RAG CFO's Past Ties to Fraud-Accused Entrepreneur Raise Questions
Jürgen-Johann Rupp, a 68-year-old lawyer, has been serving as the Chief Financial Officer of the RAG Foundation since 2019. His career spans the legal and regulatory fields, with a notable connection to entrepreneur René Benko, who faces multiple fraud charges.
Rupp's legal background includes working in the legal departments of an association and an energy company. He also spent time in the management of the former mining conglomerate RAG in Essen. His loyalty to the RAG Foundation's chairman is well-known.
Rupp's connection to René Benko, a prominent real estate entrepreneur, is intriguing. Benko, arrested in January 2025, stands accused of large-scale fraud, insolvency delay, and money laundering. Investigations suggest he led a mafia-like organization to secure permits in Northern Italy, causing at least one billion euros in damage. His wife Nathalie is also implicated in some proceedings.
Rupp's past connection to René Benko raises questions about his judgement, given Benko's alleged criminal activities. However, Rupp's unwavering loyalty to the RAG Foundation's chairman and his extensive legal career suggest a commitment to his professional duties. The foundation will likely review these matters as they relate to Rupp's role as CFO.
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