German CEO Excellence Awards 2025 Jürgen Ruff of the namesake juergen.ruff.consulting brings more than three decades of professional experience in international companies to the table, as well as over 20 years of expertise serving as an independent trainer, consultant, and coach. A leader in the fields of digital transformation and change management, Jürgen specialises in the topics of mental fitness, organisational development, and leadership, areas of focus that allow him to strengthen his clients’ resolve and ensure their enduring success. Digital Transformation CEO of the Year 2025 – Europe & Most Dedicated Mental Fitness Coaching Specialist 2025 German CEO Excellence Awards 2025 German CEO Excellence Awards 2025
AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility. The German CEO Excellence Awards 2025, hosted by EU Business News, returns for the 4th consecutive year to celebrate the outstanding leadership shown across Germany’s diverse business sectors. Over the past year, German industries have faced a range of challenges and opportunities. The economy experienced a slowdown, with reduced domestic demand and cautious investment as businesses navigated higher financing costs. The manufacturing sector, a cornerstone of Germany’s economy, faced capacity reductions, particularly in mechanical engineering and automotive production. Nevertheless, innovation has remained a key focus. Digital transformation continues to reshape industries, with advanced technologies improving efficiency and enabling businesses to adapt to changing markets. The energy transition, or “Energiewende,” underscores the nation’s commitment to sustainability, though it brings challenges in energy costs and supply stability. In this complex environment, effective leadership has been more crucial than ever and highlights the vital role of leadership in shaping Germany’s economic future. The German CEO Excellence Awards 2025, hosted by EU Business News, aims to showcase and place a figurative spotlight on the people that have found themselves responsible for guiding their businesses through one of the most turbulent positions the global economy has found itself in modern times! Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: www.eubusinessnews.com German CEO Excellence Awards 2025
5. juergen.ruff.consulting: Digital Transformation CEO of the Year 2025 – Europe & Most Dedicated Mental Fitness Coaching Specialist 2025 6. M&L AG: Big Data Solutions CEO of the Year 2025 & Innovators in Retail Management Systems 2025 8. ASAP Group: Automotive Engineering CEO of the Year 2025 10. Y-Core Consulting GmbH: Strategic Digital Transformation CEO of the Year 2025 & Award for Excellence in AI-Driven Enterprise Architecture 2025 12. HAMANN AG: Marine Engineering CEO of the Year 2025 13. Humanus Personalservice GmbH: Recruitment CEO of the Year 2025 14. RABB IT Solutions GmbH: IT Services CEO of the Year 2025 & Innovator in Secure Cloud & Managed Services 2025 15. compeople AG: Financial Services Digital Solutions CEO of the Year 2025 16. Sedgwick Germany: Claims Management CEO of the Year 2025 Contents
news Subscribe Here! Receive our quarterly newsletter direct to your inbox highlighting an overview of the world of European business.
Aug22136 5. Digital Transformation CEO of the Year 2025 – Europe & Most Dedicated Mental Fitness Coaching Specialist 2025 Jürgen Ruff of the namesake juergen.ruff.consulting brings more than three decades of professional experience in international companies to the table, as well as over 20 years of expertise serving as an independent trainer, consultant, and coach. A leader in the fields of digital transformation and change management, Jürgen specialises in the topics of mental fitness, organisational development, and leadership, areas of focus that allow him to strengthen his clients’ resolve and ensure their enduring success. Leveraging a degree in business administration, a deep passion for IT, and an array of certifications, Jürgen Ruff is on a mission to create a world where people are not only happier but also healthier. As a leader and visionary, Jürgen is dedicated to empowering employees, teams, and organizations to reach their full potential. A strong believer in the power of daily meditation and gratitude, Jürgen’s consulting firm embodies these principles, helping clients transform their operations and cultivate a culture of growth and well-being. At the heart of his approach is trust - an essential foundation for effective coaching. Jürgen’s business consulting services are delivered with openness, clarity, and a commitment to quality. These core values resonate throughout every aspect of juergen. ruff.consulting’s offerings, from individualized coaching and consulting sessions to specialized training like project management and risk management. In these sessions, Jürgen uncovers the untapped potential within individuals, sparking development and fostering growth. Jürgen’s client relationships begin with a casual, 30-minute virtual coffee, providing an opportunity for open exchange and ideasharing, completely free from obligation. From there, clients can choose from a variety of boot camps, workshops, and coaching sessions. A prime example is the six-week app-based Mental Fitness Boot Camp, where participants learn to challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with positive strategies, laying the groundwork for lasting success. The boot camp begins every Saturday and serves as a transformative journey for many of Jürgen’s clients. For those seeking something unique, Jürgen offers the Mental Fitness Meets Metaverse workshop, a groundbreaking four-hour experience combining mental fitness with the immersive world of virtual reality. By blending these two distinct fields, this workshop provides an innovative approach to building resilience and enhancing performance through cutting-edge technology. Outside of his consulting work, Jürgen hosts the Potenzialgestalter-Dialogues podcast, where he engages in insightful conversations with some of the brightest minds in the industry, including thought leaders like John Strelecky, Lasse Rheingans, and Professor Stefanie A. Schubert. With 88 episodes and counting, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to gain valuable insights into business and personal development. Available on Apple, Spotify, and SoundCloud, Potenzialgestalter-Dialogues continues to grow in popularity and influence. As the CEO of a one-person company, Jürgen knows that leading others begins with leading himself. To maintain his passion and effectiveness, he regularly engages in selfreflection, works with his own coach and mentor, and keeps up to date on emerging trends in digital transformation and mental fitness coaching. By focusing on what truly fulfills him, Jürgen