DATAGROUP SE has expanded its Executive Board with the appointment of Niels Ackermann as Chief Financial Officer, effective June 1, 2026. This move establishes an independent CFO position, previously managed by CEO Andreas Baresel, and is designed to strengthen the company's finance function as part of its ongoing growth strategy. Ackermann brings over 25 years of international leadership experience in CFO and CEO roles across private and publicly listed companies, with expertise in building private-equity-backed organizations and implementing buy-and-build strategies.
His background includes executive positions at European healthcare providers and pharmaceutical firms, as well as leadership roles in medium-sized industrial companies, where he oversaw finance, accounting, controlling, treasury, M&A, IT, HR, and legal and compliance. Additionally, Ackermann has investment banking experience from Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, providing deep knowledge in capital market transactions, leveraged buyout structures, and M&A processes. Max H.-H. Schaber, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, emphasized that Ackermann's international CFO experience and understanding of financing and M&A topics will be crucial for DATAGROUP's further development.
In his new role, Ackermann will work with the management team to drive organic growth and shape the long-term buy-and-build strategy in the German and European markets. This appointment underscores DATAGROUP's commitment to consolidating its position as a leading IT service provider, leveraging Ackermann's track record in high-growth organizations to support its expansion efforts. The company, which employs around 4,000 people and offers IT infrastructure and business application services through its CORBOX product, focuses on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, with an emphasis on integrating new companies effectively.
The move highlights the importance of robust financial leadership in navigating market consolidation and executing growth initiatives, positioning DATAGROUP to enhance its competitiveness and operational efficiency in the evolving IT services sector.
