Wuppertal based corporate communications specialist Riedel Group has named Gudrun Scharler as the new Chief Executive Officer of its subsidiary Riedel Networks. She takes over the role from Michael Martens, who has been at the helm of the business since 2012. Martens is scheduled to remain with the organisation until the end of August to ensure an orderly transition of leadership responsibilities.
The incoming chief executive joins the enterprise with a lengthy history of executive appointments within the technology and telecommunications sectors. Her previous career highlights include serving as chief operations officer at Unitymedia, alongside holding senior management responsibilities at Nets Group, E-Plus, Sunrise Communications and Telefónica Germany. Scharler also recently expanded her commercial experience through leadership roles at Canyon Bicycles and P2 eBike GmbH.
During his 14 years with the parent organisation and his tenure as head of Riedel Networks, Martens oversaw a substantial expansion of the firm’s commercial operations. Under his leadership, the secure networks and IT security provider scaled its financial performance from 2.8 million euros in revenue and 12 staff members to 24 million euros in revenue and a workforce of 70 employees.
Frank Eischet, Riedel Group COO, said: “Michael has shaped Riedel Networks with exceptional commitment, entrepreneurial spirit, and a clear sense for what customers need. We are deeply grateful for everything he has achieved over the past 14 years. At the same time, we are excited to welcome Gudrun as the new CEO of Riedel Networks. With her strong leadership background in telecommunications, operations, and transformation, she is the right person to guide the company into its next phase of development.”
“Riedel Networks is a great company with a strong team, a clear customer focus, and significant potential for further development,” said Scharler. “I am very much looking forward to getting to know the team and working together to continue the company’s transformation while preserving the flexibility, speed, and collaborative spirit that make Riedel Networks special. I would also like to thank Michael for the open and structured handover and for the strong foundation he has built.”
“Riedel Networks has been a defining part of my professional journey, and I am proud of the company we have developed together,” said Martens. “Gudrun is taking over a company with strong momentum, and I look forward to supporting her as she leads Riedel Networks into its next chapter.”
