Hans Lauda (born 11 February 1896 in Vienna, Austria-Hungary; died 9 January 1974 in Vienna, Austria) was an Austrian industrialist and paper manufacturer. He is best known for his leading role in the Austrian paper industry and as the paternal grandfather of three-time Formula One World Champion Niki Lauda.
Industrial Career Lauda studied at the Technical University of Vienna. He joined the family business, the paper manufacturing company Lauda & Comp., which had been founded by his father, Hans Lauda Sr. Under his leadership, the company expanded significantly. He served as the President of the Federation of Austrian Paper Industries (Verband der österreichischen Papierindustrie) and held various positions in Austrian industrial associations, including the Federation of Austrian Industry (Verband der Industriellen Österreichs). He was instrumental in the post-World War II reconstruction of the Austrian paper industry.
Public Service and Honors Lauda was active in the Austrian economic chambers and served as a commercial counselor (Kommerzialrat). He received several Austrian state decorations for his contributions to industry, including the Grand Decoration of Honour in Gold for Services to the Republic of Austria (Großes Goldenes Ehrenzeichen für Verdienste um die Republik Österreich).
Family He was married to Käthe Lauda (née Reisch). Their son, Hans Lauda Jr. (1926–2013), was a lawyer and industrial manager. His grandson, Andreas Nikolaus "Niki" Lauda (1949–2019), became a world-renowned Formula One driver and aviation entrepreneur.
