Germany launches second season of CEO der Zukunft cross‑mentoring program

The CEO der Zukunft cross‑mentoring programme, aimed at addressing the upcoming generational shift in German municipal and energy company leadership, is opening its second season. Applications for the 40 mentor‑40 mentee slots open on 6 July 2026 and run until mid‑September, after which Odgers will handle selection and matching.

The programme, supported by Schleswig‑Holstein Minister‑President Daniel Günther, will commence in January 2027 with a focus on the energy sector. It brings together experienced executives from city utilities, municipal firms and the energy industry, alongside sponsors such as Telekom Deutschland, Siemens Energy, DZ Bank and consultancy A.T. Kearney. The initiative emphasises diversity, aiming for gender parity and a blend of expertise to prepare future leaders for challenges like the energy, heat and mobility transition, digitalisation and talent shortages.