The German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport is expressing confidence in the imminent announcement of a new Chief Executive Officer for Deutsche Bahn. A ministry spokesperson stated on Friday that they are “optimistic” although acknowledging the appointment is contingent on numerous factors. They affirmed the expectation that Minister Patrick Schnieder (CDU) will not be presenting the selection alone to the press.
However, the passenger advocacy group “Pro Bahn” has voiced substantial skepticism regarding this timeline. The group’s chairman, Detlef Neuß, told the “Rheinische Post” newspaper that potential candidates have either declined consideration or are perceived as overly critical of the ministry, making an announcement by Monday unlikely. Neuß cautioned about overly optimistic expectations surrounding the Minister’s plans, emphasizing that systemic change within Deutsche Bahn cannot be achieved swiftly.
The ministry is slated to present key reform elements and a revised Bahn strategy on Monday. The position of CEO became vacant in August when the previous CEO, Richard Lutz, departed prematurely, continuing on an interim basis until a successor is appointed. The incoming CEO faces a significant challenge, against a backdrop of consistently declining punctuality rates and substantial financial deficits plaguing the national rail operator.
