New CTO at ABB Machine Automation

Stefan Schönegger (pictured) has been appointed Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of ABB Machine Automation (B&R). Holding a degree in Electronics & Business from the University of Applied Sciences Vienna and a postgraduate diploma in Renewable Energy Systems from the Technical University of Vienna, Stefan Schönegger joined Machine Automation in 2006 as project manager for PLCs and control systems and has since held a number of positions of responsibility, including, from 2022, Head of Global Product Group Controls.

The new CTO brings extensive experience in B&R technology, a deep understanding of customer requirements and well-established relationships with industry partners. His proven track record in building highly effective organisations provides a strong foundation for the role he has been called upon to assume. Stefan Schönegger succeeds Florian Schneeberger, who has led the Machine Automation division since 1 November 2025 as Division President and CEO of B&R Industrial Automation.

“I am delighted about this new opportunity within B&R. Together with our teams, we will continue to drive forward our technology vision in the fields of automation, software and autonomous industrial solutions. Open ecosystems and partnerships will be central to many of our activities,” said Stefan Schönegger.