In 2002, Lichtinger and Dr Markus Preußner stepped into joint leadership and, together with Kenes Intl., took over the company from its founder Toni Kössl. This transition laid the foundation for a sustainable and forward-thinking corporate structure. Under their stewardship, Interplan evolved from a purely German PCO into a European player – while maintaining a solid domestic base. Today, Interplan has over 120 employees. Long-standing clients such as the German Societies for Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Gastroenterology, and Pain Medicine have remained loyal since the early 1990s – a source of particular pride for Lichtinger:
“It proves that we truly live the values we represent – and that our clients sense and appreciate that.”
Lichtinger is regarded as the hands-on practitioner on the board – someone who rolls up his sleeves, thrives on operational challenges, and places top priority on quality and client satisfaction.
“Every now and then I still wish I were a project manager – on site, in the thick of it, instead of only advising from the sidelines,” he says with a smile. His grounded approach, paired with clarity and objectivity, has made him a valued mentor to many within the company.
He is especially proud of the Interplan team:
“Our employees are a skilled and passionate group who approach their work with genuine enthusiasm. Many have been with us for years and have found their professional home here. They are trusted partners for our clients – respected, involved, and empowered to shape the way we work.”
In 2014, the appointment of several colleagues to the extended executive team marked the creation of a future-oriented leadership structure – a milestone Lichtinger played a key role in shaping. During challenging periods, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the board stood firmly by its staff. Not a single employee was laid off; instead, the time was used to reposition the company and emerge stronger.
“The unthinkable happened – and we pulled together and made the best of it.”
Looking ahead, Bruno Lichtinger plans to scale back slightly, but will remain on the board in the medium term. He is confident:
“The colleagues currently in leadership will continue to guide Interplan into the future – with the same values that have made us strong. Even without dinosaurs like me, Interplan will continue to play a leading role in our industry.”