ensures he remains deeply connected to his work and dedicated to guiding companies toward greatness. A firm believer in the value of long-term investment, Jürgen understands that companies must prioritize employee development even during prosperous times. While many businesses may cut costs by skipping these initiatives, those that invest in growth today will be better prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. By focusing on sustainable development over short-term savings, companies can position themselves for lasting success. At the core of juergen.ruff.consulting’s mission is the belief that it is never too late to make meaningful changes. Like a seed that gradually blossoms into fruit, the results of investment in personal and organizational development take time but are always worth the effort. With Jürgen committed to his work well into his 70s, clients who invest in his game-changing consulting solutions will have the opportunity to reap the rewards of his expertise and experience for years to come. Through his work, Jürgen is not only driving business transformation but also championing the principles of sustainability and the circular economy. His focus on these critical areas reflects his commitment to creating a better future, where both people and the planet thrive. As an advisor and member of several advisory boards, Jürgen remains an active advocate for environmental stewardship, recognizing that a commitment to sustainability is vital for longterm success. Contact: Jürgen Ruff Company: juergen.ruff.consulting Web Address: https://juergenruff.com/ Feb25065 juergen.ruff.consulting
EU Business News- German CEO Excellence Awards 2025 More than 30 years ago, Matthias Mauer and a group of equally talented data professionals established M&L AG, which even then possessed a keen focus on data and market analysis, which at the time made it revolutionary. Even then, more than three decades ago, the team behind the firm recognised the advantage data had for those businesses seeking to gain a unique edge, with this forward-looking approach resulting in the M&L AG securing several bigname companies and leading medium-sized enterprises as clients. Being responsible for such a coveted client portfolio from the very beginning, Matthias Mauer and the team here recognised the importance of continuing to meet their multifaceted and ever-evolving requirements, as well as delivering top-notch performance to ensure their faith in its abilities remained. To do this, Matthias Mauer, as founder and CEO, knew that the firm would have to be ahead of its time. Thus, rather than just focusing on conception, the M&L AG went one step further by implementing and supporting projects. Matthias Mauer himself tells us: “Our specialist expertise and consistent customerorientated approach are still key elements of our success today.” This in spite of the tremendous growth and endless evolution the firm has undergone since the mid-1990s. Of course, this reflects the industry itself, which today is defined by the likes of AI, IoT, CRM systems, and much more. Just as it has always done, the M&L AG not only advises clients on these new technologies, but it also implements them, maximising its clients’ chances of success. Thus, as this approach demonstrates, ‘consulting’ for M&L AG means much more than just what it says on the tin – it entails developing, coordinating, implementing, and supporting, which combine to make its clients’ Big Data Solutions CEO of the Year 2025 & Innovators in Retail Management Systems 2025 A full-service strategic management consultancy and solutions firm, M&L AG creates the tools that help businesses to reach that next level. From developing strategies and coordinating projects to offering consulting services and supporting information systems, M&L AG offers it all. However, the firm’s ultimate expertise from day one has been data, with its bespoke business intelligence systems offering security and transparency in a business world filled with complexity and high dynamics. AIS-Jan25046 successful. So as to perform all of this with the utmost efficiency, the firm leverages the potential of the existing data its clients have to hand. From this base, the firm supports his customers across their decision-making processes, identifying potential across sales, process, and purchasing optimisation channels. Levelling businesses up through its initiatives, M&L AG sees itself both as a commercial system and as a distinctly human company contributing to the improvement of lives. On the back of this, Matthias Mauer explains: “All our activities are based on the core values of the M&L Corporate Group: trust, striving for excellence, innovation, transparency, sustainability, tolerance, and quality. Our mission is to contribute to economic ethics and provide an impulse for fair and humane cooperation through our behaviour and ways of working.” “We are aware of our social responsibility to wider society and support charitable associations and nonprofit organisations. In this way, we want to set the example for shared responsibility and a sustainable future.” Alongside its industry-leading solutions and array of charitable initiatives, the thing the firm is most proud of its team, with its employees having been carefully selected based on their qualifications immersed in a culture of continuous learning and development. Striking a perfect balance between structure and agility when it comes to its processes and day-to-day operations, the team here are afforded the best environment in which to complete projects and simultaneously push boundaries. Firm in the belief that its team are the most valuable asset it has, M&L AG prides itself on being innovative, realistic, and making decisions based on fact. Its employees also embody these traits and they govern every project that is worked on. Making this possible is the company’s owner-managed nature, which sees it act responsibly, flexibly, and independently on the back of the values that Matthias himself holds dear and has woven into the company fabric. With Matthias Mauer being the man behind the innovation that M&L AG has continued to drive over the past few decades, it should come as no surprise that effective leadership has proven itself to be an equally vital component of the company’s enduring success, with its leadership in practice principle ensuring that management are approachable and involved in equal measure. Lifting spirits and promoting united growth, the approach Matthias Mauer has coined as CEO has positioned the business for long-term success in an unpredictable environment. Commenting on the events currently defining this space, Matthias Mauer says: “Companies are faced with the challenge of accessing relevant information in order to make solid decisions. This is increasingly becoming a critical factor everywhere in the world of business.” He continues: “In addition, innovative strength and investment in innovation are falling in Germany.” A firm that focuses on innovation, M&L AG helps clients transcend these trends and never miss an opportunity to take their businesses to unprecedented heights. As for the challenges Matthias Mauer has faced personally, he shares the difficulty of securing lasting economic stability whilst also M&L AG
