VERBUND AG, Austria's leading utility and one of Europe's largest producers of electricity from hydropower, has appointed Stefan Waldner as Chief Financial Officer and member of the Management Board. The Supervisory Board announced the decision on October 7, 2026. Waldner's appointment is for a two-year term, with an option to extend for a further two years. He succeeds Peter Kollmann, who stepped down on August 31, 2026. Until Waldner takes office, CEO Michael Strugl will continue to oversee the finance portfolio, a responsibility the Supervisory Board acknowledged with thanks.
Waldner, 49, brings more than 20 years of experience in the international energy industry, with extensive expertise in financing, capital markets, and mergers and acquisitions. He currently holds a Senior Vice President position in OMV's finance function. His previous roles include CFO of OMV Petrol Ofisi in Türkiye and CFO and Executive Board member of OMV Petrom in Romania. He began his career at Merrill Lynch International in London and joined OMV in 2005. This deep background in energy finance positions him well to navigate VERBUND's financial strategy amid the ongoing energy transition.
The appointment is significant for VERBUND as it seeks to maintain its financial strength and support its strategic initiatives, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure investments. Martin Ohneberg, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of VERBUND AG, stated, "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 highlights the depth of talent within the OBAG portfolio and ensures continuity in financial leadership.
Waldner's experience in capital markets and M&A will be crucial as VERBUND continues to invest in hydropower, wind, and solar projects, and explores new opportunities in the evolving European energy market. His focus on sound financing and disciplined capital allocation aligns with VERBUND's commitment to sustainable growth and shareholder value. "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," Waldner said. His leadership is expected to steer VERBUND through a period of significant investment and regulatory change, reinforcing its position as a leader in renewable energy.
The appointment comes at a critical time for European utilities, which face rising interest rates, volatile energy prices, and the need to fund ambitious decarbonization targets. Waldner's proven track record in restructuring and financial management at OMV Petrom and OMV Petrol Ofisi suggests he can effectively manage VERBUND's balance sheet while pursuing growth. Investors and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how his strategies unfold, particularly in areas such as green financing and strategic partnerships. For more details, view the original release on www.newmediawire.com.
