Retail veteran Christian Bock departs Aldi Süd as unexpected illness results in full time focus on family life

Dr. Christian Bock has left Aldi Süd where he held the position of Manager Stores Strategy.

He had only been in the role since August, having previously worked at Aldi Nord as Team Lead Store Computer Vision.

In a LinkedIn post, Bock said: “Sometimes life presents us with decisions that change everything. For me, such a moment has now come. An unexpected illness has presented us as a family with great challenges and has rearranged our priorities for a few weeks/months.”

“This has made me rethink recently and prompted me to take the step to temporarily withdraw from professional life from November and to terminate my contract with my current, very good employer.”

He added: “The career, the professional success – they have accompanied and fulfilled me for many years. At companies like BearingPoint, Telefonica, REWE and Aldi, I was able to work with great teams and make a difference together. I am proud of what we have achieved together and grateful for the experiences I was able to gain with you.”

“The last few years, if not decades, I have dedicated myself passionately to my professional career. I am particularly proud to have contributed to the further development of these companies as an entrepreneur and digital transformer (especially in recent years with a focus on artificial intelligence).”

“My personal manner, coupled with the challenge and encouragement of my colleagues and especially my managers, has made me what I am today. I am grateful for the opportunities, the deep trust and support I have received, and even more grateful for the people who have accompanied me on my way so far.”

Bock said that he will continue his professional path when the time is right.

“I’m full of energy and still have a lot of ideas that I want to implement. But at the moment, family is the focus of my life. I know that many of you will understand why I am taking this step. And for those who don't: Please respect my decision to shift my focus first and then to fully attack professionally again and get started.”

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

In-store technology is a key focus area for the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards, which is now open for entries.

The awards, sponsored by CADS, 3D Cloud, Brightpearl by Sage’s Lightning 50, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Key 2024 dates

Friday, 25th October: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 29th October: 2024 shortlist revealed

30th October-6th November: Judging days

Thursday, 21st November: Winners announced at the 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.