Deutsche Bank has appointed DWS chief executive Stefan Hoops to its management board.
Hoops will take up the role on 1 May, while continuing as CEO of DWS. In his new position, he will assume responsibility for Deutsche Bank’s asset management segment at group level. DWS will remain a separately listed entity with its own strategy, governance and leadership structure.
The bank has identified the division as a key pillar in its plan to expand its role as a global, full-service relationship bank.
The appointment built on strategic priorities outlined at Deutsche Bank’s investor day in November 2025 and DWS’s results presentation in January 2026.
Hoops’ dual role is expected to support this effort, particularly in areas such as retirement solutions and cross-border distribution. Germany’s evolving pension framework is seen as a significant opportunity for asset managers, while DWS is also positioning itself as a gateway for international investors seeking exposure to European markets.
Deutsche Bank said that DWS will continue to operate independently, maintaining its existing corporate structure and strategic direction.
Alongside the DWS executive board, Hoops will remain focused on delivering the firm’s growth plan. The asset manager is targeting annual earnings per share growth of 10–15% and a cost-income ratio below 55% by 2027.
“We welcome the appointment of Stefan Hoops to the Deutsche Bank Management Board”, said Oliver Behrens, chairman of the supervisory board of DWS. “It is a strong signal for the importance of DWS for Deutsche Bank’s growth strategy. At the same time, it reflects DWS’ strategic growth potential and recognises the excellent work that Stefan and his team have delivered over the past years. We are looking forward to his continued engagement for our company and wish him all the best for his additional responsibilities.”
James von Moltke, president of Deutsche Bank and currently responsible for the Asset Management, said: “The strong leadership team at DWS, with the support of its Supervisory Board, has taken significant strides to position the company for profitable growth. I have tremendous confidence in Stefan’s ability to continue executing DWS’ strategy to create value for all shareholders while ensuring to maximise the benefits of the Group’s capabilities for clients and all stakeholders. It has been an honor and a privilege to work with talented team at DWS as segment representative on the Management Board over the past three years.”
