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Thomas Rabe

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Bertelsmann · Germany

✓ Verified current role· as of 2026-09-08

Thomas Rabe is the CEO of Bertelsmann. Rabe is based in Germany. Rabe was born in 1965 in Luxembourg and educated at RWTH Aachen University and University of Cologne.

German business executive born in 1965 in Luxembourg. Joined Bertelsmann's executive board in 2006 and became chairman and CEO in 2012. Also serves as CEO of RTL Group since 2019, overseeing the company's expansion into music rights, educational businesses, and digital transformation.

Recent developments

AI summary of recent coverage

Recent coverage has focused on Thomas Rabe's departure from leadership roles at Bertelsmann and RTL Group, with Thomas Coesfeld announced as his successor to become chairman and CEO of Bertelsmann while maintaining his position leading BMG. The transition reflects significant leadership changes at the media and entertainment conglomerate, with reporting also noting Rabe's legacy of maintaining profitability and investment during his tenure.

Summarized from the headlines below; see each source for the full story.

Born
August 6, 1965 · Luxembourg
Citizenship
Germany
Education
RWTH Aachen University, University of Cologne

Our coverage

On CEOInsider

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Thomas Rabe: FAQ

Who is Thomas Rabe?
Thomas Rabe is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bertelsmann, based in Germany.
What company does Thomas Rabe lead?
Thomas Rabe is CEO of Bertelsmann.
Where was Thomas Rabe educated?
Thomas Rabe studied at RWTH Aachen University, University of Cologne.