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Dr. Karsten Wildberger, CEO of consumer electronics retailer Ceconomy, will head up the newly created Ministry for Digitalisation
Following the federal elections in February this year, Germany’s new government is a ‘grand coalition’ between the centre right Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the centre left Social Democratic Party (SPD). CDU leader Friedrich Merz will be sworn in as Chancellor early next month.
One of the new government’s priorities is a more unified approach to digital transformation across the country, hence the creation of a dedicated Ministry for Digitalisation.
As the country’s first Digital Minister, Wildberger will be charged with making Germany a “digitally sovereign country – in the economy, state and society. The establishment of the new ministry is a milestone for Germany, and its design will be crucial in determining whether it becomes a true driver of digitalization in Germany.” said Bitkom, a German digital industry association.Wildberger will step down from his role as CEO of Ceconomy in order to take up the role in Merz’s government.
“Now more than ever, we must become competitive, innovative, and digitally capable: to boost the economy, strengthen social cohesion, improve security, including in cyberspace, and bring the state up to date,” emphasised Ralf Wintergerst, head of Germany’s digital association.
Wildberger has previously served on the boards of telcos Telstra, Vodafone, and Deutsche Telekom.
“We believe he is ideally equipped, both personally and professionally, to fulfil the high expectations associated with this special office,” said Wolfgang Steiger, of the CDU-aligned Economic Council.
“I am honored by the trust that Friedrich Merz has placed in me and the opportunity to become the new Minister for Digital Affairs. Digitalization and technology have been defining themes throughout my professional career, and the new ministry will play a crucial role in the modernization of our country,” said Wildberger in a statement.
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