AEIP announces newly elected President, Vice-President, and Board Members

The European Association of Paritarian Institutions (AEIP) is pleased to announce the election of its new President and Vice-President for the 2025–2027 term, as confirmed during the latest General Assembly held on 26 June 2025, in accordance with the Association’s statute.
Mr. Werner Schneider, representing SOKA-BAU (Germany), has been elected President of AEIP for a two-year mandate. Upon his appointment, Mr. Schneider expressed his enthusiasm:
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.
A top priority for my term will be the fight against illegal work, which undermines workers’ rights, distorts fair competition, and threatens social cohesion. In addition, I will advocate for stronger cooperation among member states to address illegal employment and facilitate posting procedures, recognizing that joint efforts are vital to effectively addressing cross-border challenges and upholding the rule of law in labour markets.
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.
Mr. Matthies Verstegen, representing PensioenFederatie (The Netherlands), has been elected Vice-President. He commented on his new role with the following words:
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.
AEIP extends its sincere gratitude to Ms. Katja Veirto, representing the Finnish Pension Alliance – TELA, for her outstanding leadership as President during the 2023–2025 term. The Association also thanks Mr. Carsten Burckhardt, outgoing Vice-President, who is stepping down as a member of the Board of Directors. Their dedication and vision over the past two years significantly advanced AEIP’s mission and objectives.
As she concludes her mandate, Ms. Veirto shared a few words with the AEIP network:
I would like to express my gratitude to the entire AEIP community for their outstanding cooperation and dedication. The paritarian model is becoming increasingly important in today’s uncertain world, and we need a common voice to advocate for it in the future as well. I am confident that during SOKA-BAU’s presidency, we will continue our excellent work together.
AEIP expresses heartfelt appreciation to both Ms. Veirto and Mr. Burckhardt for their impactful contributions and warmly welcomes Mr. Schneider and Mr. Verstegen into their new roles. Their leadership will be instrumental in driving forward AEIP’s values and strategic priorities.
Additionally, AEIP acknowledges and thanks Mr. Florent Sarrazin (AGIRC-ARRCO) and Mr. Denis Laplane (CTIP), whose Board mandates have concluded. Their longstanding commitment has greatly enriched AEIP’s work.
The Association is pleased to welcome three newly appointed members to the Board of Directors:
• Mr. Jacques Ceyssel, CTIP
• Mr. Werner Schneider, SOKA-BAU (in addition to his role as President)
• Mr. Christophe Soupizet, AGIRC-ARRCO
All will serve a six-year term, continuing AEIP’s tradition of a paritarian, collaborative, and value-driven governance.
AEIP looks forward to this new chapter with confidence and enthusiasm.
You can find the full text and document of the press release here.