Martin Kleban has stepped into his new role as Director at the German Tanners Association VDL, taking over from Andreas Meyer who will soon retire.

Previously, Kleban was Head of Product Safety, Regulatory and Quality Management Systems at TFL Group where he managed a global team of twelve employees across Europe, India and China.

He oversaw a portfolio of more than 1,500 chemical formulations produced at seven sites in Europe, Asia and South America.

In his first statement after joining, Kleban reflected on the ongoing debates around consumer goods and sustainability on LinkedIn recently.

He questioned whether people truly want products designed only for disposal or ones that deliver high performance and long-lasting value. For him, leather remains unmatched as a material that combines comfort, durability and health benefits.

Kleban highlighted key qualities that set leather apart. He explained that leather adapts to the shape it protects and provides lasting comfort, something synthetic materials cannot fully achieve.

Its natural collagen structure gives it tear strength and resilience, ensuring durability even after thousands of flexes.

He also emphasized leather’s natural breathability which allows moisture and air to pass through while preventing liquids from penetrating, making it healthier and more hygienic for users.

“Leather is a wonderful material and has been so for thousands of years. Making leather and goods from it combines industry, craftsmanship and art, and it takes special people to do that. And those who know what they do can produce leather in a way perfectly sustainable for humans, environment and economy”

Martin Kleban, Director, German Tanners Association VDL

Kleban said he has met many skilled professionals in the field and is committed to representing them and their craft in the years ahead.