United Internet AG will undergo a change in its management board, as Chief Financial Officer Carsten Theurer has decided to leave the company when his contract expires on December 31, 2026. The supervisory board and CEO Ralph Dommermuth expressed regret over the decision, according to a press release distributed via NEWMEDIAWIRE. The announcement outlines a carefully managed succession plan, with Andre Driesen set to become the new CFO effective November 1, 2026, ensuring a two-month overlap for a smooth handover.
Theurer’s departure marks the end of a tenure in which he played a key role in advancing the group’s finance organization, corporate governance, capital market communications, and shared service structures. Philipp von Bismarck, speaking on behalf of the supervisory board, thanked Theurer for his “excellent and trusting cooperation” and credited him with providing important impetus for the group’s financial development. Theurer said he was grateful for the trust placed in him and described his work shaping the United Internet Group as “a special and highly rewarding task.” He added that he believes the group is well positioned for future development and looks forward to applying his experience in new entrepreneurial contexts, while remaining connected to the group as a member of the supervisory board of IONOS Group SE.
Andre Driesen brings extensive finance, corporate management, and M&A experience to the role. As former CFO of Drillisch AG and later 1&1 Drillisch AG, he supported major strategic transactions and the merger of Drillisch and 1&1 through the end of 2019. His long history within the group means he is already familiar with United Internet’s structures and key business fields. In recent years, he has worked as an independent consultant and held supervisory positions. The appointment is seen as part of United Internet’s ongoing effort to develop its organizational structure and focus its holding company functions.
United Internet AG is a leading European internet specialist with over 30 million fee-based customer contracts and over 38 million ad-financed free accounts. The company operates a high-performance “Internet Factory” with around 10,400 employees and owns well-known brands such as 1&1, IONOS, STRATO, GMX, and WEB.DE. The leadership transition comes as the group continues to emphasize operational excellence and a strong brand portfolio across Europe.
For investors and industry observers, the change at the top of United Internet’s finance function is significant because it touches on corporate governance, capital market strategy, and the group’s holding structure. A smooth succession is critical for maintaining confidence in the company’s financial stewardship, especially given the scale of its operations and its role in the European internet market. The appointment of a seasoned insider like Driesen may reassure stakeholders that strategic continuity will be preserved. The original release can be viewed on www.newmediawire.com.
