German bicycle parts distributor and service provider Messingschlager has announced an organizational and strategic realignment of its Sales and Marketing divisions to better respond to rapidly evolving market demands.

The company said the restructuring is aimed at enhancing quality and speed across its operations while striving not only to meet customer expectations but, whenever possible, to exceed them. The initiative is being led by Christoph Helmrich, Director of Sales & Marketing, who has reassigned responsibilities and strengthened the team with experienced industry professionals.

A key appointment is Gilles Schwanke-Bröker, who has assumed overall responsibility for sales as the company’s new Head of Sales. Following an extensive onboarding process, Schwanke-Bröker takes over leadership of the sales department. He brings many years of industry experience, including time at Magura, and is expected to play an important role in advancing the company’s sales activities.

Messingschlager has also appointed Ralf Kinkel as OEM Sales Manager. Joining from Rotor Bike Components, Kinkel will oversee business relations with industrial customers and serve as a direct point of contact, primarily through on-site customer visits. His role will focus on helping customers identify the optimal price point while meeting their required quality standards, while further strengthening long-term partnerships.

The sales team is further reinforced by Gustav Orel, who joins as Junior Sales Manager. As a passionate athlete with strong local ties, Orel brings fresh perspectives and a strong connection to the cycling industry.

On the marketing side, long-time Messingschlager employee Tobias Wichert has taken over as Head of Marketing. In his new role, Wichert will continue to drive the company’s digitalization efforts while contributing fresh ideas and a modern approach to branding.

Supporting these efforts is Max Arnold, who joins as Media Designer & Social Media Manager. Having gained experience in both the sporting goods sector and a leading media agency, Arnold will focus on further developing the company’s digital communications and social media presence.

Commenting on the restructuring, CEO Christoph Bantle said that strengthening the organization with experienced industry experts is an important step toward securing the company’s future.

“Strengthening our ranks with outstanding industry experts and realigning our Sales and Marketing teams represents a crucial step toward ensuring Messingschlager’s future viability,” said Bantle. “We are deliberately investing in expertise, agility, and fresh ideas to enhance our market position—specifically by delighting our customers.”

Helmrich added that the new team structure will help the company continue meeting the demands of a constantly evolving market while creating opportunities for innovation and future growth.

Through the restructuring and the addition of experienced industry professionals, Messingschlager aims to strengthen its position as a reliable partner while creating new opportunities for innovation and long-term development.

From right to left: Christoph Helmrich (Director of Sales & Marketing), Gustav Orel (Junior Sales Manager), Gilles Schwanke-Bröker (Head of Sales), Max Arnold (Media Designer & Social Media Manager), Ralf Kinkel (OEM Sales Manager), and Tobias Wichert (Head of Marketing). Photo: Messingschlager