brecht, Chairperson of the General Works Council of Daimler Truck AG, expressed deep sorrow and shock at Goetz’s passing.
He remembered Goetz’s remarkable journey within the Daimler Truck organization, highlighting his ability to achieve greatness and foster cooperation between management and the Works Council.
Brecht lamented the loss of a trusted companion and friend, and his thoughts went out to Goetz’s family during this difficult time.
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Jochen Goetz’s journey began on April 6, 1971, in Rastatt, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany.
After completing his education and an apprenticeship at the then Mercedes-Benz AG, he pursued a degree in Business Administration (VWA) from the Verwaltungs- und Wirtschafts-Akademie in Karlsruhe, Germany, between 1994 and 1998.
His lifelong career at the Daimler Group spanned over 36 years.
Throughout his tenure, Goetz occupied various roles within the organization, starting in controlling functions at the Unimog division.
His journey took him through multiple positions, including leadership roles in finance and controlling at Truck Powertrain, and even a directorial position at Daimler Trucks North America in Portland, Oregon.
In 2015, he returned to the commercial vehicle division, ultimately becoming a vital part of the Daimler Truck Holding AG’s Board of Management.
Notably, Goetz played a significant role in the successful spin-off of Daimler Truck Holding AG from Mercedes-Benz Group AG in December 2021.
Under his guidance, Daimler Truck Holding AG swiftly joined the DAX, the prestigious stock index of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, marking another milestone in the company’s journey.
In recent times, Goetz had proudly announced strong financial results for the first half of 2023, including an elevated annual forecast and the initiation of Daimler Truck Holding AG’s first share buyback program.
Jochen Goetz’s passing leaves behind his wife and two children, his legacy forever imprinted in the heart of Daimler Truck.