7. Big Data Solutions CEO of the Year 2025 & Innovators in Retail Management Systems 2025 taking calculated risks worthy of the firm’s pioneering status. Of course, there have also been difficulties stemming from recessions and financial crises, but a strong culture and relentless drive has left the firm coming out the other side stronger than ever time and again. More recently, AI has too positioned itself as a challenge, but Matthias prefers to see it as more of an opportunity. Diving deeper into this, Matthias Mauer states: “For the rest of 2025 and beyond, our focus is on the diverse challenges in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) and the industrial internet of things (IIoT). We not only want to offer our customers innovative solutions; we also want to give them security in dealing with these new technologies through expert advice and support. Internally, this means building up targeted and sustainable skills and providing our entire team with comprehensive training in dealing with AI.” On the back of this, Matthias Mauer signs off by saying: “We are interested in organic growth together with our customers, but also in investing in interesting companies or integrating companies with complementary expertise into our group. Thus, we see ourselves more as an agile fleet association that can quickly adapt to the needs of the market and offer B2B solutions for customers in diversity of constellations, achieving competitive advantages for the customer.” Recognised here with a duo of awards, M&L AG has received acclaim throughout the years thanks to its smart data solutions and consultancy prowess, including being named as a Top Consultant a total of 14 times, as well as being named as one of the Top 100 Innovators and celebrated for its AI expertise. These awards reflect both a firm and a CEO on top of their games, making both M&L AG and Matthias Matthes worthy of inclusion in this programme. Company: M&L AG Web Address: https://www.mlconsult.com
Jul22546 EU Business News- German CEO Excellence Awards 2025 SAP was officially founded in 2007 and has had the same mission since Michael Neisen joined in the fall of 2009 – to embody engineering excellence and transform the automotive sector through a blend of innovation and passion. Today, the company is based in eight locations across Germany and boasts more than 1,600 employees of 50 different nationalities. These people are at the very heart of ASAP and make it truly unique, and it is thanks to them that the company has quickly risen up the ranks and become one of Germany’s premier automotive engineering partner. ASAP’s operation is built around five distinct service segments, with these covering Electrics/Electronics, Software, Consulting & Service, Test & Validation, and Vehicle Engineering. Across these areas, the focus remains on the industry’s future, especially when it comes to driving the technological advancements and creating the products which will soon come to define the automotive scene in both Germany and beyond. CEO Michael Neisen is an integral part of this success, with the role he has played since joining the team already in 2009 being instrumental in building the company up into the success story that it is today. A skilled automotive engineer in his own right, Michael studied the field and focused particular attention on body design during his time at the renowned Hamburg University of Applied Sciences. Completing his studies in 1990, Michael immediately made the leap into the industry, kickstarting an impressive career. Starting out as a development engineer at a large European engineering service provider at the Heilbronn plant, the great Automotive Engineering CEO of the Year 2025 The ASAP Group, a subsidiary of the international IT and software group HCLTech, proudly serves as a development partner for the ever-evolving automotive industry. Led by seasoned, awardwinning CEO Michael Neisen, the company’s encompassing service suite sees it specialise in autonomous driving, connectivity, and e-mobility solutions. By investing in new technologies to continuously diversify its portfolio, ASAP (Automotive Systems and Projects) not only serves its clients and its parent company well, but also meets the technological requirements of the automotive industry. We catch up with Michael to find out more. potential Michael had was quickly recognised. Just a few years later, he became manager of the same firm’s branch in Ingolstadt, taking over its duties to an important OEM in the process. Then, a decade after first walking in the door, Michael ascended to the managing director position. Welcoming in the new millennium by controlling the brand groups for several car manufacturer, Michael had established himself as a leader. Working then in this initial company as managing director with responsibility for various customers and the technology development within the group, a new challenge presented itself in 2009, with Michael joining the ASAP Group as both its CEO and the majority shareholder. To establish a strategic partnership, Michael and his Partner Gürsel Sen sold 35% of the shares to the German technology supplier ZF Friedrichshafen AG in 2018. ASAP’s integration into HCLTech Group five years later saw Michael’s position as a shareholder come to an end, allowing him to put all of his efforts into his CEO duties. Michael has been for more than 15 years the man responsible for the company’s strategic direction, as well as overseeing its ongoing development. One of the key elements of this involves ASAP’s global automotive engineering strategy, something it is implementing together with its parent company. Explaining what this strategy means exactly, Michael says: “This includes bringing HCLTech’s global sales units together with ASAP’s new business development unit, among other things, to achieve customer diversification.” Beyond the creation and delivery of this global strategy, ASAP’s partnership with HCLTech has helped it in other ways, such as A Contact: Michael Neisen Company: ASAP Group Web Address: https://www.asap.de/en/ Jan25377
