VERBUND AG, Austria's leading electricity company, has appointed Stefan Waldner as its new Chief Financial Officer and Management Board member, effective immediately. The Supervisory Board announced the decision, which fills a critical leadership gap following the departure of Peter Kollmann on August 31, 2026. Waldner's two-year term includes an option for a two-year extension, signaling stability in the company's financial leadership. The appointment, reported by NEWMEDIAWIRE, underscores VERBUND's commitment to maintaining financial strength amid the evolving energy landscape.
Waldner, 49, brings over 20 years of experience in the international energy sector, with deep expertise in financing, capital markets, and mergers and acquisitions. He currently serves as Senior Vice President in OMV's finance function, and previously held CFO roles at OMV Petrol Ofisi in Turkey and OMV Petrom in Romania. His career began at Merrill Lynch International in London before joining OMV in 2005. This diverse background positions him to navigate VERBUND's financial strategy, particularly as the company invests in renewable energy and grid modernization.
Martin Ohneberg, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, highlighted Waldner's qualifications: "Stefan Waldner combines capital markets expertise with operational CFO experience in the energy industry. He is well placed to support VERBUND's strategy and maintain its financial strength." Edith Hlawati, CEO of OBAG and member of the Nomination Committee, added, "We are delighted to have found a candidate who is a 100% match for the advertised profile. I am even more pleased that we were able to fill this important key position from within OBAG's portfolio companies." This internal appointment reflects a strategic move to leverage existing talent and ensure continuity in financial oversight.
Waldner expressed his enthusiasm: "I look forward to working with my fellow Management Board members and our employees to implement VERBUND's strategy, with a focus on sound financing and disciplined capital allocation." His emphasis on disciplined capital allocation is crucial as VERBUND pursues ambitious projects in hydropower, wind, and solar energy, requiring significant investment and robust financial management. The company's ability to secure favorable financing and manage risks will be pivotal in achieving its sustainability targets.
Until Waldner assumes office, CEO Michael Strugl will continue to oversee the finance portfolio, a responsibility he has handled since Kollmann's departure. The Supervisory Board acknowledged Strugl's additional role, ensuring a smooth transition. Waldner's appointment is effective immediately, and he will join the Management Board to steer VERBUND's financial affairs. For more details, view the original release on www.newmediawire.com.
This leadership change comes at a time when European energy companies are navigating volatile markets, regulatory shifts, and the transition to renewable sources. Waldner's experience in capital markets and operational finance will be instrumental in guiding VERBUND through these challenges, ensuring the company remains financially resilient and strategically agile. His appointment is a clear signal to investors and stakeholders that VERBUND prioritizes strong financial governance and industry expertise at the highest level.
