Jan Wachtel Named New Burda Media CEO in 2026
Burda Media, a leading European media company, has announced Jan Wachtel as its new CEO, effective January 1, 2026. Wachtel, who has held prominent roles at media houses like Bild and RTL Germany, expresses enthusiasm for his new challenge at Burda.
Wachtel will succeed Philipp Welte, who will transition to the supervisory board after successfully expanding Burda's publishing news. Hubert Burda paid tribute to Welte's achievements, highlighting his contributions to the company's growth.
Wachtel brings a strong track record and a participatory leadership style to Burda. He will oversee all publishing activities, including subsidiaries like Burda Verlag, Burda Forward, Burda Druck, and international news operations. With around 5,500 employees across 16 countries, Wachtel's role will be pivotal in shaping Burda's future.
Elisabeth Burda Furtwängler, a shareholder and board member, praised Wachtel's appointment, citing his experience and vision. Wachtel himself is eager to take on the challenge, with Burda's publishing news generating approximately 1.37 billion euros in sales in 2024.
Jan Wachtel's appointment as Burda Media's new CEO signals a new chapter for the company. With his proven leadership and enthusiasm, he is well-positioned to drive Burda's publishing news forward, building on the success of his predecessor.