9. integrating state-of-the-art technologies into vehicles and developing other cost-effective solutions. Be it system-on-chip or cloud-based offerings, the expertise and experience of ASAP’s parent company is able to be leveraged by the team here and developed into something accessible by the end customer. Serving as the ideal ‘front end’ for HCLTech’s technology competencies in this area as a result of its comprehensive OEM process and customer structure knowledge, ASAP blends many years of exceptional sector insights with a desire to innovative at every turn, resulting in a team who are in a great position to operate at the forefront of a realm that is currently in the midst of a major transformation. Spurring this shift on is the fact that, in today’s consumer environment, the car is becoming more of a ‘device’ than a vehicle. Therefore, as Michael tells us, “the field of software-defined vehicles (SDV) is becoming increasingly important.” Michael continues: “In the case of the SDV, HCLTech´s expertise in the areas of software, hardware, cloud technologies und IT infrastructure means that we are optimally equipped to the OEM requirements.” Such developments are significant for ASAP’s collaboration with HCLTech, as the latter has primarily operated in industries outside the automotive space, with a focus on IT and software. Combined, the two companies can pool their resources and better integrate vehicles into society’s future infrastructure. Despite the importance of technology in ASAP’s future, the company remains committed to reinforcing the human element of its service, with this joining the likes of authenticity and competency as its core values. Aligning his team with these values is the very essence of the approach to leadership Michael takes. This, along with the six management guidelines created to ensure management and employees remain on the right track, has resulted in the company carving out a reputation for itself as reliable and transparent. Reflecting on his 15-plus years with the company, Michael references ZF acquiring its 35% stake as personal highlights, with the collaborations brought about by these huge deals paving the way for ASAP to speed up on its pioneering work developing the likes of autonomous driving and electromobility. “There have already been some changes – and there will be further changes – in the ASAP management”, Michael explains. “ASAP now has a leaner management structure and an even stronger focus on sales and technology. Also, the company is now managed by a board to which the operating divisions and key accounts report. This brings the highest possible added value for the customer – and will be increasingly effective in 2025 and beyond.” Finally, Michael tells of ASAP’s plans to double down on its focus on software, electrics/electronics, and new technologies, as well as to push towards more intensive efforts concerning product and application lifecycle management, an area HCLTech is especially skilled in. On the back of these developments, Michael signs off by saying: “These changes will enable ASAP to play an active role in shaping the ongoing transformation of the automotive industry, which is far from complete.” Michael Neisen, CEO ASAP Group
EU Business News- German CEO Excellence Awards 2025 Jan25292 Strategic Digital Transformation CEO of the Year 2025 & Award for Excellence in AI-Driven Enterprise Architecture 2025 Based in Magdeburg, Y-Core Consulting strives to help companies remain competitive in this dynamic climate. On a mission to ensure that technology investments lead to measurable business success rather than becoming isolated IT projects, Y-Core Consulting specialises in enterprise architecture, AI-driven business transformation, and IT strategy. While many businesses adopt new tools without a clear plan for their long-term impact, Y-Core Consulting ensures that technology is strategically integrated to create real value for its clientele. Y-Core Consulting serves a client base comprising C-level executives seeking a clear roadmap for AI and IT-driven business growth; enterprise architects and IT leaders wanting to design scalable, adaptable IT structures; and companies looking to harness AI and automation for efficiency and expansion. With each project it undertakes, Y-Core Consulting works to build long-term partnerships that are based on trust, positioning itself as a strategic advisor to its clientele rather than a short-term consultant. “At Y-Core Consulting, we believe technology should serve business strategy, not the other way around,” says Sebastian. “We focus on clarity and execution, ensuring real business impact over hype. Our approach to innovation is pragmatic – we implement practical, effective solutions rather than just theoretical concepts. Digital transformation is an ongoing journey, not a one-time project. Our goal is to help companies stay competitive. With expertise in enterprise architecture, automation, and IT strategy, we empower businesses to turn technology into a competitive advantage and build a strong framework for the future.” Dr. Sebastian Herden’s journey to becoming CEO of Y-Core Consulting is one shaped by enterprise IT leadership, deep technical expertise, and hands-on entrepreneurship. This mixture has allowed him to effectively bridge the gap between business and technology, ensuring that digital transformation delivers real impact. Each and every moment of Sebastian’s illustrious career journey has directly Digital transformation is an integral component of any business, especially those striving to achieve long-term success in the rapidly advancing global market. Contrary to popular belief, however, digital transformation is not just a technological shift – it is also a shift in business and mindset that prepares organisations for new challenges and opportunities. In short, digital transformation is a vital partner for sustainable growth and future proofing, and no company understands this better than Y-Core Consulting, a leader in guiding businesses through the complexities of digital transformation. We speak with Y-Core Consulting’s Founder and CEO, Dr. Sebastian Herden below, following his recent recognition in the German CEO Excellence Awards 2025. contributed towards his entrepreneurial mindset and deep love for challenges, driving him to become a key player in the IT sphere. Having started programming at just 11-years-old, Sebastian entered the world of IT at a very young age and was actively online by 1994. This sparked his analytical mindset and successfully set the tone for a career of digital progression and prosperity. Later, he earned a PhD in Computer Science from the Ottovon-Guericke University Magdeburg. Here, Dr. Herden focused on complex IT architectures, and received a scholarship from SAP, which further deepened his understanding of enterprise IT structures. Sebastian’s professional career began in enterprise architecture, first with a role at T-Systems, and then as Lead Enterprise Architect at Deutsche