Bertelsmann Foundation bids farewell to Ametsreiter - Leader of Bertelsmann Foundation
The Bertelsmann Foundation, a leading non-profit organisation focused on education, democracy, sustainability, and digitalization, is undergoing a change of leadership. Hannes Ametsreiter, who has been at the helm of the foundation, is stepping down as chairman of the board at the end of July.
Ametsreiter's departure comes after a successful tenure that saw him return to business tasks, having previously served as the top manager of Vodafone Germany. Under his leadership, Vodafone Germany flourished, boasting over 16,000 employees and a turnover of 13 billion euros.
Brigitte Mohn, a member of the founding family, will temporarily lead the Bertelsmann Foundation until a permanent successor is appointed. Wilfried Uhr, who has been in various management positions at the Gütersloh foundation since 2000, is joining the management board to assist during this transition period.
The Bertelsmann Foundation, which shares ownership with the Mohn family over the Bertelsmann group, is based in Gütersloh. The economic success of the Bertelsmann group influences the budget of the foundation, which stood at 70 million euros in 2024. The foundation currently employs 334 people across locations in Gütersloh, Berlin, and Brussels.
Daniela Schwarzer remains on the board of the Bertelsmann Foundation. As of the latest information available, no publicly stated replacement has been named to take over as chairman of the board following Ametsreiter's departure. The search results list several executives and board members associated with Bertelsmann and related entities but do not mention a change in the chairmanship of the Bertelsmann Foundation board or name a successor to Hannes Ametsreiter.
The Bertelsmann group, a global media, services, and education company, is known for its extensive portfolio, which includes Penguin Random House, Gruner + Jahr, and RTL Group. The group's success is a testament to the effective leadership and strategic vision of its members, and the Bertelsmann Foundation continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of education, democracy, sustainability, and digitalization.
[1] Bertelsmann AG Annual Report 2024 [4] Bertelsmann AG Company Presentation 2025
The Bertelsmann Foundation, in its mission to shape the future of education, democracy, sustainability, and digitalization, may introduce new initiatives such as community policy or vocational training programs, as it continues to align with the strategic vision of the Bertelsmann group, which operates in industries like finance, business, and the media. The appointment of a new chairman of the board, following the departure of Hannes Ametsreiter, could potentially bring fresh insights to the foundation's programs, particularly in areas like vocational training and guidance, given their practical applications in various industries.
