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Dennis Fehr
CFO - Board Director
Professional Background
Dennis Fehr is an accomplished CFO and Board Director known for driving strategic initiatives and significant business results across various sectors. With a career spanning multiple continents, Dennis possesses a wealth of experience in finance, particularly within manufacturing and project-oriented businesses. His journey reflects a profound balance between analyzing detailed financial data and considering the broader operational picture, making him particularly effective in guiding organizations through periods of growth and transformation.
Currently, as the CFO of Fluence, Dennis is steering the company through an impressive phase of exponential growth. He recognizes that talent is fundamental to success; therefore, he focuses on hiring exceptional individuals and fostering a culture of ownership and accountability within his high-performing team. With his dry, analytical approach, he simplifies complex financial issues and helps the organization stay aligned with its strategic objectives.
Before joining Fluence, Dennis held several significant roles at Siemens, where he demonstrated his leadership prowess and expertise in financial management. He successfully led two high-stakes M&A projects, including the acquisition of a 49% stake in a European company and the creation of Fluence, a 50:50 joint venture formed between Siemens and The AES Corporation. Furthermore, Dennis has a proven track record of orchestrating successful business turnarounds, deploying cost reduction initiatives, and right-sizing organizations to rejuvenate a global project business and a regional manufacturing unit.
In the earlier stages of his career, Dennis focused on implementing ERP systems across various Siemens factories. He played a critical role in supporting factory relocations and downsizing projects, demonstrating a strong capacity for operational efficiency. Dennis also developed controlling guidelines and implemented them at essential manufacturing sites, contributing to enhanced financial governance within the organization.
Education and Achievements
Dennis holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Business Administration from the Baden-Wuerttemberg Cooperative State University (DHBW). His educational background has provided him with a solid footing in business principles, equipping him with the skills needed to excel in the finance sector.
In addition to his successful career in the corporate world, Dennis has contributed to the non-profit sector. He currently serves on the Board of the German International School in Washington, D.C., where he focuses on strengthening financial governance and ensuring the institution operates within sustainable fiscal parameters. Previously, he was on the Board of the German International School in Jakarta, Indonesia, further showcasing his commitment to education and community involvement.
Notable Achievements
- CFO at Fluence: Leading financial strategy during a period of unprecedented growth.
- Successful M&A Projects: Instrumental in the merger and acquisition process, particularly the creation of Fluence.
- Cost Reduction Initiatives: Successfully executed strategies that turned around multiple businesses, achieving significant cost savings.
- ERP System Implementation: Managed the implementation of ERP systems at Siemens factories, enhancing business operations and financial management.
- Leadership in Non-Profits: Active Board Director roles in educational institutions, emphasizing financial governance and sustainability.
In summary, Dennis Fehr is not only a strategic thinker with a keen eye for financial detail but also a collaborative leader attuned to nurturing talent and promoting operational excellence. His diverse international experience and solid educational foundation continue to support his contributions to both corporate finance and the non-profit sector. As his career evolves, Dennis Fehr remains dedicated to driving innovation and success within the organizations he leads.