is one of the leading figures in German business. As CEO of Deutsche Post DHL Group, he led the company for 15 years, transforming it into the world’s largest logistics company. With steady leadership and a clear focus on core operations, he defined an entire era for the organization.
Frank Appel, born in Hamburg in 1961, studied chemistry in Munich and earned his doctorate in neurobiology at ETH Zurich. After working for McKinsey, he joined Deutsche Post in 2000, where he played a decisive role in the company’s international expansion. In 2008, he took over as CEO and successfully steered the group through global challenges.
Even after stepping down from his position at Deutsche Post, Appel remains a highly respected voice in business and public life. Since 2022, he has served as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Deutsche Telekom AG and, since 2024, as a member of the Supervisory Board of RWE. His thoughtful and confident approach to complex challenges makes him a leader who offers guidance well beyond the balance sheet.