Leadership change at Burda: Eli Varn to head German media business, Jan Wachtel leaves the company

As of 1 July 2026, Burda is appointing Eli Varn as the Executive Board Member responsible for its German media business. Jan Wachtel, who took over as CEO with responsibility for the company’s global media business on 1 January 2026, will be leaving Burda on 30 June 2026. The decision to part ways was reached by mutual agreement between him and the Board of Directors, as they were unable to achieve sufficient alignment on the future strategic direction of Burda Media. 

“Over the past six months, Jan has provided important impetus for the further development of our media operations. Even though we ultimately did not reach a shared strategic position, I would like to expressly thank him, also on behalf of the Burda family, for his expertise, his clear-sightedness and his commitment.” 

Marc Al-Hames, Chairman of the Board of Directors

Speaking about her new role, Eli Varn said: “I would like to thank the Burda family for their trust and I look forward to shaping the necessary transformation of the German media business together with my colleagues over the coming years.” 

Responsibility for the international media business at Board level will be assumed by Lydia Rullkötter. 

Further details on the future set-up of Burda’s media operations will be announced in due course.