DeepL, the artificial intelligence translation specialist, has announced the departure of its Chief Financial Officer, Markus Harder. Sources close to the company, speaking to the “Handelsblatt” newspaper, indicate that a lack of experience in preparing for a potential initial public offering (IPO) contributed to the decision.
DeepL confirmed Harder’s exit but declined to comment on the timing or specifics surrounding the change. A company spokesperson stated, “We can confirm that Markus Harder is no longer with DeepL” adding that a successor will be announced in due course.
According to LinkedIn profiles, Peter McDougall is currently serving as interim CFO. McDougall previously played a role in the IPO of US software company Sprinklr in New York.
Data from Pitchbook reveals that DeepL secured a significant loan in January 2025, amounting to $75 million in the form of a “Senior Term Loan” or priority debt. Such external financing following substantial equity funding rounds can often signal consideration of a public offering. The identity of the lending institution remains undisclosed in the data. DeepL has not yet commented on its financial details in response to inquiries from “Handelsblatt”.
