United Internet AG, a leading European internet specialist with over 30 million fee-based customer contracts and 38 million ad-financed free accounts, has announced a change in its Management Board. Chief Financial Officer Carsten Theurer has decided, at his own request, to end his tenure when his contract expires on December 31, 2026. The Supervisory Board and CEO Ralph Dommermuth regret his decision, according to a release distributed via NEWMEDIAWIRE.
Philipp von Bismarck, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, expressed gratitude for Theurer's service, stating, “On behalf of the entire Supervisory Board, I would like to sincerely thank Mr. Theurer for the excellent and trusting cooperation over the past years. With great personal commitment, Mr. Theurer has played a key role in further developing the Group’s finance organization during his tenure on the Management Board and has provided important impetus for corporate governance, capital market communications, and the further development of Group-wide shared service structures and systems.”
Theurer reflected on his time at the company: “I would like to thank the Supervisory Board and Mr. Dommermuth for the trust they have placed in me and for the consistently trusting cooperation over the past years. Playing an active role in shaping the further development of the United Internet Group has been a special and highly rewarding task for me.” He added that he believes the Group is well positioned for future development and looks forward to contributing his experience in new entrepreneurial contexts, while remaining connected as a member of the Supervisory Board of IONOS Group SE.
Andre Driesen will succeed Carsten Theurer as Chief Financial Officer of United Internet AG as of November 1, 2026. Driesen brings extensive experience in finance, corporate management, and M&A. As former CFO of Drillisch AG and subsequently of 1&1 Drillisch AG, he supported major strategic transactions and the merger of Drillisch and 1&1 through the end of 2019. His long tenure within the Group has made him familiar with United Internet’s structures and key business fields. In recent years, he has worked as an independent consultant and held supervisory positions.
The appointment of Driesen is seen as a continuation of United Internet’s organizational development and the focusing of its holding company functions. The company, known for its high-performance “Internet Factory” with around 10,400 employees and brands such as 1&1, IONOS, STRATO, GMX, and WEB.DE, emphasizes operational excellence and high sales strength. For stakeholders, this leadership transition may signal stability and strategic continuity, as Driesen’s deep familiarity with the Group could ensure a smooth handover and sustained focus on growth and efficiency. The original release can be viewed on www.newmediawire.com.
