Media giant Axel Springer names new Middle East director based in Abu Dhabi
European media and technology conglomerate Axel Springer is to expand into the UAE for the first time after naming a new Middle East managing director to be based in Abu Dhabi. Frank Mahlberg, who currently serves as chief operating officer of Germany's Bild Group, will take up the newly created role in the capital on October 1. Axel Springer , which was established in 1946 and is based in…
Axel Springer, a European media and technology conglomerate, has announced the appointment of a new Middle East managing director to oversee its operations in the UAE. Frank Mahlberg, currently chief operating officer of Germany's Bild Group, will assume the role starting October 1. Axel Springer, founded in 1946 and headquartered in Berlin, is expanding into the UAE for the first time, seeking to strengthen its presence in digital and AI-supported journalism.
In April, Axel Springer acquired UK's Telegraph Media Group from RedBird IMI in a £575 million deal. RedBird IMI, a joint venture between New York-based private-equity firm RedBird Capital Partners and IMI, had acquired the Telegraph and The Spectator magazine in 2023. However, a change in British law prompted the consortium to seek a new buyer. The Spectator was eventually sold to hedge fund manager Paul Marshall for £100 million.
Claudius Senst, executive board member for publishing at Axel Springer, highlighted the significance of the company's entry into the UAE market. "Today, the United Arab Emirates ranks among the world’s foremost destinations for technology and innovation," Senst said. "We want to be closer to the developments that may become relevant to our brands and businesses."
To establish its presence in the region, Axel Springer has already invested in The Circuit, a newsletter covering Middle Eastern business and technology trends, and provides tailored briefings for institutions, companies, and industry events. Mahlberg will coordinate Axel Springer's activities in the UAE and represent the company regionally.
His responsibilities will include building new partnerships and identifying growth opportunities for the company's brands and products. Mahlberg stated, "Axel Springer will use its presence in this dynamic region to build new relationships and partnerships for our brands and businesses," emphasizing the company's commitment to growth and values-driven expansion in the UAE market.
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