Martin Baumann has announced he will be stepping down as chief executive (CEO) of European ice hockey’s Champions Hockey League (CHL).
In mutual agreement with the CHL board, he has agreed to remain in the role for a few more months to facilitate a transition to a new CEO.
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The CHL and Baumann jointly decided there was a need for “fresh leadership to drive the organization forward.”
Baumann has been CEO for the past decade, culminating in the 2023-24 season that ended last month (February), and is now keen to pursue new challenges and opportunities.
He has served in the role since the inaugural CHL season in 2014-15 and believes the competition “has reached a pinnacle moment where new leadership is necessary to oversee its continued growth and expansion.”
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The decision to step down comes amidst the ongoing realignment project initiated by the extraordinary CHL general assembly in early March. The project aims to “strategically position the CHL for future success” and will be further discussed and decided upon at the upcoming ordinary general assembly in June.
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By GlobalDataBaumann's departure is viewed by the organization as “a proactive step to ensure that this realignment project can be effectively implemented at an operational level.”
The CHL has already started the process of finding a new CEO.
Jörgen Lindgren, CHL president, said: “As Martin has chosen to leave the CHL and embark on a new journey beyond our organization, I wish to express heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the CHL board and all our shareholders for his unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in advancing the Champions Hockey League to its current position of success.
“We are genuinely excited for the opportunities that await Martin in his future endeavors and appreciate the smooth transition period we have agreed together. Martin’s dedication to ensure continuity during this time demonstrates his ongoing commitment to the CHL’s success.”
Lindgren was appointed as president in June 2022 following the retirement of Peter Zahner.
