Public Affairs at Bertelsmann

Policymakers at national and European level determine the framework for how we do business. Laws, directives and international agreements don’t arise in a vacuum, but always accompanied by and with the input of civil society. This is the only way to ensure that the concerns of all stakeholders are heard, all problems and opportunities are seen, and the broadest possible consensus is created. Political communications is a key task of public affairs. We maintain direct, open communications with all levels of politics.

Our public affairs managers offer political decision-makers access to expert dialog partners, communicate the latest positions and facts, and provide helpful information. We develop our positions in internal task forces and through membership in organizations, working with in-house as well as external experts. In order for Bertelsmann to have an informed position on specific issues, it is crucial that the public affairs officers coordinate with and between the divisions.

Besides functioning as a discussion forum, “think tank,” database and committee of experts, the offices in Berlin and Brussels and the public affairs officers in the divisions introduce important policymakers to Bertelsmann’s various media services. This includes presenting the international media house’s many different cultural activities and new digital businesses in Bertelsmann’s key markets.

Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA has registered in the Transparency Register of the European Union, and has signed its Code of Conduct.