Effective 1 March 2026, the GS-Foundation has expanded its management team: Michael Schemke has taken on the role of second CEO and will lead the organisation alongside Nicole Mechehrawi. The decision is a structural response to the growing scope of work.

Consistent further development of an existing collaboration

Michael Schemke has been associated with the GS-Foundation since July 2025. As a strategic advisor, he supported key projects in the area of international reform partnerships and the establishment of the network in Germany.

Before retiring, he held leadership positions, including Deputy Police President in Krefeld and Police Inspector – the highest uniformed position in North Rhine-Westphalia. He brings experience that is directly relevant to what the GS-Foundation does: supporting institutional change, building trust, and embedding reforms for the long term.

The expansion of the management team is the logical continuation of this collaboration.

Comments on the decision

Nicole Mechehrawi:

‘Our work is growing – in scope, in complexity, in responsibility. With Michael Schemke, we are gaining a leader who knows how to keep institutions stable and develop them further in complex environments.’

Michael Schemke:

‘Sustainable security reform requires stable institutions and reliable partnerships. I have focused my entire professional career on this – and that is exactly the work that awaits me in this new role.’