Erik Tim Müller, the long-serving CEO of Eurex Clearing AG, will step down from his role after next month and leave Deutsche Börse Group by the end of the year.

Having dedicated nearly three decades to the financial exchange operator, Müller reportedly plans to embark on new entrepreneurial ventures. His departure signals a leadership transition for one of Europe’s key derivatives markets.

“Over the last ten years, Erik Tim Müller was a driving force in positioning Eurex as a true partner to the industry and natural home of the Euro with clients, regulators, central banks and governments globally. We are grateful to him for his essential contribution and dedication to Eurex,” Thomas Book, Deutsche Börse’s Executive Board Member for Trading & Clearing, said.

A Career Spanning Nearly Three Decades

Müller joined Deutsche Börse in 1997 and reportedly played a significant role in the company’s post-IPO phase, overseeing Group Treasury and Investor Relations. He is experienced in corporate strategy and mergers & acquisitions, having led leadership roles at Eurex Clearing AG and the Eurex Deutschland Management Board.

According to the company’s announcement, Beyond Deutsche Börse, he has also contributed to global financial markets, serving on the Board of ISDA and participating in the CFTC’s Global Markets Advisory Committee.

Stephan Leithner, CEO of Deutsche Börse Group, highlighted Müller’s entrepreneurial mindset and stakeholder focus. “We thank Erik Tim Müller for almost three decades of commitment to Deutsche Börse Group. His entrepreneurship and stakeholder focus helped position Eurex for future growth,” Leithner said.

In response to the announcement, Müller expressed gratitude for his time at the company, saying, “It's been a great honor to help shape the successful development of Deutsche Börse Group and Eurex in different leadership roles. Thank you to all colleagues, clients, partners, and regulators for your continued support.”

Transition Plan Remains Unclear

Müller’s decision to step down raises questions about Eurex's future direction under new leadership. While the transition plan remains unclear, Müller has committed to supporting the process to ensure stability.

His successor will inherit a strong market position, but challenges such as evolving regulatory landscapes and competitive pressures will shape Eurex’s next chapter.

As Deutsche Börse prepares for this leadership shift, the industry will closely watch who steps in to continue Müller’s legacy and steer Eurex’s future growth.