Focus on values

At SEFE, we build trust through transparent and responsible governance. Integrity, ethical decision-making and a commitment to the highest standards are the cornerstone of our approach. We engage in active dialogue with our stakeholders, integrating their perspectives to drive sustainable value creation.

Public Corporate
Governance Code

PCGK report (DE only)

As a company owned by the German federal government, SEFE is required to comply with the government's Public Corporate Governance Code (PCGK). This code complements statutory requirements and provides a core framework for transparent, responsible and efficient corporate governance. The PCGK sets out clear standards and articulates the government's expectations of us.

By adhering to it, we not only reinforce our internal controls, sustainability efforts and compliance practices, but also strengthen stakeholder confidence and safeguard the integrity of our operations. In April 2024, we published our inaugural report on the PCGK, confirming our adherence to its recommendations and outlining any deviations.

GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE

Transparent and resilient

At SEFE, we’re committed to clear and effective corporate governance. Our governance structures are designed to provide transparency, clarify roles and responsibilities and enable informed decision-making. These foundations are essential for upholding our integrity and driving long-term success.

Our Supervisory Board offers thorough guidance and oversight to the Management Council, ensuring alignment with our strategic objectives and corporate principles. Its structure – based on equal representation – reflects our dedication to diversity and balanced leadership.

The Management Council oversees both SEFE’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations. It plays a central role in shaping corporate development and ensuring that our objectives are met.

To properly and efficiently carry out its duties, the Supervisory Board has established four dedicated committees. These bodies enable informed decision-making, adherence to our standards and effective risk management.

The Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee advises both the Supervisory Board and the Management Council on all aspects relating to sustainable corporate governance and ESG activities. It oversees the integration of sustainability aspects into our business strategy, organisational structures and operational processes and reviews ESG reporting along with the implementation of our ESG strategy.

Members: Dr Marie Sophie Jaroni (Chair), Stephan Kamphues

The Risk Committee oversees the identification, assessment, management and mitigation of key risks across SEFE, providing regular updates on the overall risk landscape. It is also responsible for approving our risk policy and monitoring compliance with established risk limits. Its work is essential for safeguarding the financial stability and operational resilience of the SEFE Group.

Members: Doris Honold (Chair), Dr Charlotte Senftleben-König

The Compliance Committee ensures that the Management Council fulfils its task to establish and maintain a group-wide compliance management system that is adequate, effective and efficient. Its core objective is to prevent breaches of laws and regulations across the organisation and to foster a culture rooted in legal integrity.

Members: Stephan Kamphues (Chair), Reinhard Gorenflos

The Audit and Finance Committee advises the Supervisory Board and the Management Council on key financial matters. Its scope includes the accounting process, internal control and audit systems, the annual financial statement audit and SEFE’s internal audit function. As such, it strengthens financial transparency and safeguards the integrity of our corporate reporting.

Members: Prof. Kai C. Andrejewski (Chair), Doris Honold

Our guiding principles

Consolidated commitment

Sustainability is deeply embedded in our corporate identity. Through a group-wide ESG strategy, we’ve consolidated our commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility and sound governance. Within this framework, our governance objectives serve as guiding principles for our actions – championing transparency, integrity and forward-looking leadership.

Strengthening our compliance culture

Our aim is that all employees complete training on certain compliance topics – including our Code of Conduct and other essential guidelines. In 2024, we already reached a training rate of 98% across SEFE, highlighting our clear commitment to a culture grounded in compliance and integrity.

Annual meeting

We’ve introduced annual stakeholder meetings to deepen engagement with our partners and incorporate their perspectives into our strategic decision-making. A key milestone was the inaugural session in November 2024, where 25 stakeholders shared valuable feedback on our ESG priorities.

Shaping the future

Each year, we launch at least three new innovation partnerships to tap into external expertise, technologies and resources. In 2024, we formed a strategic collaboration with Maiven, a start-up that applies artificial intelligence to analyse energy policy developments. This partnership supports the energy transition and reinforces our technological edge.

Continuous digital advancements

At least 30% of our annual IT budget is allocated to innovation and digitalisation projects – demonstrating our strong commitment to future-oriented technologies and continuous digital advancement. A prime example is our AI Centre of Excellence (AI CoE), founded in 2024, which brings together employees from all SEFE locations to harness the potential of artificial intelligence.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Our Code of Conduct: the cornerstone of integrity

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Ethical conduct is the bedrock of sustainable success. Our Code of Ethics and Conduct serves as the central guiding framework for all employees. It reflects our culture, core values and business principles – while setting high standards for professional and ethical behaviour. Its purpose is to prevent any form of illegal activity – including the mere appearance of misconduct. In doing so, it embeds integrity and accountability throughout the organisation, helping us meet our responsibilities consistently.

WHISTLEBLOWER SYSTEM

Our confidential and secure reporting channel

Whistleblower platform

In 2023, SEFE introduced a comprehensive whistleblowing system that allows the secure and anonymous reporting of misconduct – such as breaches of laws, internal policies or ethical standards, without fear of personal consequences. This initiative strengthens our culture of integrity and transparency.

To guarantee maximum confidentiality and protection for whistleblowers, the reporting channel is operated by WhistleB, an independent external provider.

Further information is available on our Whistleblower Platform.