Telekom. He led large-scale digital transformation projects, seamlessly integrating new technologies into complex IT environments. Here, Sebastian quickly realised that large companies aren’t failing due to a lack of technology, but because of slow decision-making and rigid structures. “The challenge wasn’t just technical – it was strategic and cultural,” he recalls. In 2018, Sebastian left Deutsche Telekom to build his own eCommerce company, scaling it to more than 160,000 customers and 30 employees. He applied automation, AI-driven decision-making, and scalable IT architectures to prove that technology can drive real business value when strategically implemented. It was this realisation that led Sebastian to found Y-Core Consulting in 2021, striving to bridge the gap between executives and IT teams and ensure that investments into technology drive measurable results. Outside of the office, Sebastian is an avid sailor, a hobby that he believes has played a key role in shaping him to successfully lead Y-Core Consulting. “Sailing is more than just a sport – it’s a mindset,” he tells us. “Sailing teaches patience, adaptability, and decision-making under uncertainty – skills that translate directly into business. You constantly analyse conditions, adjust your course, and make decisions with Contact: Dr. Sebastian Herden Company: Y-Core Consulting GmbH Web Address: www.ycore.consulting Y-Core Consulting GmbH
limited information. That’s exactly how I approach business challenges as well.” Opting for a leadership style defined by strategic clarity, direct communication, and empowerment, Sebastian believes in leading by example, setting clear goals, and ensuring that each member of the team is in complete understanding of one another. To Sebastian, leadership is not about maintaining control but about setting direction, removing obstacles, and enabling people to excel. He strives to ensure that everyone at Y-Core Consulting understands why the consultancy exists: to bridge the gap between technology and business leadership, turning digital transformation into true competitive advantage. To ensure the sustained success of every project it undertakes, Sebastian tells us that Y-Core Consulting takes a strategic approach to digital transformation. Each engagement begins with developing a deep understanding of the business context, as business goals should always be considered before technology. The team begins by identifying the core objectives and challenges of its clients before considering technological solutions, then assesses the client’s existing IT landscape to uncover gaps and opportunities for improvement. Finally, the company develops a clear, phased AI and digital transformation roadmap to ensure a smooth transition with measurable impact and minimal disruption. “Many digital transformation projects fail due to poor execution,” Sebastian explains. “To prevent this, we establish clear governance and milestones, ensuring that every project follows a structured approach with measurable progress at each stage. We bridge the gap between business and IT, fostering cross-team collaboration to eliminate misalignment. Our iterative approach allows for continuous feedback and quick adjustments, reducing risks and avoiding costly, large-scale overhauls. Ultimately, our success is not just in delivering technology but in ensuring businesses achieve tangible impact from their digital investments.” To Sebastian and the team at Y-Core Consulting, digitalisation is not a daunting obstacle but a massive opportunity for growth and development. While many digitalisation discussions focus on the risks, the reality is that companies embracing the transformation today will gain a significant competitive edge; acting now will position these companies as industry leaders. “We don’t just help companies keep up with change; we ensure they move ahead in this digital era. Our guiding principle is clear: Transform today, win tomorrow – with a clear strategy and future-proof technology,” Sebastian adds. Moving forward, Sebastian tells us that Y-Core Consulting aims to continue driving success and innovation throughout 2025. This year is set to be one of expansion and deeper impact, as Y-Core Consulting has successfully established itself as a trusted partner in digital transformation and now seeks to scale and develop new ways to support companies in their transformation journeys. One of the company’s key goals is to move beyond pure consulting and develop digital products that can help businesses in accelerating their transformations. To achieve this, Y-Core Consulting will create AI-driven frameworks and enterprise architecture blueprints, allowing companies to implement best practices more efficiently. This approach will enable the company to increase its impact while maintaining the high quality of work for which it has become renowned. Alongside this, Y-Core Consulting will also be guiding companies in embedding AI into customer interactions, automation, and data-driven decision-making to ensure that they gain a real competitive advantage amidst the AI revolution reshaping the industry. Beyond consulting work, the company will also be expanding its thought leadership activities. In collaboration with Studio 5 in Magdeburg, which was founded by Sebastian and his business partner Sebastian Gauck, Y-Core Consulting will be expanding its YouTube Business Coaching Initiative. This initiative enables Sebastian and the team to help entrepreneurs and decision-makers successfully navigate digital transformation with digital-first business strategies and unparalleled knowledge sharing. Ultimately, 2025 is about scaling business for Y-Core Consulting. The company will remain dedicated to not only helping companies navigate digital transformation but actively shaping how AI, enterprise architecture, and new work models define business success in the years to come. On a more personal note, we learn that Sebastian has an equally exciting year ahead of him. “Success isn’t just about business – it’s about personal growth, meaningful experiences, and balance,” he states. “My career has always been driven by curiosity and challenges, but my private life plays just as big a role in shaping who I am and how I lead. Beyond business, my biggest priority is family. I have a 10-year-old son and a 2.5-year-old daughter and watching them grow is one of my greatest joys. I want to be present, support them, and give them the tools to navigate an ever-changing world. Being there for them is just as fulfilling as any professional success. “Looking ahead, 2025 will be a year of professional growth and personal fulfilment. It’s about scaling Y-Core Consulting, deepening my impact in AI, but also embracing adventure, learning, and time with the people who matter most.”
