René Obermann Set to Lead SAP's Supervisory Board

René Obermann, the former CEO of Deutsche Telekom, is poised to take the helm of SAP's supervisory board. According to the current chair, Pekka Ala-Pietilä, Obermann is expected to be elected to the board next year and subsequently assume the chairmanship in the following year.

In a letter to shareholders in anticipation of the upcoming annual meeting, Ala-Pietilä highlighted Obermann's extensive international career as a key qualification for this role. He noted that Obermann has a wealth of experience, having served as a company founder, former CEO of Deutsche Telekom, chair of Airbus's supervisory board, and as Europe head for the American private equity firm Warburg Pincus. Obermann is recognized for his strategic foresight, market insight, leadership skills, and managerial experience, all critical for the responsibilities of a supervisory board chair.

Ala-Pietilä's term is set to conclude in 2026. The former Nokia executive, who has spent years on the supervisory board, stepped in as chair in 2024 following a failed succession plan for SAP's founder, Hasso Plattner. The board originally selected Punit Renjen, the former CEO of Deloitte, to lead the company into a new era post-Plattner, but the arrangement did not materialize as expected.

During the transition period, differing perspectives on the role of the supervisory board chair emerged, leading to a mutual separation between the board and Renjen--a notable setback in corporate governance. Ala-Pietilä was considered a transitional figure from the onset.

One of the key questions surrounding Obermann's new role will be whether he will maintain his other positions, particularly as chair of Airbus's supervisory board. At 62 years old and married to television host Maybrit Illner, Obermann is known for his assertive personality and strong opinions. He earned the nickname "T-Rex" during his tenure at Telekom, reflecting his commanding presence.

Obermann led Deutsche Telekom from 2006 until 2013 and has been the chair of Airbus's supervisory board since 2020. His upcoming role at SAP signifies a significant shift in leadership for one of Europe's most valuable corporations.