Leadership Transition at Siemens: Bäumler Succeeds Steinborn as Head of Works Council

A significant change has occurred at the helm of the Siemens Gesamtbetriebsrat, with Birgit Steinborn stepping down after an impressive eleven-and-a-half years as the foremost representative for employees. This transition was officially announced by the council, which has chosen Tobias Bäumler, her former deputy, as the new leader. Bäumler, who represents the workforce at the Karlsruhe site, will assume his new responsibilities at the end of the month. Despite her departure from the council's leadership, Steinborn will retain her position as deputy chairwoman of the supervisory board.

Reflecting on her tenure, Steinborn noted that it has been a period marked by significant changes, during which the council achieved considerable progress for employees. Her time in office coincided with pivotal moments for Siemens, including the spin-off of Siemens Energy and Siemens Healthineers, as well as ongoing challenges such as job reductions and plant closures.

In her view, it was crucial to pass the leadership baton to a new generation ahead of the upcoming works council elections. Bäumler expressed his commitment to further advancing the Gesamtbetriebsrat and representing the interests of Siemens employees effectively.

Jürgen Kerner, the second chairman of IG Metall, praised both Bäumler and his newly elected deputy, Stefanie Lengfelder, stating they are well-suited to enhance employee representation at Siemens in the future. He also commended Steinborn for her pragmatic approach, emphasizing her unwavering focus on the welfare of workers.

Siemens' human resources chief, Judith Wiese, acknowledged Steinborn's contributions, highlighting their constructive collaboration during negotiations. She noted that both parties always prioritized the success of the employees and the company.

Steinborn is recognized as a dedicated official who advocated for the interests of Siemens employees through logical and persistent efforts, rather than through confrontational tactics, even during turbulent times.