ZEAL Network SE appoints new Supervisory Board Chairwoman

ZEAL Network SE revealed a major update to its governance framework following the conclusion of its 2025 Annual General Meeting in Düsseldorf. Carola Gräfin von Schmettow was elected as the new Chairwoman of the Supervisory Board, succeeding Peter Steiner, who voluntarily resigned after more than a decade of dedicated service. This transition ushers in a new era of supervisory leadership, combining extensive expertise with a commitment to corporate responsibility and strategic oversight.

Governance transition following the Annual General Meeting

The transition in the Supervisory Board's leadership took place in a transparent and orderly manner, with approximately 71 percent of ZEAL Network SE’s voting share capital represented at the AGM. This high level of shareholder participation reflects confidence in the company’s governance process and sustained interest in its long-term strategic direction.

Immediately after the AGM, the Supervisory Board met and unanimously chose Carola Gräfin von Schmettow to serve as its new Chairwoman. This marks a notable appointment, given her professional background and her previous contributions as a Supervisory Board member since November 2024.

The profile and credentials of Carola Gräfin von Schmettow

Carola Gräfin von Schmettow brings a wealth of experience to the leadership of ZEAL Network SE’s Supervisory Board. She holds an academic background in mathematics, having pursued her studies at the well-respected Heinrich Heine University in Düsseldorf. Her analytical capabilities and structured approach to problem-solving have consistently distinguished her throughout her career.

Upon graduation, Gräfin von Schmettow joined HSBC Germany, embarking on a distinguished professional journey spanning nearly three decades. During her 29 years at HSBC, she occupied numerous strategic roles, culminating in a 17-year tenure on the Management Board. For six of those years, she held the position of spokeswoman, a role that involved significant responsibilities in public representation and internal leadership. Her appointment to ZEAL’s Supervisory Board in late 2024 was seen by industry observers as a logical step that would benefit the company’s oversight mechanisms and align with its strategic goals.

Tribute to outgoing Chairman Peter Steiner

Peter Steiner’s resignation as Chairman and member of the Supervisory Board was met with sincere appreciation and respect. ZEAL Network SE’s CEO, Dr. Helmut Becker, openly commended Steiner for his dedicated contributions. In a formal statement, Dr. Becker praised Steiner’s unwavering commitment and ethical leadership, noting:

“We would like to thank Peter Steiner for his many years of dedicated and responsible work as a member and Chairman of our Supervisory Board. During this time, he was not only a reliable companion and valuable source of inspiration for the Management Board – he was a strategic compass, an anchor of integrity and a person who accompanied ZEAL with foresight and passion.”

Dr. Becker further emphasized Steiner’s key contributions to pivotal phases in the company’s development. These included ZEAL’s return to the German market and a strategic expansion of its business operations. Such milestones are credited in part to the stable and forward-thinking oversight provided by the Supervisory Board under Steiner’s leadership.

Peter Steiner’s professional legacy at ZEAL

Peter Steiner joined ZEAL’s Supervisory Board in June 2013. His initial responsibilities involved chairing the Audit Committee, where he provided critical oversight of the company’s financial reporting and compliance mechanisms. In 2017, he ascended to the role of Chairman of the Supervisory Board, a position he held with distinction, except during the year 2019. During that period, he served as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of LOTTO24 AG—a company that had previously been acquired by ZEAL Network SE, thereby integrating it into its larger operational ecosystem.

Steiner’s professional background as an independent auditor provided the Supervisory Board with financial discipline and a strong framework for risk management. His expertise helped guide ZEAL through complex regulatory environments and significant structural changes.

Strategic developments under Steiner’s leadership

Throughout Peter Steiner’s leadership, ZEAL Network SE experienced numerous significant changes that redefined its market standing. These included:

• The reorientation of ZEAL’s core markets: Under Steiner’s supervision, the company strategically re-entered the German market, reinforcing its position as a key player in digital lottery services.
• Expansion of product and service offerings: The Supervisory Board under his chairmanship supported investments into digital innovation and customer-centric products, facilitating the modernization of lottery experiences.
• Integration of acquisitions: Steiner was instrumental in the successful acquisition and integration of LOTTO24 AG, streamlining operations and consolidating ZEAL’s market presence.
• Focus on compliance and transparency: Given his auditing background, Steiner ensured that governance structures were aligned with best practices, enhancing stakeholder trust.

What the new leadership means for ZEAL

With Carola Gräfin von Schmettow stepping into the role of Chairwoman, ZEAL Network SE enters a new era that combines continuity with renewed strategic vision. Her financial acumen, extensive boardroom experience, and leadership in one of Europe’s prominent banking institutions are expected to bring added depth to the Supervisory Board’s work.

Stakeholders can anticipate a supervisory approach that maintains rigorous standards of oversight while also promoting innovation and growth. Her appointment signals the company’s ongoing commitment to effective governance, long-term value creation, and adherence to regulatory frameworks.

Forward-looking leadership and governance

The transition of supervisory leadership at ZEAL is being viewed positively by analysts and industry observers alike. In an environment increasingly shaped by regulatory scrutiny, consumer expectations, and digital transformation, the composition and effectiveness of the Supervisory Board will remain central to ZEAL’s ability to navigate change.

With her background in financial services, mathematics, and board governance, Gräfin von Schmettow is uniquely positioned to guide the Supervisory Board through the company’s next growth phase. ZEAL’s commitment to ethical leadership, strong oversight, and shareholder engagement remains evident in this well-managed transition.

Conclusion

The leadership change at ZEAL Network SE reflects a thoughtful approach to succession planning and corporate governance. Peter Steiner’s contributions have left a lasting imprint on the company, while Carola Gräfin von Schmettow’s election opens new possibilities for strategic development and responsible stewardship. As ZEAL continues to evolve in a competitive and regulated digital environment, the role of its Supervisory Board—now under new leadership—will be more vital than ever.

FAQs

Who is the new Chairwoman of the ZEAL Network SE Supervisory Board?
Carola Gräfin von Schmettow has been elected as the new Chairwoman of ZEAL Network SE’s Supervisory Board.

When did Peter Steiner step down from ZEAL Network SE?
Peter Steiner stepped down at the conclusion of the 2025 Annual General Meeting after serving for over 12 years.

What is Carola Gräfin von Schmettow’s professional background?
She studied mathematics and worked at HSBC Germany for 29 years, including 17 years on the Management Board and six years as its spokeswoman.

What role did Peter Steiner play in ZEAL’s development?
Steiner led the Supervisory Board through major initiatives, including ZEAL’s return to the German market and the acquisition of LOTTO24 AG.

Why was Carola Gräfin von Schmettow chosen as Chairwoman?
She was elected due to her extensive leadership experience, financial expertise, and contributions as a Supervisory Board member since 2024.

How much of ZEAL’s voting share capital was represented at the AGM?
Approximately 71 percent of the voting share capital was represented during the 2025 Annual General Meeting.

Did Peter Steiner hold other roles within ZEAL or its affiliates?
Yes, he also served as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of LOTTO24 AG in 2019, a ZEAL-acquired company.

What will Gräfin von Schmettow’s leadership focus on?
Her leadership is expected to emphasize governance, financial oversight, and strategic innovation aligned with ZEAL’s growth plans.

How has ZEAL responded to this leadership change?
The transition was smooth and well-received, with formal acknowledgments of gratitude and confidence in the new leadership.

What is the significance of this change for shareholders?
The new leadership reflects a continuity of strong governance while introducing fresh perspectives to guide future strategy.