S-Bahn Berlin in mourning: Managing Director Peter Buchner died

S-Bahn Berlin in mourning: Managing Director Peter Buchner died

The Berlin S-Bahn mourns the loss of its long-time managing director Peter Buchner, who died on November 5, 2025, shortly before his 59th birthday. Buchner took over management of the company in 2009 in a crucial crisis situation after S-Bahn operations were largely suspended due to inadequate inspections. These difficult times called for quick action, and Buchner, a passionate rail traveler, was ready to take on the challenge. Over the years he managed to get the S-Bahn back on track and regain the trust of passengers. A big theme was always his openness and his commitment to dialogue with customers, which ultimately earned him an award for excellent customer dialogue. The Tagesspiegel reports that he appeared at the passenger consultation day of the IGEB customer association and was positively received.

Buchner's career in the railway sector is remarkable. After joining the Usedomer Bäderbahn in 1994, he moved to DB Regio AG in 1997, where he held various management positions. This experience, as well as his prudence and humanity, shaped his leadership style, and he will be remembered as a far-sighted manager and valued colleague. His personal connection to the S-Bahn and his generous attitude towards employees and passengers are outstanding features of his work. He leaves behind his wife, a son and over 3,000 employees who will carry on his legacy.

A new era of communication

Compared to his predecessors, Buchner was known for his open manner. This new way of communication was particularly effective in crisis situations. In fact, the first months of the pandemic were a major challenge for public transport. During this time, the ESCaPe PLAN was developed, a decision-making model for rail operators that was also used in times of crisis such as the Covid-19 pandemic. The aim of this plan is to increase company resilience and develop communication strategies. Given Buchner's expertise and deep knowledge of the S-Bahn, one could say that his work in this regard leaves a lasting impression.

The ESCaPe PLAN includes several steps, such as brainstorming and evaluating possible measures to increase security and adaptability. These developments are crucial to increasing resilience in mobility and giving passengers a good feeling even in challenging times.

With Peter Buchner, the S-Bahn has not only lost a committed managing director, but also a conqueror of challenges and an advocate for passengers. His passion for rail and his desire to always achieve the best for users will certainly not be forgotten.