Dr. Mathias Dobner is a seasoned executive with nearly 30 years of experience in port technology and container handling systems. After earning his doctorate in mechanical engineering, he left his role as a research associate at RWTH Aachen University to dedicate his career to advancing and leading innovative container handling technologies.
He began his professional journey in 1996 at the former Mannesmann DEMAG AG and went on to hold key leadership roles, including CEO of Gottwald Port Technology GmbH and Demag Cranes AG, as well as Vice President of R&D and Operations at TEREX Port Solutions. In 2018, Dr. Dobner transitioned from Konecranes to SMS group GmbH, where he served as Vice President of Container Handling Systems. From 2018 to 2023, he was the first CEO of BOXBAY, a joint venture between SMS and DP World, which aims to revolutionize container handling in ports. Since 2023, Dr. Dobner has taken on the role of Chairman of BOXBAY.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Dobner has been a driving force in the introduction of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Automated Stacking Cranes (ASCs) to container terminals, setting new benchmarks in port automation. His efforts have been crucial in the development and enhancement of several prominent terminals, including ECT, Euromax, and Rotterdam World Gateway, as well as CTA in Hamburg and Long Beach Container Terminal in the USA.
Dr. Dobner is committed to creating customer-focused solutions by integrating industrial technologies and global innovation trends into port logistics. His in-depth understanding of terminal interfaces, environmental conditions, and material flow complexities has shaped his holistic approach to system design—an approach he considers vital for achieving operational excellence in modern container terminals.
