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Matthias Baeumer
OUR PUMA FAM IN THE SPOTLIGHT
May 26, 2025OUR PUMA FAM IN THE SPOTLIGHT
May 26, 2025With over a decade of experience in leadership at PUMA, Matthias Bäumer has recently stepped into his biggest role yet: Chief Commercial Officer. But beyond the boardroom, you’ll find him on the road in a camper van, lingering over long breakfasts, or embracing island life. From football nostalgia to family, horses, and humor, we sat down with Matthias to get to know the person behind the title – and what truly keeps him grounded.
Matthias, what does greatness look like to you, personally?
Every human that creates value, takes care of others and has a sustainable impact embodies greatness for me.
Do you remember your first PUMA product? What was it, and when did you get it?
These were my beloved PUMA KINGS at an age of 8 – 1974 the year of the World Cup, Germany against Holland 2:1 with Johan Cruyff on the pitch. Still feels as if it was yesterday.
What core values guide you in life?
Don’t lie – so you don’t have to remember anything, apologize if you have to. Respect all people, all animals and nature equally.
What’s one achievement that still lights you up inside?
My biggest achievement, I would say, was to find THE place to live with my family. Three years ago, we found a beautiful home and we now have three horses, three cats and the best dog ever. And of course, two beautiful kids and the most beautiful wife I can imagine.
What do you love doing when you’re free to be completely yourself?
Spending spare time with my dog Simba on Mallorca or getting away with the Camper Van … and Simba. And I love having a 3-hour-breakfast with a gossip newspaper like Bild.
You’ve got one evening in a brand-new city – where does your curiosity take you?
Honestly, it depends on where I am. But in general, I like to step outside into the city life and just go with the flow.
When was the last time you did something totally out of character – and what happened?
That happened a long time ago. It will stay a secret forever!
What’s something that never fails to embarrass you (but still makes you smile later)?
My kids not flushing the toilet.
What part of yourself are you most grateful for?
My compassion, my humor and of course my family.
Which fictional character (from a book or elsewhere) feels a bit like you?
That’s a tough one. Definitely not a fictional, more a real one. And there can only be one answer: my daughter Marie Helene.
Which book is currently on your bedside table?
Ha ha ha, the PUMA Orderbook 2025.
What’s something quirky about you that you can laugh at?
Sometimes, my English is a bit free-style and people look confused. Then I use some analogies and phrases to make it clear and everyone gets it. Well, let’s say most of them.
What kind of mistakes are easiest for you to forgive?
The ones people don’t try to hide. Mistakes are part of life. Don’t hide them. Shit happens.
If you had a personal motto, what would it be?
I have a few favourite phrases (again) that I love saying all day long. One is: “Every morning a new ship leaves the harbour”- makes me relaxed. And another good one is: “the grass is not growing faster if you pull it” – creates patience when needed.
But my overarching personal motto is:
Don’t take yourself too seriously!
