The appointment signals an important shift as the country seeks to modernize its digital infrastructure

Dr. Karsten Wildberger, CEO of consumer electronics giant MediaMarktSaturn, has been appointed as Germany’s first-ever Minister for Digital Affairs, marking a significant shift as the country seeks to modernize its digital infrastructure.

The appointment comes in the wake of Germany’s recent general elections, which resulted in ongoing efforts to form a coalition government under the leadership of Friedrich Merz. While coalition talks are still underway, one of Merz’s key campaign promises — the establishment of a standalone Ministry for Digital Affairs — is already taking shape. (By the way I have a story here about TSMC’s factory in Germany)

Dr. Wildberger’s selection is notable not only for the creation of the new ministry but also because he brings no prior political experience to the role. His background lies in the private sector, with executive positions at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Australian telecom operator Telstra, and German energy company E.ON.

Merz’s manifesto promises Digital Affairs Ministry

According to a press release published on the Ceconomy website — the parent company of MediaMarkt — Wildberger will step down from his CEO position effective May 5. Born in 1969, he holds a PhD in Physics from RWTH Aachen University.

Until now, digital policy in Germany has been managed under the Ministry of Transport. However, Merz pledged during the campaign to separate digital affairs into its own ministry, emphasizing the importance of innovation and freedom in technological development. His manifesto described the initiative as part of a broader vision where “new technologies require freedom.”