Stadler Strengthens Its Influence in Czechia: Experienced Manager Zdeněk Majer Takes the Helm

Swiss train manufacturer Stadler has bolstered its leadership in the Czech and Slovak markets by appointing Zdeněk Majer, a seasoned executive, as chairman of the supervisory board of Stadler Praha.

This strategic move supports the company's ambition to become a regional key player, offering modern, innovative train solutions. Modern Stadler trains have much to offer Czech railways: innovative technologies, advanced design, and the Swiss attention to detail. The company is a technological leader, holding world records for the range of its hybrid hydrogen-powered units (Stadler Flirt H2) and battery-powered trains (Stadler Flirt Akku). Stadler is also targeting high-speed trains and double-deck units. Its latest high-tech innovation, the RS Zero, was unveiled at last year’s InnoTrans, as previously reported by RAILTARGET.

Currently, Stadler trains operate in Czechia under carriers like LeoExpress (Stadler Flirt) and Arriva (Stadler RS1).

Experienced Manager Zdeněk Majer

At the end of the year, Zdeněk Majer was appointed chairman of the supervisory board of Stadler Praha by the Swiss headquarters. This move aims to strengthen the company’s position in the Czech and Slovak markets and to develop its Prague subsidiary further. The decision sends a clear message: Stadler seeks to solidify its influence and become a key player in the region.

Majer brings over 20 years of experience in the rail industry, including his tenure as Senior Vice President at ŠKODA, where he secured major international contracts. He studied management and finance in Czechia, Germany, and the USA and has held senior roles both domestically and abroad. Over the past two years, he led the energy company SSI Energy Group and, since 2020, has served as the Honorary Consul of Finland in Czechia.

His primary responsibilities will include market development, marketing, and defining strategies for the region. Dr. Ansgar Brockmeyer, Stadler’s Executive Vice President for Sales and Marketing, stated, "Mr. Majer is a highly experienced professional, and I am delighted he has joined the Stadler family. His expertise will undoubtedly contribute to Stadler’s further growth in the region."

New CEO of Stadler Praha

The second appointment is Ondřej Vaško, who became CEO of Stadler Praha at the start of 2025. Previously, Vaško served as a technical project manager and steadily rose through the company’s ranks to the top leadership position. He replaces Bohumír Kračmár, the founding CEO who spent 15 years successfully developing the company.

Philipp Brunner, Stadler’s Executive Vice President for Central Europe, commented, "I am very pleased to entrust Ondřej with the role of CEO at Stadler Praha. I would also like to thank Bohumír Kračmár for his dedication and contributions to Stadler Praha’s success. Under his leadership, the company grew, acquired new competencies, and became a key partner in research and development within the Stadler Group. I look forward to continuing our collaboration with Bohumír, who will remain actively involved in the company’s activities."

Stadler Praha

Stadler is no newcomer to the Czech market. It established its Czech subsidiary, Stadler Praha, in 2009 and has been active ever since. Passengers can experience Stadler trains on several routes in Czechia and Slovakia. The latest additions are in South Moravia, where the new Stadler units proudly bear the names of local vineyards.

With its leadership appointments and innovative technologies, Stadler is well-positioned to expand its role in the Czech and Slovak rail markets.

Source: RAILTARGET; Stadler Press Release