EU Business News- German CEO Excellence Awards 2025 Marine Engineering CEO of the Year 2025 Based in Hollenstedt, HAMANN is a worldwide recognised supplier of sewage and greywater treatment technology for the maritime industry. Dedicated to helping its clientele in meeting the ever-stricter regulations on sewage discharge, HAMANN offers extensive consulting services and a high level of customisation for its sewage treatment equipment to ensure the best possible results for every project. The company is helmed by visionary CEO Felix von Bredow, who has been recently recognised in the German CEO Excellence Awards 2025. Join us below as we speak with Felix to learn more in the wake of his success. Since its founding in 1972, HAMANN has been driven by its mission to deliver the very best quality sewage treatment plants, spares, and services worldwide. As the specialist in sewage systems, HAMANN provides tailored solutions to its clients, always offering the best system that meets their specific project needs. HAMANN boasts a global network comprising more than 40 sales agents and service partners, who all work tirelessly to provide customer support and technical field services around the world, enabling the company to remain consistent in its excellence. Felix von Bredow is the CEO of HAMANN and has led the company from strength to strength since 2016. Before entering the field, Felix studied at the Fachhochschule Wedel University of Applied Sciences, where he achieved a degree in industrial engineering in 1998. From there, he worked for various consulting companies and supported countless customers from different industries in improving their processes, organisational structures, and focus on IT technologies. This varied experience enabled Felix to bring a wealth of experience to his role at HAMANN. At HAMANN, Felix serves as a role model to the company, and he works hard to live up to this standard. He takes a fair approach to management, opting to treat all employees as equals in order to maintain morale and encourage collaborative growth. “Every employee is an important part of the company,” he explains. “My role is to position the company strategically and continuously future-proof, and I am happy to take responsibility for this.” This strategy has proven entirely successful, as Felix cites the team as a significant driver behind HAMANN’s excellence. The business is built upon the sturdy foundation of its team’s expertise, its focus on what the customer actually needs, and the inimitable quality of its products. By taking a client-first approach to its operations, fostering a collaborative internal culture, and remaining dedicated to continuous improvement through research and development, HAMANN succeeds in maintaining its position as a pioneer in the sewage and greywater treatment industry. “The key to success in the niche in which HAMANN operates is reliability, quality, and technological leadership,” Felix states. “If you compare the situation at HAMANN from when I started to today, you can see that we have more than doubled our turnover and number of employees. This goes hand in hand with the best reputation the company has ever enjoyed. We followed a very challenging plan to change the organisational structure while minimising potential risks and generating better and better opportunities.” Under Felix’s expert guidance, HAMANN is poised to prosper in the upcoming year, as evidenced by the significant success of his leadership. HAMANN is preparing to enhance its operations, though Felix tells us that extensive growth is not on the cards. “At HAMANN, we have experienced great development in recent years,” he says. “But we must always reflect on our core values. We have reached an organic limit that we should not exceed at HAMANN – otherwise, we will lose our character, which will benefit neither customers, nor stakeholders, nor employees.” Instead, HAMANN will be focusing on new opportunities. Felix notes that new companies are being established around the world, ones that will serve as the nucleus for HAMANN’s continued strong development. These developments bring opportunities for new growth and development, and perhaps even the personal prospect of handing over the baton when the time comes, to further the collective mission of strengthening the sewage and greywater treatment industry. As for the future of HAMANN, Felix tells us: “HAMANN is in a very good situation going into 2025, with full order books, expanded production capacities, and a strong team. We will use this positive setting to further optimise and streamline our workflows, dedicating less time to internal processes and more to our customers.” Contact: Felix von Bredow & Benjamin Jeuthe Company: HAMANN AG Web Address: www.hamannag.com Feb25182
Jul22493 13. Jul22493 Since 2013, Humanus has a been a shining beacon of light for the recruitment sphere. Established by Philipp Erik Breitenfeld over ten years ago, the company has continued to flourish year upon year. Here we explore the company’s offerings as we celebrate Philipp’s success in our German CEO Excellence Awards 2025. Humanus is dedicated to providing specialised recruitment and employee leasing across all European markets. Its clients operate in a myriad of areas from manufacturing to logistics and construction. Humanus continues to connect qualified, highly professional individuals with companies both in Germany, Poland, and Austria, to ensure that roles are not simply filled but expertly nourished. Philipp shared: “Our mission is to match talent with the right employers to create a win-win situation – businesses benefit from flexibility and skilled workers, while employees gain stable jobs with attractive conditions. Our core values are professionalism, honesty, and a strong focus on both clients and employees.” Offering transparent communication, continuous support, competent feedback and optimisation, and an award-winning strategy, Humanus helps its clientele to secure new staff who will ultimately help them to achieve high performing teams, and their company goals. Humanus’ strategy stems from partnering with companies which allow it to host a larger talent pool via collaborations with service providers in a range of countries. The company develops joint innovation projects to create custom HR solutions, which has strengthened both its market position and the outcome of its partnerships with its diverse client base. With this in mind, its deeply rooted experience in HR solutions ensures that the company can provide tailored services that can be entirely customised from business to business. Furthermore, Humanus highlights sustainability and social responsibility