Spiesshofer joined ABB's Executive Committee in 2005 and was named responsible for DM in 2009. He has led a doubling of the division's revenues by organic and inorganic means, and the integration of Baldor - ABB's largest ever acquisition. He has increased profit margins through a turnaround in Robotics, as well as the profitable growth and relentless execution of the motors and drives activities.

"I am excited about the opportunity to lead ABB and serving our customers building on Joe's success," said Spiesshofer. "I am looking forward to keep working with all my colleagues in the Executive Committee and the entire ABB team. Together, we will continue to drive profitable growth and relentless execution for the company."

Before joining ABB, Spiesshofer spent three years at Roland Berger Strategy Consultants and 11 years at A.T. Kearney management consultants, where he built successful consulting businesses in industries including oil and gas, utilities, telecoms and automotive, in Europe, Asia and the Americas. He has a master's degree in Business Administration and Engineering, and a PhD in Economics, both from the University of Stuttgart, Germany.