The European Association of Paritarian Institutions (AEIP) has announced that Werner Schneider, representing SOKA-BAU (Germany), has been elected president.

In addition to this, Dutch Federation of Pension Funds (Pensioenfederatie) representative, Matthies Verstegen, has been elected as vice president of the AEIP.

Schneider succeeds former president and representative for the Finnish Pension Alliance – Tela, Katja Veirto, who finished her two-year term this year, whilst Verstegen replaces Carsten Burckhardt, who is stepping down as a member of the board.

The appointments, which were confirmed at the latest General Assembly on 26 June 2025, are both for a two-year term (2025-2027).

Schneider said that a key priority for his term as president would be the fight against illegal work, "which undermines workers’ rights, distorts fair competition, and threatens social cohesion".

In addition to this, he said that he would advocate for stronger cooperation among member states to address illegal employment and facilitate posting procedures, recognising that joint efforts are "vital" to effectively addressing cross-border challenges.

He stated: "As the newly appointed president, I am firmly committed to championing the paritarian model, which plays a vital role in fostering social dialogue, promoting fairness, and ensuring sustainable labour relations. This model remains crucial for maintaining a balanced relationship between employers and employees within Europe’s evolving labour market.

"With this strategic agenda, I aim to reinforce AEIP’s position as a key player in promoting fair labour practices and strengthening social partnership throughout Europe."

Adding to this, Verstegen said: "I’m honoured to take up the role of vice chair of AEIP at a time when paritarian institutions are more important than ever.

"Rooted in social dialogue and joint governance, they ensure that occupational pensions are managed responsibly, sustainably and in the best interest of workers. I look forward to working with my colleagues across Europe to strengthen our voice and promote the unique value that paritarian governance brings to social protection systems."

There have also been broader changes to the board, as the AEIP confirmed that the board mandates of Florent Sarrazin (representing AGIRC-ARRCO) and Denis Laplane (representing CTIP) have now concluded.

Two new members have since been appointed to succeed the pair, in addition to the appointment of Schneider as a board member: Jacques Creyssel, representing CTIP, and Christophe Soupizet, on behalf of AGIRC-ARRCO.

All three will serve a six-year term on the board.

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