Hubert Burda, the well-known publisher, is preparing to hand over the reins of his family business, Hubert Burda Media, to the next generation. With the transfer of leadership set for February 1, 2025, Burda's children, Elisabeth Burda Furtwängler and Jacob Burda, will step up to take on the entrepreneurial and publishing responsibilities of the company their father has led since 1986.
This decision marks the beginning of the fourth generation at the helm of Hubert Burda Media, which has been operational since 1903. Known for prominent magazine brands like Bunte and Focus, the media company is wholly owned by the Burda family. The shares are divided among Hubert Burda, who retains 25.1%, and his children, each holding approximately 37.5%.
At 84 years old, Hubert Burda shared his sentiments about the transition, expressing, “Das wirklich Einzigartige an einem Familienunternehmen ist, dass es einem nie allein gehört, sondern man verantwortet es für die nächste Generation. Ich bin dankbar, dass ich vor rund 40 Jahren von meinen Eltern einen gesunden Verlag übernehmen durfte und jetzt ein vielseitiges Medienunternehmen an meine Kinder übergeben kann.” (Translation: “The truly unique thing about a family business is, it never belongs to just one person, rather, it is to be stewarded for the next generation. I am grateful to have taken over a healthy publishing house from my parents about 40 years ago and now to be able to pass on this versatile media company to my children.”)
The transition follows long-term preparation, with both Elisabeth and Jacob having joined the supervisory board of Hubert Burda Media in 2017 after becoming shareholders in 2010. Elisabeth noted, “Wir haben uns bewusst entschieden, diese unternehmerische Aufgabe jetzt in politisch und ökonomisch herausfordernder Zeit zu übernehmen, um die Transformation unseres Familienunternehmens fortzusetzen – im Wissen um Tradition und aufgeschlossen für das Neue.” (Translation: “We have consciously decided to take on this entrepreneurial task at this politically and economically challenging time to continue the transformation of our family business—aware of tradition and open to the new.”)
Jacob echoed her sentiments, stating, “Es ist eine große Ehre und Verantwortung, das Erbe unseres Vaters in der vierten Generation fortzuführen.” (Translation: “It is a great honor and responsibility to carry on our father’s legacy in the fourth generation.”) Such comments reflect the burden the siblings feel as they step up to lead the company, which employs nearly 10,000 individuals.
Outlining the future, Hubert Burda will remain associated with the company as the personally liable partner and honorary chairman of the holding company. The timing of his retirement coincides closely with his milestone 85th birthday, which adds personal significance to the transition.
The Burda family faces substantial challenges as they take over leadership during politically and economically turbulent times, reflecting their commitment to guiding the company through its next phase of transformation. This transition is not only pivotal for the family but also for the many stakeholders connected to Hubert Burda Media.
With the media industry constantly changing due to rapid technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences, Elisabeth and Jacob Burda are poised to navigate these waters with their father’s legacy guiding their actions. Hubert Burda acknowledged not only his gratitude for the past but also the immense responsibility entrusted to his children, framing this moment as one of great honor as they lead the organization forward.
By ensuring their vision aligns with both the tradition of Hubert Burda Media and the modern demands of the media sector, the Burda children are set to forge their paths. With the combination of their knowledge and dedication, the future looks both hopeful and promising for Hubert Burda Media.
This generational shift within the company highlights the importance of family ties to its identity and ethics, emphasizing continuity. The legacy of Hubert Burda—both as a businessman and family leader—will assuredly influence how the company adapts to the ever-evolving media environment.
