Hence, Günter Schürger (49), Florian Fischer (49) and Matthias Bauer (35) will jointly take over the management of the company to enable VBM to meet the ongoing and long-term changes brought about by digital technology to enable it to fully exploit the opportunities it offers in a time of fundamental upheaval. More than ever, the new management structure necessitates comprehensive communication and networking throughout the entire Group, both externally and internally, a task for which Dr. Gunther Schunk (49) will assume responsibility.

Stefan Rühling (58), hitherto Chairman of the Executive Board of VBM, who was also involved in developing this new management structure, will stand down from the Executive Board but continue to represent the interests of the company within professional associations.

Following the banking and economic crisis of 2008, VBM has grown under the successful stewardship of Stefan Rühling to become a highly regarded and one of the most advanced companies in the trade information sector, a fact most recently reflected in the many activities an celebrations to mark the 125th anniversary of the company.

The members of the Supervisory Board would like to thank Stefan Rühling for his successful work over recent years.

Vogel Business Media is Germany’s largest trade media publisher with 100+ trade magazines, 100+ online portals, 100+ business events and a wealth of mobile offers and international activities. The head office of Vogel Business Media’s is in Würzburg, Germany. The Group’s print and digital media serve some 20 sectors in the fields of Industry, Automotive, Information Technology, Law/Business/Taxation and B2B Communication. Additional services range from trade fair services to communication services and communities as well as market intelligence and insights. The company celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2016.