Early Life
Benjamin Otto was born in Hamburg, Germany in 1975. He is the son of Michael Otto, who led the Otto Group for 26 years, and the grandson of Werner Otto, the founder of the Otto Group. After graduating from high school, Otto completed an apprenticeship as a banker at Germany's oldest private bank and obtained a degree in International Business from the European Business School in London.
Rise to Success
Benjamin Otto's career has been closely tied to the Otto Group. He joined the family business as an executive director in 2012. Since the early 2000s, he has been involved in building several successful companies in retail, electrical engineering, fashion, and project development. He was instrumental in the development of About You, an online fashion retailer. In March 2026, Benjamin Otto took on the role of Chairman of the Foundation Board and Shareholders' Council of the Otto Group, marking the end of an era successfully shaped by his father.
Key Business Strategies
Benjamin Otto, as a leader in the Otto Group, is focused on adapting to the digital landscape. His strategic vision includes a commitment to innovation, with Otto Group's online sales accounting for approximately 12 billion Euros in 2023. His focus also includes sustainable and value-oriented business practices. Otto is steering the Otto Group through market challenges by emphasizing innovation and responsible commerce.
Philanthropy
Benjamin Otto and his wife are active in philanthropic organizations focused on healing through alternative treatment methods. Furthermore, in 2014, Benjamin Otto founded the Burn Out Prevention Center in Hamburg, which conducts seminars on stress reduction and holistic health.
