Timotheus Höttges, CEO of Deutsche Telekom AG, has been recognized with the John J. McCloy Award by the American Council on Germany (ACG). The award was presented at the 32nd McCloy Awards Dinner in New York, where approximately 300 guests from business, politics, and civil society gathered to honor contributions to German-American relations.
Alongside Höttges, Nikesh Arora, Chairman and CEO of Palo Alto Networks, and Ambassador Kristen Silverberg, President and COO of Business Roundtable, were also honored for their efforts in strengthening transatlantic ties.
The ACG highlighted that under Höttges’ leadership Deutsche Telekom has increased its presence in the United States. According to the Council: “The merger of T-Mobile US and Sprint has reshaped the telecommunications landscape in the United States and made 5G available to a large part of the American population – including in previously underserved rural areas.”
In his acceptance speech, Höttges said: “People like John McCloy helped rebuild Germany. That is a legacy we honor. Our responsibility today is to renew the foundations of our countries for a digital, connected world. We see ourselves as bridge-builders between the two continents.” He also noted Deutsche Telekom’s ongoing investments: “Deutsche Telekom connects people, schools and businesses – because connection means participation. We are investing in Europe and the U.S. more than ever before. We connect people and nations.”
Dr. Steven E. Sokol, President and CEO of ACG, stated that this year’s award recognizes three leaders while celebrating German-American relations based on democracy, mutual respect, and cooperation.
Nikesh Arora was acknowledged for his work related to digital security infrastructure in Europe through roles at T-Motion—a former Deutsche Telekom unit—and Palo Alto Networks.
Ambassador Kristen Silverberg received recognition for her diplomatic service as U.S. Ambassador to the European Union and Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs; she now leads initiatives supporting cross-border cooperation at Business Roundtable.
The annual John J. McCloy Awards Dinner brings together leaders from both sides of the Atlantic to recognize individuals who have significantly contributed to German-American relations since its inception in 1993. Proceeds from this event help fund ACG programs such as professional exchanges and conferences focused on transatlantic issues.
The American Council on Germany is a nonpartisan nonprofit founded in 1952 with a mission to promote deeper understanding between Germany and America through various programs spanning generations.
