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Marco Santos to become CEO of GFT Technologies SE - Seite 2

“Over the past two decades, Jochen Ruetz has been a key figure in the success and professionalism of GFT,” says Ulrich Dietz. “His sound financial expertise, leadership skills and strategic foresight are important foundations for a new era of growth. He is therefore predestined to be Deputy CEO.” 

“I am delighted that Marco and Jochen will continue to develop GFT together,” says Marika Lulay. “I have been working very closely and trustingly with both for many years. I therefore know that both live the values of GFT and cultivate a management style that will motivate our teams around the world to reach new heights of performance.”

Looking back on Marika Lulay's tenure and ahead to the future of GFT, Ulrich Dietz said: “Marika Lulay has shaped GFT for over 20 years, first as COO and then as CEO. Together with our team, she has developed GFT into a company that occupies a leading and recognised position worldwide. The successful international expansion in particular is largely due to Marika Lulay's strategy. The Administrative Board would like to thank her for her unconditional commitment. She has set high standards for her successors. With Marco Santos and Jochen Ruetz, we have found an excellent succession plan that emphasises continuity and our ambitions for exponential growth. I am sure that GFT will continue to develop successfully with the new team.”

Marco Santos has been appointed CEO of GFT.

Curriculum vitae Marco Santos

Marco Santos joined GFT in 2011. He was initially the Country Manager of GFT Brazil, and then headed up GFT’s Latin American operations. In 2020, he also assumed responsibility for GFT USA and was appointed to the GFT Group Executive Board. In 2023, he was promoted to CEO at GFT Americas leading operations throughout North and Latin America.

He has deep knowledge of Artificial Intelligence, Next Generation Digital Platforms, cloud modernisation, general management, professional services and customer experience. His track record expands across multiple sectors, with special attention to financial services and manufacturing.

With more than 28 years in the technology sector, since joining GFT in 2011, Marco has helped transform clients’ digital visions into tangible realities – and in the process expand the company's operations within North and Latin America. In his previous role as Head of GFT Brazil, for example, Marco was responsible for starting up the operation in the market and growing its team substantially.