Following the appointment of Evelyn Palla as the new CEO of Deutsche Bahn, a leading rail union has voiced concerns regarding the actions of a rival union during the selection process. Mario Reiß, federal chairman of the GDL, told the Handelsblatt that while his union is offering the new leadership team an opportunity to succeed, they are also establishing a high standard for performance.
The EVG union previously voted against Palla’s appointment during a supervisory board meeting, citing objections to a plan to appoint Dirk Rompf as the head of the DB Network subsidiary, Infrago. The EVG maintains their disagreement wasn’s a reflection of Palla’s capabilities, but rather a protest against the proposed appointment of Rompf.
Reiß characterized the EVG’s actions as a potentially damaging move, stating that while legitimate criticism of past approaches undertaken by individuals can be warranted, obstructing a potential fresh start from the outset poses a significant risk. The GDL confirmed they voted in favor of Palla’s candidacy.