Herbert Schmitz (1936–2024) - Leadership Lessons from a Giant.

There is a tremendous amount to celebrate and learn from when looking at Herbert’s career – contributions to the business and legacy in terms of the values he instilled in generations of young people.

Herbert had one of the most remarkable, global careers, joining P&G in Germany in 1966 and holding leadership positions across the USA, Austria, Scandinavia, Mexico, France, the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe. Perhaps his most notable contribution was spearheading P&G’s expansion into Central and Eastern Europe, recognizing the region’s potential.

I first met Herbert in 1987 in Paris, where he was the outgoing General Manager, and began working with him in 1995. At a time of personal doubt after turning down two assignments, Herbert reached out: “I’m offering you an assignment in Eastern Europe—based in Moscow. You’ll start as Marketing Director and become General Manager. This will be crucial for P&G and for rekindling your passion for the company.” The rest is history, with Maria and me cherishing our Moscow years as one of life’s highlights.

Herbert was a giant in every sense—his presence unmistakable, his intellect immense, his heart even bigger. While he kept discussions short and to the point, with questions like, “How much have we shipped today?” or “What have you done for the company today?” and the classic, “Should I worry when I see you?”, Herbert’s mind was razor-sharp and strategic. Behind his sometimes gruff exterior was a scholar, holding both a Master’s and Ph.D. in Economics from top universities in Germany, Austria, and France.

Most remarkable was Herbert’s deep care for people. He took personal responsibility for others’ careers, even at junior levels. During the Russian crisis, he didn’t just consider numbers; he cared about people. Herbert and John Pepper were instrumental in keeping P&G in Russia during the 1998–1999 economic collapse when many competitors exited—a brilliant strategic decision that still strengthens P&G in the region.

Herbert’s legacy lives on through the values he embodied:

1. Transparency – Do as you say, say what you do, and keep it simple—“Shipments are strategic.”
2. Courage and Ownership – Take personal responsibility; if you don’t, how can you expect others to?
3. Care for People – Take care of your people, and they will take care of the business.
4. Perseverance – Work hard but enjoy the journey.
5. Humility – Herbert let results speak for themselves; he never bragged.

Over nearly 40 years of knowing Herbert, I understood he had Only two great love stories: his wife, Monica, his partner since university, and the P&G company and its people.

Rest in peace, Herbert. You will be remembered and missed forever.

Stassi Anastassov