Deutsche Bahn CEO Transition: S3 Reform & Future of German Rail

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Introduction

Germany’s Federal Minister for Transport, Patrick Schnieder, announced the early termination of Dr. Richard Lutz’s contract as CEO of Deutsche Bahn AG, ahead of its original expiry in 2027. Dr. Lutz will remain in his position until a successor is appointed.

Leadership Transition at Deutsche Bahn

The contract of Deutsche Bahn AG CEO Dr. Richard Lutz will be terminated early. Dr. Lutz will remain in his position until a suitable successor is appointed.

Minister Schnieder thanked Dr. Lutz for his commitment. Dr. Richard Lutz has served as CEO of Deutsche Bahn since March 2017.

Werner Gatzer, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Deutsche Bahn AG, added that the selection process for a new CEO will now begin.

Key Initiatives Under Dr. Lutz’s Leadership

Dr. Richard Lutz has served as CEO of Deutsche Bahn since March 2017. He previously held senior financial roles within the company.

Under his leadership, Deutsche Bahn has navigated operational and financial challenges while initiating reforms in digitalisation and sustainability.

Since becoming CEO in March 2017, Lutz led the launch of Deutsche Bahn’s Strong Rail strategy, aimed at transforming the company into a more resilient, modern, and climate-friendly mobility provider.

Infrastructure Investments and Modernization

In 2024, Deutsche Bahn, in cooperation with the Federal Government, invested almost EUR 17 billion to halt infrastructural deterioration.

The comprehensive modernization of the Riedbahn, the 70 km rail link between Frankfurt and Mannheim, was completed in five months.

Structural Reforms and Future Goals

Lutz initiated the S3 structural reform across DB Group designed to improve infrastructure, operational efficiency, and profitability by 2027. This program includes administrative streamlining.

The S3 structural reform aims to reduce operating disruptions by 20 %, raise punctuality to 75–80 %, and target a two-billion-euro EBIT for the Integrated Rail System.

On 22 September 2025, Minister Schnieder will present his “Agenda for Satisfied Railway Customers,” a comprehensive outline for the reform of Deutsche Bahn, aiming to improve service reliability, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

The Federal Minister for Transport announced the early termination of Dr. Richard Lutz’s contract as CEO of Deutsche Bahn AG. Dr. Lutz will remain in his position until a successor is appointed. Key initiatives under his leadership include the Strong Rail strategy, infrastructure investments, and the S3 structural reform. The “Agenda for Satisfied Railway Customers” will be presented on 22 September 2025.

Company Summary

Deutsche Bahn AG: Deutsche Bahn is a major railway company. Dr. Richard Lutz served as CEO from March 2017 until his contract termination was announced.

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