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Otto Group names Dr. Philipp André as new board leader in strategic shift

A new era begins as the Otto Group bets on digital innovation. Can Dr. Philipp André's retail expertise accelerate growth after Bucher's transformative tenure?

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Otto Group names Dr. Philipp André as new board leader in strategic shift

The Otto Group has announced a major change in its leadership team. Sergio Bucher, who has led the company's Executive Board since 2020, will transition to a new advisory role. Taking his place is Dr. Philipp André, a seasoned executive with a strong background in digital transformation and retail strategy.

Sergio Bucher joined the Otto Group's Executive Board on February 1, 2020. During his tenure, the company expanded internationally, acquiring the Belgian platform About You in 2021 and entering Asian markets. He also drove digitalisation efforts, launching an AI-powered personalisation system and a unified commerce platform in 2022. Under his leadership, the group strengthened its sustainability commitments, including the 2023 Green Deal—a pledge to use 100% renewable energy by 2030 and cut emissions by 25% by 2025.

Michael Otto thanked Bucher for his contributions and confirmed he would remain involved as a member of the Supervisory Board and advisor to Bonprix.

Dr. Philipp André will now take over as Executive Board Member for Brands and Retail. He brings extensive experience, having previously served as CCO of the Douglas Group since January 2023. Before that, he spent over seven years at Tchibo, most recently as Managing Director for Digital and Marketing. Earlier in his career, he founded the online fashion platform Department47 and worked as a consultant at McKinsey & Company. He holds degrees in mechanical engineering and marketing.

In his new role, André will oversee divisions including Crate & Barrel, Manufactum, Frankonia, and Freemans & Grattan as Chairman of the Advisory Board. He will also lead sourcing operations for Otto International. Benjamin Otto highlighted André's expertise in digital transformation as a key asset for the group's future strategy.

The leadership shift marks a new phase for the Otto Group. Dr. Philipp André's appointment aims to build on the company's digital and retail growth. Bucher's ongoing advisory role ensures continuity in strategic guidance.

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