"We are convinced that Markus Panhauser, with his expertise in the freight forwarding business, will contribute to further expanding DHL Global Forwarding's market share in the two important markets of Germany and Switzerland and strengthen the organization in both countries for the future," says Tim Scharwath, CEO DHL Global Forwarding, Freight. "Tobias Schmidt has done an outstanding job but will now fully focus on his role as CEO of DHL Global Forwarding Europe. With his experience and dedication, he has contributed significantly to the success of DHL Global Forwarding in Germany and Switzerland, and hands over highly successful organizations to his successor."

Proven ability to develop and implement successful processes, structures, and products

Markus Panhauser joined the Group in 2020 as Head of Ocean Freight DHL Global Forwarding Europe after gaining extensive experience in the forwarding business at different global logistics companies. Over the past three years, he has successfully elevated the European Ocean Freight business to an exceptional level of performance, leading to a substantial increase in profitability. 

"The national markets of Germany and Switzerland are crucial pillars within our European and global network. With our exceptional forwarder culture, we have a solid foundation to sustain successful growth in the Germany and Switzerland. I firmly believe that Markus, with his profound expertise, unwavering commitment, and passion for delivering high service quality, will elevate the two country organizations to new heights," states Tobias Schmidt, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding Europe.

A diverse perspective, great expertise, and proven leadership skills as successor

Taking over from Panhauser, Barbara Eleota will assume the position of Head of Ocean Freight DHL Global Forwarding Europe effective August 1, 2024. Joining DHL Group from DB Schenker, Eleota brings over 25 years of experience in the logistics sector. Throughout her career, she has excelled in Trade Management, particularly focusing on North America, and as Country Ocean Freight Manager in Italy. Eleota will be based in Hamburg and will report directly to Tobias Schmidt, with a dotted line to Casper Ellerbaek, Global Head of Ocean Freight at DHL Global Forwarding.

"With her proven leadership skills and diverse perspective, Barbara Eleota will strengthen our company's ability to foster sustainable business growth and develop future-proof strategies for our continued success. We are delighted to have such an experienced and renowned logistics expert joining our team", says Tobias Schmidt, CEO DHL Global Forwarding Europe.