Helmut Köhler Stein, former Kaufmann executive, dies at 90

Helmut Köhler Stein, a key figure in the Chilean automotive and transport industry, has passed away at the age of 90. Born in Germany in 1936, Köhler Stein moved to Chile in 1960 after being recruited by Walter Kaufmann to manage sales for a company that then employed only 23 people.

After assuming the role of general manager in 1966, he led the company through significant milestones, including a historic contract to supply 1,000 buses for national public transport. During the economic crisis of the 1980s, he expanded the company's branch network and strengthened its after-sales services. He also pioneered direct vehicle financing in the local market.

Köhler Stein was instrumental in the company's international expansion, including the launch of operations in Peru, which evolved into Divemotor. He remained a director of the firm until 2022, having helped transform Kaufmann into a major industry leader with over 1,000 employees.