GLOBAL: The Riedel Group has appointed Gudrun Scharler as CEO of Riedel Networks, marking a leadership transition for the secure networking and IT security specialist as long-serving CEO Michael Martens prepares to step down following more than a decade at the helm. Scharler succeeds Martens, who has led Riedel Networks since 2012 and will remain with the company through the end of August to support a structured handover process.

“Michael has shaped Riedel Networks with exceptional commitment, entrepreneurial spirit, and a clear sense for what customers need,” said Frank Eischet, Riedel Group COO. “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.”

Scharler brings extensive executive leadership experience across the telecommunications and technology sectors, having held senior roles focused on operations, organisational transformation and customer-focused business growth. Her career includes leadership positions at Unitymedia, where she served as Chief Operations Officer, as well as roles with Nets Group, E-Plus, Sunrise Communications and Telefónica Germany. More recently, she broadened her executive portfolio through leadership positions at Canyon Bicycles and P2 eBike GmbH.

“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.”

Martens leaves behind a business that has undergone significant expansion during his tenure. Since assuming leadership in 2012, he has overseen the company’s growth in secure networking and IT security services, guiding Riedel Networks from €2.8 million in revenue and 12 employees to a business generating €24 million in revenue with a workforce of 70 employees.

“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.”

The appointment signals the next stage in Riedel Networks’ development as the company continues to expand its secure connectivity and IT security offerings while building on the foundations established under Martens’ leadership over the past 14 years.