Deutsche Börse AG’s Supervisory Board has officially appointed Dr. Stephan Leithner as the company’s Chief Executive Officer, effective from October 1, 2024. This strategic appointment positions Dr. Leithner to co-lead the company alongside the current CEO, Dr. Theodor Weimer, until the latter’s retirement at the end of 2024. Dr. Weimer, who has been instrumental in navigating the company through periods of uncertainty and achieving robust growth, will be stepping down following his retirement, marking the end of a remarkable tenure.
Dr. Stephan Leithner, 57, brings a wealth of experience and an in-depth understanding of the financial markets to his new role as CEO. Since joining Deutsche Börse AG’s Executive Board in 2018, Dr. Leithner has been pivotal in driving the company’s pre- and post-trading operations, including overseeing the Investment Management Solutions segment and the post-trading business with Clearstream. His leadership has been marked by strategic innovations and a deep commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the market and the company’s clientele.
Prior to his tenure at Deutsche Börse AG, Dr. Leithner’s career spanned significant roles, including Partner at EQT, a leading venture capital firm, and various strategic and leadership positions at Deutsche Bank AG, where he was instrumental in developing the capital markets and M&A business. His rich background in finance is complemented by an academic foundation from the University of St. Gallen, where he completed his studies and doctorate.
Martin Jetter, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Deutsche Börse AG, expressed confidence in Dr. Leithner’s appointment, citing his proven expertise in capital markets and his significant contributions to the strategic development of the company. Under Dr. Leithner’s leadership, Deutsche Börse is expected to continue its trajectory of innovation and growth, building on the solid foundation laid by Dr. Weimer and his team.
As he prepares to take on his new responsibilities, Dr. Leithner expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him by the Supervisory Board and enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead Deutsche Börse into its next chapter of growth and innovation. Acknowledging the achievements and strategic direction set by Dr. Weimer, Dr. Leithner is committed to further advancing Deutsche Börse’s business model and exploring new potentials within the company and the broader market.
Dr. Theodor Weimer’s leadership tenure at Deutsche Börse has been marked by significant achievements, including annual growth in net sales and EBITDA by an average of 13 percent. His strategic vision and leadership have reinstated the company’s confidence and public trust, setting a high bar for his successor.
As Deutsche Börse AG embarks on this new phase of leadership under Dr. Stephan Leithner, stakeholders and the market alike watch with anticipation for the innovative strategies and growth trajectories that will define the future of one of the world’s leading stock exchange organizations.
