Just ahead of a major change in German cable TV regulation on 1 July 2024, Philippe Rogge, CEO of Vodafone Deutschland, is stepping down.
Rogge (pictured) has decided to resign from his position and leave the company on 31 March 2024, according to Vodafone Deutschland. His successor will be Marcel de Groot, currently in charge of the consumer business.
“We will continue to do our homework,” said de Groot. “At the same time, we will go on the attack. And use our Vodafone DNA to recreate what we have always been: a strong, fast, courageous and successful telco player. With innovations for our customers. And a strong brand that inspires. I look forward to working with this team to make Vodafone successful.”
Marcel de Groot has over 15 years of management and marketing experience in the telecommunications market. His previous positions include Chief Commercial Officer at Vodafone Ziggo in the Netherlands and Director of Consumer at Vodafone Ireland. Since 2022, de Groot has been Vodafone Deutschland’s director of consumer business.
From 1 July 2024, German housing companies will no longer be able to include the cable TV subscription fee in the ancillary rental costs. The change in federal telecommunications law, affecting up to 12 million households, could lead to a declining number of cable TV customers. Vodafone is Germany’s largest cable operator.
Meanwhile, Ahmed Essam, CEO of Vodafone UK, was appointed CEO European markets and Executive Chair of Germany at Vodafone Group. He will report to Margherita Della Valle, Group Chief Executive, and remain a member of the Vodafone Group Executive Committee.
The CEO of Vodafone Deutschland will report to Essam.