in HR for the fair treatment of employees via transparent contracts and social security as its top priorities. Atop this, its commitment to the longterm integration of international professionals is expertly managed through seamless communication and language courses. Philipp told us that the “HR and recruitment industry is undergoing major transformations.” Therefore, Humanus is dedicated to revolutionising and evolving the recruitment and HR spheres through supporting labour shortages in Europe, enabling flexibility for the quick-changing employee expectations, including work models and career development, and the efficient integration of digitisation solutions. As CEO, Philipp’s leadership style is both transformational and collaborative. He enthused: “I focus on empowerment and decision making freedom, a culture of open communication, and continuous learning and development.” For example, through encouraging his employees to take initiative and make their independent decisions, Philipp supports his team from the hull of the business – nourishing their autonomy and guiding them in a supportive yet hands-off regard. As Philipp holds regular meetings, including feedback sessions, the team is able to grow together while building trust and clarity between them. Additionally, each individual at Humanus invests in training and qualifications for the current time and the future ahead – not only to improve their current skills, relationships, and morale within the team, but also to translate this into the work they do for all of their clients. For the year ahead, Philipp and his team will be promoting long-term employment instead of short-term placements to enhance stability from industry to industry. Humanus is also set to support workers from economically weaker regions and create more sustainable business practices, including the use of digitalisation processes to optimise results. With regards to his own development, Philipp plans to expand the company on a larger scale and become more involved in both education and mentoring projects which will bolster the success of our future HR leaders. By constantly innovating the modern sphere of HR, utilising its flexible nature and dedicated services, Humanus is sure to have a successful 2025 ahead. Innovative and modern HR outsourcing, permanent recruitment, and employee leasing results such as these have never been so easy to attain than with Humanus’ help. Contact Humanus Personalservice today for more information on how this esteemed company can help you with your recruitment needs. Contact: Philipp Erik Breitenfeld Company: Humanus Personalservice GmbH Website: https://www.humanus.de/ Recruitment CEO of the Year 2025 Feb25172 “Committed, Proud, and Connected”
EU Business News- German CEO Excellence Awards 2025 IT Services CEO of the Year 2025 & Innovator in Secure Cloud & Managed Services 2025 RABB IT Solutions is an IT service provider specialising in cloud solutions and IT security for mediumsized businesses. Headquartered in Germany, the company serves customers worldwide from multiple locations, including Katzenelnbogen, Hamburg, Munich, and Ingolstadt. Renowned for providing cutting-edge, scalable, and secure IT solutions, RABB IT Solutions is steered by Rehan Khan, its visionary Founder and Managing Director. As Rehan is named in the German CEO Excellence Awards 2025, we take a closer look at his rise to greatness. Working alongside business leaders, IT managers, and CIOs, RABB IT Solutions is on a mission to provide customised, secure, and future-proof IT solutions to help businesses navigate digital transformation while maintaining the highest security standards. Its key offerings include GSZ Cloud, a high-performance, environmentally friendly cloud hosting solution fully compliant with GDPR; comprehensive IT security solutions with a 24/7 managed service, vulnerability audits, and email protection; and end-to-end IT support with guaranteed rapid response times. RABB IT Solutions thrives under the expert leadership of Rehan Khan, a celebrated market figure. Rehan’s distinguished career in the IT space comprises a number of prestigious titles but prior to embarking on this path, he spent over a decade as a professional badminton player. This athletic background instilled in him a mindset of pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities – qualities that have paved his way to excellence and shaped his remarkable future. A leader in the IT sphere, Rehan’s journey into the industry began with a strong passion for technology, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Before founding RABB IT Solutions, Rehan spent several years working as an IT consultant for large corporations. During this time, he gained deep insights into the challenges that businesses face, such as data security risks and compliance challenges, a lack of internal IT resources, and the need for cost-effective, scalable IT infrastructure. “This experience gave me a comprehensive understanding of corporate IT environments,” he recalls, “but I also realised that midsized businesses often lacked the same level of expertise, security, and scalability that large enterprises could afford.” In 2005, Rehan made the decision to start his own company and founded RABB IT Solutions. He aimed to not only offer IT services, but to also build long-term partnerships with businesses needing secure, flexible, and innovative IT solutions. His vision was clear: to provide cutting-edge solutions that adapt to business growth; to offer top-tier IT security with 24/7 monitoring; and to deliver personalised, responsive IT support with a 30-minute first-response guarantee. Today, RABB IT Solutions is a leading Managed Service Provider operating across five locations in Germany. With a worldwide client base and a team of more than 80 IT professionals, the company’s core focus lies in delivering secure, scalable, and efficient IT solutions that enable businesses to stay ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Its growth strategy revolves around continuous development and specialisation in managed IT services, leveraging innovation, security, and service excellence to ensure that clients receive the very best future-proof solutions that grow alongside their business needs. Like any rising business, RABB IT Solutions has faced various challenges throughout the years, including prematurely terminated projects, client losses, customer insolvencies, and economic and political shifts. These are inevitable hurdles that may challenge any business in the market, and, with this understanding, Rehan strives to approach each one with a solution-oriented mindset. “Rather