Alexander Otto, born in 1967 in Hamburg, Germany, is a key German billionaire and the former CEO of ECE Projektmanagement, a leading European commercial real estate company. He is the son of the late renowned retail pioneer Michael Otto, and belongs to one of Germany’s wealthiest and most influential business dynasties.

His family legacy is one of social and environmental responsibility, instilled by his father, who also chaired the massive Otto Group mail-order business. Alexander was rigorously educated for leadership: he holds a degree in Economics from Harvard University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. This combination of deep financial training and exposure to American management practices prepared him to manage and expand a complex, capital-intensive real estate empire across Europe.

Alexander Otto’s career has been spent almost entirely within the family’s vast real estate and retail ecosystem. His defining role began with ECE Projektmanagement, the property arm founded by his father in 1965. Alexander took over the operational reins and served as the company’s CEO, successfully guiding its strategy for over two decades.

His strategy focused on creating and managing high-value, large-scale shopping centers and retail assets across Europe. Under his leadership, ECE grew into a dominant force, developing and managing properties in Germany, Poland, Turkey, and other key European markets. He successfully navigated the complex European retail market, transitioning the business from development into long-term asset management. He stepped down from the CEO role in 2021 to become the Executive Chairman of the Supervisory Board of ECE Group, securing the family's long-term influence while transitioning the company's executive leadership.

Alexander Otto’s philanthropy is driven by a deep commitment to social welfare, sports, and cultural heritage in Germany, following the example of his highly charitable father, Michael Otto.

• Alexander Otto Sportstiftung (Sports Foundation): He founded this foundation to provide substantial support for sports and youth development in Hamburg, reflecting his passion for a healthy, active society.
• Cultural and Educational Support: He is a prominent patron of the arts and education, contributing significantly to institutions like the Hamburg State Opera and the University of Hamburg.
• Corporate Responsibility: As Executive Chairman of ECE Group, he oversees the company's strong emphasis on environmental certification and sustainable operation of its massive retail and logistics facilities.