GLS Group (General Logistics Systems), one of the largest self-reliant parcel services providers in Europe, has announced the appointment of Dr Karl Pfaff as its new chief executive officer, effective October 1. Previously Pfaff was group area managing director responsible for Germany and Benelux.
Dr Pfaff has a proven track record in international logistics. He joined GLS in 2014 after working for Lufthansa Group and Bain & Company. He held various positions in strategy, sales and operational management at GLS before being appointed CEO of GLS Germany in 2020 and joining the GLS Group Executive Team.
Outgoing CEO Martin Seidenberg commented, “I am delighted to appoint Karl as Group CEO of GLS. Under Karl’s leadership, GLS Germany has grown significantly in revenue and profitability. He managed GLS’s transition to a highly customer-centric B2B and B2C parcel network while successfully navigating the company through the turbulent times of the pandemic, strong inflation and international economic and political challenges. Karl has significantly contributed to the ongoing group-wide digital transformation and to making GLS a more sustainable company.”
Dr Pfaff said, “It is a privilege to be appointed to lead GLS Group. GLS is an exceptional business with great potential, outstanding people and a strong brand. We will remain focused on quality and profitable growth in the current challenging macro-economic environment. Through continued investment in our people, digital excellence and quality, we want to strengthen the foundation for outstanding customer experience.”
In 2022/23, GLS generated record revenues of €5.4bn (US$5.7bn) and delivered 862 million parcels across 40 countries.