Thyssenkrupp AG, a global industrial technology leader, has announced key appointments to its Executive Board as part of a significant corporate realignment. Wilfried von Rath will succeed Oliver Burkhard as Chief Human Resources Officer on April 1, 2025, while Dr. Axel Hamann will step into the role of Chief Financial Officer on May 1, 2025. These strategic shifts aim to bolster the company’s growth and organizational transformation as it adapts to a rapidly changing industrial landscape.
At an extraordinary meeting held on March 18, 2025, the Supervisory Board of thyssenkrupp AG confirmed these high-profile appointments, which follow the announcement by Oliver Burkhard last November that he would be stepping down from his role as CHRO to focus on his new responsibilities as CEO of thyssenkrupp Marine Systems. The departure of Burkhard marks the beginning of an important transition for the company as it strives to reinforce its leadership in the global industrial sector.
The leadership shake-up also follows the departure of Dr. Jens Schulte, who had served as CFO since June 2024 and as interim CHRO from February 2025. Schulte’s resignation comes as he prepares for his next professional chapter at Deutsche Börse AG. With these appointments, thyssenkrupp is positioning itself to tackle the challenges ahead and further strengthen its competitive standing in a dynamic market.
A Deeper Look at the New Leaders
Wilfried von Rath: A Seasoned HR Professional
Wilfried von Rath will officially begin his new role as CHRO on April 1, 2025. With over 20 years of leadership experience in human resources, von Rath brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He has previously held senior positions at major companies such as Volkswagen and MAN Energy Solutions, where he played a pivotal role in human resources strategy and organizational development. Most recently, von Rath served as Managing Partner at Lynius GmbH, a Munich-based consultancy focused on corporate restructuring and strategic management. His expertise in human resources management, labor relations, and executive development positions him as an ideal fit to guide thyssenkrupp through this critical phase of transformation.
Dr. Axel Hamann: A Financial Strategist with M&A Expertise
Dr. Axel Hamann will join thyssenkrupp as CFO on May 1, 2025, bringing with him extensive experience in corporate finance, mergers, and acquisitions. Hamann comes from Bayer AG, where he held multiple leadership positions, including Head of Global M&A and Head of Internal Audit & Risk Management. Prior to his tenure at Bayer, Hamann served as CFO of Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals Division and led the project for the IPO of Covestro, a global chemicals company. With his deep financial expertise and strategic leadership experience, Hamann is well-equipped to guide thyssenkrupp’s financial direction and support its long-term growth objectives.
Strategic Corporate Realignment
The appointments of von Rath and Hamann come at a time when thyssenkrupp is undergoing a significant corporate realignment. This restructuring is focused on reshaping the company’s portfolio, improving performance, and enhancing its competitive edge in the global market. Prof. Siegfried Russwurm, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, expressed confidence in the new appointments, noting that both von Rath and Hamann are well-qualified to steer the company through its transformation process.
As thyssenkrupp continues to evolve, the company is working to optimize its organizational structure, streamline operations, and ensure that it remains at the forefront of industrial innovation. The leadership changes reflect the company’s commitment to adapting to the rapidly changing business environment and maximizing growth opportunities in the years ahead.
Key Takeaways:
• Wilfried von Rath appointed as Chief Human Resources Officer, effective April 1, 2025.
• Dr. Axel Hamann will take on the role of Chief Financial Officer, effective May 1, 2025.
• Both von Rath and Hamann bring extensive leadership experience from top companies like Volkswagen, MAN Energy Solutions, and Bayer AG.
• These leadership changes align with thyssenkrupp’s broader strategy of corporate restructuring and performance improvement.
• Wilfried von Rath brings expertise in human resources management, labor relations, and organizational development.
• Dr. Axel Hamann has a background in corporate finance, M&A, and global strategic management.
• The leadership transition is part of thyssenkrupp’s efforts to maintain global competitiveness and strengthen its industrial performance.
• Prof. Siegfried Russwurm, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, highlighted the importance of transformational leadership at this pivotal stage.
These strategic leadership changes signal thyssenkrupp's commitment to adapting to market shifts and positioning itself for continued success in the industrial sector.
