MTU Appoints Dr. Ottmar Pfänder as Chief Program Officer to Lead Engine Programs

MTU Appoints Dr. Ottmar Pfänder as Chief Program Officer to Lead Engine Programs

(IN BRIEF) MTU Aero Engines AG has named Dr. Ottmar Pfänder as Chief Program Officer, effective January 1, 2026, on a three-year mandate. Dr. Pfänder, a 25-year MTU veteran currently in charge of commercial engine programs, will succeed Michael Schreyögg, who is retiring after over 35 years with the company and 12 years on the Executive Board. The transition ensures continuity in managing the company’s civil and military engine lines and its global maintenance network. Supervisory Board Chairman Gordon Riske and Executive Board Chairman Lars Wagner praised both Schreyögg’s contributions and Pfänder’s industry expertise. Schreyögg will remain available in an advisory role until the end of 2025.

(PRESS RELEASE) MUNICH, 5-Aug-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — MTU Aero Engines AG’s Supervisory Board has appointed Dr. Ottmar Pfänder as the new Chief Program Officer, effective January 1, 2026. Dr. Pfänder, who has dedicated 25 years to MTU and currently oversees all commercial engine programs, will serve a three-year term through December 31, 2028. He succeeds Michael Schreyögg, who is retiring at his own request after more than 35 years with the company—12 of which were spent on the Executive Board.

“Michael Schreyögg has been instrumental in MTU’s growth,” remarked Gordon Riske, Chairman of the Supervisory Board. “He expanded our global maintenance network and solidified our commercial and military engine businesses. We’re grateful for his leadership. Dr. Pfänder brings deep industry knowledge and a strategic vision that will be vital to MTU’s continued success.”

In his new capacity, Dr. Pfänder will manage both civilian and defense engine programs and lead the worldwide maintenance division. His internal promotion ensures continuity and a seamless handover. Mr. Schreyögg will remain available as an advisor through the transition period, stepping down officially on December 31, 2025.

Lars Wagner, Chairman of the Executive Board, added: “Having worked alongside Michael for a decade, I’ve long admired his energy and dedication. Dr. Pfänder’s extensive MTU experience and leadership qualities make him the ideal successor.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Michael Schreyögg said, “MTU has defined my career, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved—from building robust military and commercial engine programs to fostering industry partnerships worldwide. Now is the right moment to pass the torch to Ottmar, whose expertise will guide MTU into its next chapter.”

Dr. Ottmar Pfänder commented, “I am honored by the Supervisory Board’s trust and eager to accelerate MTU’s transformation and secure its competitive edge globally. I look forward to collaborating with our new Executive Board and thank Michael for his invaluable mentorship.”

MTU Aero Engines AG is a globally recognized expert in commercial and military aircraft engines. MTU‘s high-tech expertise ranges from the development and production of high-quality components to the final assembly of complete engines and the maintenance of aircraft engines and stationary gas turbines. In the financial year 2024, the DAX-listed company generated revenues of 7.5 billion euros. MTU technology can be found providing reliable thrust in one in three commercial aircraft worldwide. And every year, MTU maintains around 1,500 engines and industrial gas turbines. At 19 locations on five continents, more than 13,000 employees from over 80 nations contribute to safe global mobility. Together with other European engine manufacturers, MTU has also been ensuring and supporting the operational readiness of air forces for decades. To continue to benefit from the sustained growth of the aviation industry in the years to come, the company is investing in its expertise, industrial capacities and in future commercial and military engine concepts in Germany and worldwide. With the passion and innovative strength of its employees, MTU is shaping modern aviation – today, tomorrow and in the decades to come.

Media Contacts:

Marc Sauber
Senior Vice President Corporate Communications and Public Affairs
marc.sauber@mtu.de

Markus Woelfle
Director Corporate Communications
Phone: +49 (0)89 1489 8302
Cell: +49 (0)151-174 15 084
markus.woelfle@mtu.de

SOURCE: MTU Aero Engines AG