Thomas Coesfeld to Become Bertelsmann Chairman-CEO

In a significant announcement early Thursday, the supervisory board of Bertelsmann revealed a forthcoming leadership transition, appointing Thomas Coesfeld as the future Chairman and CEO. The 35-year-old, who currently serves on the Bertelsmann Executive Board, is set to take over from Thomas Rabe on January 1, 2027. This change will conclude Rabe's 15-year tenure at the helm of the global media conglomerate when his contract expires at the end of 2026.

This leadership renewal is part of a broader executive realignment within the diversified media group, which holds interests in television, publishing, and music. In a related appointment, Clément Schwebig will join the Bertelsmann Executive Board and is scheduled to assume the role of CEO at RTL Group from May 1, 2026. Christoph Mohn, Chairman of the Bertelsmann Supervisory Board, voiced strong support for Coesfeld, emphasizing his demonstrated entrepreneurial and managerial abilities. "Over the past decade, I have observed Thomas Coesfeld mature into a true entrepreneurial leader," Mohn commented. "Under his direction, BMG has achieved substantial growth in both revenue and earnings, firmly establishing the music company for success in the streaming era."

Coesfeld, who became CEO of the BMG music division in 2023 and joined the Bertelsmann Executive Board the following year, is now positioned to lead a crucial generational shift. His elevation reflects a broader trend among leading European corporations to cultivate younger executives capable of steering traditional businesses through digital transformation. As one industry analyst observed, "Established firms such as Bertelsmann must integrate new viewpoints to successfully manage the intersection of content and technology—a complex undertaking that requires leaders who are adept in both business strategy and digital innovation."

Bertelsmann, founded in 1835 as a hymn publisher, has evolved into one of the world's largest media enterprises, with operations spanning over 50 countries and brands that include Penguin Random House and the RTL Group. This planned succession underscores the company's long-standing emphasis on stable, forward-looking governance.

Outgoing CEO Thomas Rabe fully endorsed the board's selection, citing the effective and trusting working relationship he has established with Coesfeld. "My main objective is to guarantee a seamless handover," Rabe affirmed. "I am confident that Bertelsmann's future is in capable hands under his leadership and that of his colleagues." In response, Coesfeld expressed gratitude for the confidence shown by the supervisory board and Christoph Mohn. "I look forward to taking on the responsibility of guiding Bertelsmann into its next chapter," he stated, "and I am certain that, with the unified effort of the Executive Board, senior leadership, and all employees, we will rise to meet this challenge."