ColorGATE Digital Output Solutions, a Ricoh-owned German software developer for global wide format and industrial printing markets, has appointed chief marketing officer Oliver Luedtke as the company’s new chief executive officer.
Oliver Luedtke, new CEO of ColorGATE
Luedtke will take over from Thomas Kirschner on July 1. After 25 years as the company’s founder and CEO, Kirschner will remain with ColorGATE as an advisor until January 2024.
“With more than two decades in the digital printing industry, Luedtke brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role,” the company said. “With a degree in printing technology, he has been part of the industry’s digitalization journey since its beginning.
“Luedtke joined ColorGATE in 2019 as chief marketing officer, leaving behind a remarkable impact on the company’s brand and marketing communications strategies. Prior to his time at ColorGATE, he held senior positions at companies such as Heidelberger Druckmaschinen, Best GmbH, EFI, and Kornit Digital.
“During his tenure as CMO, Luedtke successfully repositioned ColorGATE as a leader not only in sign and display printing, but also in various industrial applications, including surface decoration, garment decoration, packaging, and ceramic printing. His forward-thinking approach and deep understanding of the market have enabled ColorGATE to demonstrate its expertise across a wide range of industries.”
Luedtke said: “Every digital printer and decorator can benefit from what ColorGATE has to offer. We provide key software technology that improves colour consistency, streamlines print data generation, and enables automation. We also offer comprehensive training and services to ensure successful operation. I am excited to take the reins from a successful founder and CEO. The technology, coupled with the passion and drive of the team, provides a strong foundation from which we will venture into new opportunities and projects to further expand our horizons.”
Kirschner added: “It is with mixed emotions that I leave the company after an exciting 25 years. However, I am pleased to say that we have carefully planned this transition and I have the utmost confidence in Oliver. His in-depth knowledge of the company and its operations makes him the perfect choice for this role and will ensure that the quality of service to our customers is maintained. ColorGATE looks forward to continued success under Oliver Luedtke’s leadership as the company enters a new chapter of innovation, growth, and customer-focused solutions.”
ColorGATE, acquired by Ricoh in 2018, is distributed in Australia by Starleaton and Celmac.
