Franz Steinkühler
Franz Steinkühler is a German business consultant and former trade union leader.
Born in Würzburg, Steinkühler completed an apprenticeship as a toolmaker, then trained in business development with REFA. He joined IG Metall and the Social Democratic Party in the early 1950s, and in 1963 became the Stuttgart district secretary of the union, succeeding Willi Bleicher. In 1972, he became the union's Baden-Württemberg district manager, gaining a reputation as a strong negotiator. He also led strikes for the "humanisation" work, such as including appropriate breaks.
In 1983, Steinkühler became vice president of IG Metall, then in 1986, he became president. In 1990, while the union was under his leadership, it achieved an agreement for the gradual implementation of a 35-hour week. From 1987, he also served as president of the International Metalworkers' Federation.
Steinkühler also served on the board of Daimler-Benz, and in 1993, he was accused of insider dealing while in that role. In response, he left all his trade union positions, and became a freelance business and wealth consultant.