than seeing obstacles and setbacks, I focus on thinking differently and making the best of every situation. This mindset has helped us stay agile, adapt quickly. And continue growing despite external challenges,” he tells us. “As a former professional athlete, I have developed a unique perspective on perseverance and resilience. Just like in sports, business success requires mental toughness, strategic thinking, and continuous improvement.” Rehan plans to apply this mindset to the future operations of RABB IT Solutions, aiming to continue growing and expanding its market share throughout 2025, further establishing the company as a trusted advisor to its clientele. The company is committed to providing cuttingedge solutions and managed services, ensuring that businesses can continue to rely on RABB IT Solutions for their digital transformation and security needs. As for Rehan’s future, the leader tells us: “I place great importance on developing every individual in my team, both personally and professionally. This is something I truly enjoy, and it also challenges me to continuously improve as a leader. Looking ahead, my goal is to gradually step back from operational tasks and focus on the strategic development of the company. I want to drive innovation, expansion, and long-term success, ensuring that RABB IT Solutions remains a trusted industry leader.” Contact: Rehan Khan Company: RABB IT Solutions GmbH Web Address: www.rabbgmbh.de Feb25006 RABB IT Solutions GmbH
Jul22493 15. On the back of its 25th anniversary celebrations last year, Frankfurt’s leading digital solutions provider, compeople AG, has spent the first few months of 2025 renewing its focus of being the ultimate digital transformation partner for its clients. Leveraging a team of more than 140 employees, anchored by the multi-award-winning CEO Olaf von der Ahe, compeople brings a human touch to its consulting services and solutions and offers partnerships defined by impactful results and emotional intelligence. Striving to become an undisputed IT leader, compeople creates innovative, digitally focused solutions designed to improve lives and help businesses to reach their full potential. Seamlessly blending teamwork and technology, one of the company’s key aims is to create a more sustainable future, one where trust, respect, and continuous development are cornerstones of the sector. The company’s overarching vision is thus to inspire, nurturing successful growth and evolving alongside both its clients and the wider landscape. Setting compeople apart in this space is a three-fold commitment to innovation, its customers, and its employees, an ethos that results in quality solutions, rewarding customer relationships, and a team committed to shaping the future of digital solutions. Its core values reflect this as well, with these spanning taking the initiative, having a sense of responsibility, connoting trust, remaining appreciative, and a willingness to try new things. These qualities shape compeople’s culture and align it with customer and partner preferences. “Through our collaborative and transparent approach, we design digital solutions that are tailored to each client’s individual requirements. Whether it’s cloud transformation, IT modernisation, digital experiences, or even data management/AI projects, you can be sure our team of highly skilled professionals will combine technology with creativity and a human touch to deliver exceptional results.” Since joining the team back in 2023 as compeople’s CEO, Olaf von der Ahe has been the man responsible for upholding the company’s textbook internal culture and ensuring that its reputation for excellence remains intact. A longstanding senior executive with seemingly boundless experience in business and IT environments, Olaf is an unabashed expert when it comes to organisational development, leadership, and resultsdriven strategy implementation, leading to a successful track record of forming relationships with clients across industry. Over the course of an enviable career dating back more than 25 years, Olaf has worked for several of the DACH region’s top consulting companies, in addition to having taken over a slew of medium-sized companies and start-ups across Germany, transforming them into contenders that today operate at the forefront of the country’s markets. Such consistent success can be attributed to the systematic approach Olaf takes when it comes to new projects or clients, with this method essentially guaranteeing a successful outcome. A similarly encompassing philosophy has come to define Olaf’s leadership style, which is based around a series of guiding principles comprising the effective communication, outlining a clear vision, promoting a culture of empowerment, leading by example, and offering a host of personal and professional growth opportunities. Even though he is a relatively new addition to the team, Olaf’s decades of experience have allowed him to align his distinctive style with that of the wider company, resulting in a seamless cultural fit. This can also be felt right across the company’s internal environment, an atmosphere where employees understand what is expected of them and where they fit into the wider puzzle. By continuously reminding employees what compeople stands for in a landscape that changes like the wind, Olaf is setting his organisation up for lasting success, something achieved further by recognising employees when they achieve greatness, as well as encouraging feedback and honest conversations when things do not go exactly to plan. With these initiatives to boot, compeople is looking ahead to a future of ongoing innovation, including becoming a strategic partner for new businesses in search of cutting-edge digital solutions in both the financial services industry and beyond. Moreover, in a world where AI is now the norm, the company is striving to double down on its investments in this technology, without losing sight of the humanity that underpins its solutions at every turn. Finally, for back-to-back award-winning CEO Olaf von der Ahe, the next steps are all about fortifying compeople AG and ensuring that it retains its strong presence, growing sustainably and thriving in the process. We wish Olaf and his ever-expanding team all the best for the rest of the year and beyond, and we eagerly anticipate the ways they will continue to show distinction as we move into an increasingly technology-centred world. Contact: Olaf von der Ahe Company: compeople AG Web Address: https://www.compeople.de/ Financial Services Digital Solutions CEO of the Year 2025 AIS-Jan25052
www.eubusinessnews.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTY1MjM3