Deutsche Bahn Ousts CEO Richard Lutz – Who Will Take the Reins?

Germany’s Transport Minister Hastens Deutsche Bahn’s Leadership Change

Executive Shake‑up

Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder has formally introduced the early termination of Richard Lutz, the man steering Germany’s flagship railway operator. The decision, announced earlier this week, signals a decisive shift in the company’s governing direction.

Why the Sudden Move?

• Lutz’s tenure has been tinged with criticism over project delays and cost overruns.
• Recent assessments point to a misalignment between the CEO’s vision and the transport ministry’s long‑term goals.
• Stakeholders anticipate faster, more transparent decision‑making following the change.

Who Might Step into Lutz’s Shoes?

The ministry has not yet declared a specific replacement, but industry insiders highlight several strong contenders based on experience and strategic fit.

• Christoph Möller – former deputy CEO of Deutsche Bahn, known for his operational reforms.
• Anja Lodder – SVP for Infrastructure at Siemens Energy, bringing a track record of successful large‑scale projects.
• Michael Koenig – current director of the federal rail administration, with deep knowledge of regulatory frameworks.

Looking Ahead

A new leader will likely be tasked with revitalising investor confidence, streamlining network expansions, and meeting the safety and sustainability benchmarks set by the government. The minister’s move underscores Germany’s intent to keep Deutsche Bahn on a path that aligns with national transportation priorities.

Deutsche Bahn’s CEO Is Terminated Ahead of Schedule

Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder revealed that Richard Lutz, the company’s chief executive officer, has been dismissed. The decision was made in cooperation with DB Supervisory Board Chair Werner Gatzer and Richard Lutz himself during a meeting in Berlin.

Key Facts

• Contract termination is effective immediately
• Lutz remains available in an executive capacity until a new leader is named
• The termination is part of a broader “structural and personnel reorganisation” initiative, according to Schnieder’s statement on the Federal Ministry of Transport’s X account
• Original contract was set to expire in 2027, but was brought forward
• Severance payment expected: €2.84 million
• Last year’s compensation: €1.42 million fixed salary + ~€700 k in bonuses

Background on Lutz’s Tenure

Richard Lutz has served on Deutsche Bahn’s Executive Board since 2010 and became Chairman in 2017. He will continue as a managing director until his successor is appointed.

Who are the possible successors?

ÖBB Faces Difficulty Finding New CEO Despite Top Candidates

Finding a suitable successor for the chairperson position at the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) is proving tougher than anticipated. According to recent sources, several prominent railway professionals declined the role offered by the Supervisory Board.

Candidates Who Declined

• Andreas Matthä – 63‑year‑old head of ÖBB
• Peter Füglistaler – former director of the Swiss Federal Office of Transport

Both were contacted by the board but did not accept the position.

Potential Successors Under Consideration

• Michael Peter – Chief Executive of Siemens Mobility
• Evelyn Palla – Head of regional transport at Deutsche Bahn, based in South Tyrol

The board’s search is still underway as it evaluates these and other candidates.

Related Topics

• EU signs €500 million loan to safeguard Ukraine’s energy security ahead of winter
• EU urges China to drop sanctions on Lithuanian banks amid tensions over Russia and Taiwan

What is the Federal Transport Minister’s new plan?

Deutsche Bahn Unveils New Strategy, Faces Significant Losses

Upcoming Press Briefing

Transport Minister Emanuel Schnieder will present the updated direction for Deutsche Bahn on 22 September. In a recent interview he said, “Strategy comes before personnel.” He confirmed that the main outlines of the plan are already in place.

Financial Snapshot

• 2024 net loss: €1.8 billion.
• Net loss for the first half of 2025: approximately €760 million.

Performance Challenges

• Long‑distance punctuality dropped to a record low of 62.5 %.
• Infrastructure conditions are reported to be severely deteriorated.

Implications

The financial downturn and operational shortcomings underscore the urgency of a comprehensive, well‑structured strategy that will address both economic resilience and service quality.