DATAGROUP SE announced the expansion of its Executive Board with the appointment of Niels Ackermann as Chief Financial Officer, effective 1 June 2026. The company is creating an independent CFO position, a role previously handled by CEO Andreas Baresel, as part of its strategy to strengthen the finance function during a period of continued growth. This move signals a deliberate effort to bolster financial oversight and strategic planning as the organization scales its operations.
Niels Ackermann brings over 25 years of international leadership experience in CFO and CEO positions at both private and publicly listed companies. His expertise includes building and developing private-equity-backed organizations and implementing buy-and-build strategies. He has held executive roles at European healthcare providers and in the pharmaceutical industry, along with leadership positions in medium-sized industrial companies where he oversaw finance, accounting, controlling, treasury, M&A, IT, HR, and legal and compliance functions. This diverse background equips him to navigate the complexities of DATAGROUP's multifaceted growth approach.
Prior to his corporate roles, Ackermann gained investment banking experience at Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, developing extensive knowledge in capital market transactions, leveraged buyout structures, and M&A processes. Max H.-H. Schaber, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of DATAGROUP SE, stated that Ackermann's international CFO experience, understanding of financing and M&A topics, and track record in building high-growth organizations will be crucial for DATAGROUP's further development. This appointment is particularly significant as the company intensifies its acquisition activities in a consolidating market.
In his new position, Ackermann will work with the management team to drive organic growth and help shape the long-term buy-and-build strategy in the German and European markets. DATAGROUP is one of Germany's leading IT service providers with approximately 4,000 employees who design, implement, and operate IT infrastructures and business applications. The company's CORBOX product provides full-service IT workplace support for medium and large enterprises as well as public authorities. The company grows through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, with an acquisition strategy noted for optimal integration of new companies. DATAGROUP actively participates in market consolidation through its buy-and-turnaround and buy-and-build strategies. The appointment of a dedicated CFO with extensive M&A and financial structuring experience positions the company to more effectively execute these growth initiatives while maintaining financial discipline during expansion. This strategic hire underscores DATAGROUP's commitment to scaling its operations methodically, leveraging Ackermann's expertise to navigate the financial intricacies of mergers and acquisitions while ensuring sustainable growth. The move is expected to enhance investor confidence and provide a solid foundation for the company's ambitious plans in the competitive IT services sector.
