S tephan Schnabel is a German billionaire who is a key member of the family that owns and controls the Helm AG, a massive and highly diversified chemical distribution and marketing company based in Hamburg. The company was founded by his ancestor and has been under the family's control for generations. Helm is one of the largest privately held chemical companies in the world.

The company operates as a major global distributor of a wide range of chemical products, from industrial chemicals and pharmaceuticals to fertilizers and crop protection products. The family's wealth is derived from their ownership of this massive, privately held global enterprise. Stephan, as a member of the current generation, has been deeply involved in the company's management, serving as the chairman of the executive board. He has been responsible for guiding the company's long-term strategy and its continued global expansion.