Dr. Gottfried Wastlbauer

Head of Positioning and Business Model, Merck Electronics

Dr. Gottfried Wastlbauer is the Head of Positioning and Business Model at Merck Electronics, a division of the Merck Group, since October 2023. He is based in the Frankfurt Rhine-Main Metropolitan Area, Germany. Dr. Wastlbauer has a robust background in high-tech and healthcare industries, with over nine years in executive leadership roles and significant experience in marketing, strategy, and investment.

Professional Experience

Merck Group:
- Head of Positioning and Business Model (2023 - Present)
- Global Head of Marketing, BU Display Solutions (2018 - 2023): Led marketing for a $1.5 billion business focused on display technologies including LCD and OLED.
- Head of Strategy and Portfolio Management, BU Display Materials (2017 - 2018): Oversaw strategy for another $1.5 billion business in display materials.
- Head of Strategy and President's Office, Merck Consumer Health (2013 - 2017): Managed strategic projects and growth strategies for the consumer health division.
SHS Venture Capital: Senior Investment Manager (2009 - 2013), where he was involved in venture capital and private equity investments.
SymoTecs AG: CEO of a startup in mobile broadband satellite communications (2009).
McKinsey & Company: Associate/Engagement Manager (2004 - 2009), providing strategic consulting across various industries.

Education

Dr. Wastlbauer holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Cambridge, where he focused on ultra-thin film magnetism. He also has a Master of Science in Physics/Electrical Engineering from the University of Minnesota and a Diplom Ingenieur (M.Sc. equivalent) in Technical Physics from Johannes Kepler University Linz, where he graduated with distinction.

Skills and Achievements

Dr. Wastlbauer combines strong analytical and communication skills with a deep understanding of technology and market dynamics. His diverse experience spans leadership, investment, consulting, and technology, making him a well-rounded executive in the electronics and healthcare sectors.