Scout24's Strategic Leadership Transition and Implications for DAX Growth

The appointment of Martin Mildner as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Scout24 SE marks a pivotal moment in the company's evolution, signaling a strategic alignment between its financial ambitions and the rapidly digitizing real estate market. Effective 1 March 2026, Mildner will succeed Dirk Schmelzer, bringing a track record of financial stewardship in digital enterprises and a deep understanding of capital efficiency-qualities that position Scout24 to capitalize on its current momentum in the European real estate tech sector.

A CFO with Digital and Financial Expertise

Martin Mildner's career trajectory underscores his dual expertise in financial management and digital transformation. As Group CFO of ProSiebenSat.1 Media SE since 2023, he oversaw initiatives that strengthened the company's financial resilience through cost optimization, debt reduction, and strategic divestments according to corporate announcements. Prior to this, his tenure at United Internet AG included leading the successful IPO of IONOS, a digital infrastructure company, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex capital markets. Mildner's earlier roles at the Otto Group, where he managed mergers and acquisitions and served as General Counsel, further highlight his strategic acumen.

This background is particularly relevant for Scout24, a company whose growth is increasingly tied to its ability to balance innovation with profitability. Mildner's emphasis on "shaping the next chapter of growth" aligns with Scout24's recent focus on expanding its AI-powered tools and integrated digital ecosystem. His experience in managing listed companies also suggests a readiness to enhance transparency and investor confidence-a critical factor for a firm aiming to solidify its position in the DAX.

Scout24's 2025 Financial Performance: A Foundation for Growth

Scout24's Q3 2025 results underscore its readiness to leverage leadership transitions for sustained growth. Revenues rose 15.0% year-on-year to EUR 165.6 million, with total revenue for the first nine months reaching EUR 483.8 million-a 15.3% increase. This growth was driven by robust demand for B2B and B2C subscription services, particularly in the Private pay-per-ad segment and CRM solutions. The Professional segment reported a 15.5% rise in subscription revenue to EUR 253.8 million, while the Private segment saw a 21.9% surge to EUR 80.2 million.

The company's margin expansion, with an ordinary operating EBITDA margin of 61.9%, reflects its strategic focus on cost efficiency and operational leverage. This achievement, supported by the integration of acquisitions like Fotocasa and Habitaclia, highlights Scout24's ability to scale while maintaining profitability. Mildner's prior emphasis on efficiency measures at ProSiebenSat.1 and United Internet AG suggests he is well-equipped to sustain this trajectory.

Strategic Alignment: Digital Innovation and Market Expansion

Scout24's long-term strategy hinges on its AI-first approach and the creation of a comprehensive digital ecosystem for real estate stakeholders. Tools like HeyImmo, an AI-powered platform for property searches, exemplify the company's commitment to enhancing user experience and operational efficiency. Additionally, its sales and marketing strategies-centered on content marketing, SEO, and Apple Search Ads optimization- have solidified its dominance in Germany's real estate market.

Mildner's appointment signals a readiness to accelerate these initiatives. His experience in managing digital business models, coupled with his legal background from KPMG and Heuking Kühn Lüer Wojtek, positions him to navigate regulatory complexities. The company's recent acquisitions and focus on data-driven solutions further align with his expertise in leveraging technology for competitive advantage.

Implications for DAX Growth

For investors, Mildner's leadership transition represents a vote of confidence in Scout24's ability to navigate the evolving digital real estate landscape. His track record in optimizing capital structures and driving innovation aligns with the company's goal of becoming a pan-European leader in real estate tech. With the DAX index increasingly favoring firms that demonstrate both financial discipline and digital agility, Scout24's strategic pivot under Mildner's guidance could enhance its appeal to institutional investors seeking growth-oriented equities.

As the company enters 2026, the integration of Mildner's strategic vision with its current financial performance suggests a strong foundation for long-term value creation. For the DAX, this transition could reinforce Scout24's role as a bellwether for digital transformation in traditional industries.