GfK extends CEO’s contract to 2019

Hartmann’s initial three-year contract was due to run out at the end of November, but the Supervisory Board voted unanimously to keep it in place until November 2019.

Arno Mahlert, chairman of the Supervisory Board of GfK, said: “We are very pleased that Matthias Hartmann will continue his successful work at GfK. His leadership has consistently driven the strategic and operational development of the company. We look forward to continuing on this path under his direction.”

Hartmann joined GfK on 1 December 2011, replacing Klaus Wübbenhorst who had spent 13 years in the role. Hartmann previously worked for IBM Global Business Services, the consulting arm of IBM, where he held the title of global head of strategy and industries.

In its most recent results, GfK reported a 1.3% decline in annual sales to €1.495bn, however adjusted operating income and margin both increased.