d&b Group Announces Leadership Transition

The d&b group, the professional audio technology company that combines d&b audiotechnik, the manufacturing side of the firm, and d&b solutions, the service-focused business entity, announced a reorganization of its leadership. Effective January 1, 2026, Amnon Harman will step down as Chief Executive Officer after more than 11 years, handing over the role to Jaakko Kaivonen, the current Chief Revenue Officer. The move is described as a "carefully prepared transition."
 
The CEO transition, effective January 1, 2026 marks an important step in d&b’s next growth phase as the German group faces increasing competition in the global stage. Amnon Harman will remain closely connected to d&b as shareholder. After ensuring the transition until end of the year, he will join the d&b supervisory board in January and will continue to support the management team and the investors in this capacity.
 
Since 2014, Amnon Harman has been instrumental in shaping d&b’s development. Under his leadership, both revenue and headcount have more than quadrupled, outpacing the market. The company has expanded internationally and strengthened its position as a leading provider of professional audio technologies and solutions.

"It has been a great pleasure, honor, and also a responsibility to help shape d&b over the past 11 years into the leading audio technology company we are today. Together with many brilliant minds inside and outside of d&b, we have advanced the company strategically, culturally, and financially. The foundation for further growth has been laid, and for me the time has come to pass responsibility for the next growth phase into safe hands. I am convinced that with his experience, international perspective, and deep understanding of our customers and culture, Jaakko is the right CEO to lead d&b into a strong future," says Amnon Harman. 
  He is handing over the responsibility of leading the company to Jaakko Kaivonen, which joined the d&b group in early 2025 and, as Chief Revenue Officer, has been responsible for global sales and customer activities. During this time, he has strengthened d&b’s international market presence and deepened collaboration with customers and partners. Previously, he gained extensive international management experience in leading global sales and business organizations in the industrial machinery sector. 

"I would like to thank Amnon for his trust and close collaboration during my time at d&b so far," says Jaakko Kaivonen. "d&b has a unique culture, outstanding people, and a strong product portfolio. I look forward to working with our customers, the management team and all colleagues to shape the next phase of our development – with a focus on innovation, market proximity, and sustainable growth."

Founded in Germany in 1981, d&b headquarters are located in Backnang, near Stuttgart. With offices in major cities around the world, the global d&b team numbers more than 1000 professionals.
www.db.group | www.dbaudio.com | www.dbsolutions.com