VERBUND AG, Austria's leading utility and one of Europe's largest producers of hydropower, has appointed Stefan Waldner as Chief Financial Officer and member of the Management Board. The decision, made by the Supervisory Board on October 7, 2026, fills a critical leadership void following the departure of Peter Kollmann on August 31, 2026. Waldner's two-year term, with an option for extension, signals a deliberate effort to reinforce the company's financial strategy amid a rapidly evolving energy landscape.
Waldner, 49, brings over two decades of experience in the international energy sector, with deep expertise in financing, capital markets, and mergers and acquisitions. He joins VERBUND from OMV, where he served as Senior Vice President in the finance function. His prior roles include CFO of OMV Petrol Ofisi in Türkiye and CFO and Executive Board member of OMV Petrom in Romania. He began his career at Merrill Lynch International in London before joining OMV in 2005. This blend of investment banking and operational CFO experience positions him uniquely to navigate the complex financial demands of a utility transitioning to a greener future.
The appointment is significant because VERBUND is a linchpin of Austria's energy infrastructure and a key player in Europe's renewable energy market. The company's financial health directly impacts its ability to invest in hydropower expansion, grid modernization, and innovative energy solutions. Waldner's capital markets expertise will be crucial as VERBUND seeks to fund ambitious projects, possibly through green bonds or other financial instruments. His operational background ensures he understands the day-to-day realities of energy production and distribution, enabling more informed capital allocation decisions.
Martin Ohneberg, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, emphasized Waldner's fit: “Stefan Waldner combines capital markets expertise with operational CFO experience in the energy industry. He is well placed to support VERBUND’s strategy and maintain its financial strength.” Edith Hlawati, CEO of OBAG and member of the Nomination Committee, highlighted the internal talent pipeline: “We are delighted to have found a candidate who is a 100% match for the advertised profile. I am even more pleased that we were able to fill this important key position from within OBAG’s portfolio companies.” This internal promotion underscores the strength of OBAG's portfolio and its commitment to developing leadership from within.
Waldner himself expressed enthusiasm: “I look forward to working with my fellow Management Board members and our employees to implement VERBUND’s strategy, with a focus on sound financing and disciplined capital allocation.” His priorities align with VERBUND's need to balance growth investments with financial prudence, especially as energy markets face volatility and regulatory shifts.
Until Waldner assumes office, CEO Michael Strugl will continue to oversee the finance portfolio, ensuring continuity. The Supervisory Board thanked Strugl for his additional responsibility. This seamless transition is vital for maintaining investor confidence and operational stability. Waldner's appointment is more than a personnel change; it is a strategic move to bolster VERBUND's financial leadership at a time when the energy sector demands agility and foresight. As Europe accelerates its energy transition, VERBUND's ability to secure favorable financing and execute strategic investments will determine its competitive edge. Waldner's track record suggests he is well-equipped to meet these challenges, making this announcement a pivotal moment for the company and its stakeholders. For more details, see the original release on www.newmediawire.com, and stay updated via NEWMEDIAWIRE.
