The managing director is the corporate officer appointed to represent a GmbH. A company may have one or several managing directors. Management and ownership are different roles.
Meaning and context
A director need not be a shareholder. A shareholder is not authorised to represent the company solely through ownership. Directors’ names in an extract therefore do not replace the shareholder list.
What the documents show
Read representation rules alongside personal details. Several directors may have to act jointly, although different arrangements are possible. Any exemption from section 181 BGB requires separate attention.
Research tip
Use an extract relevant to the research date. Earlier representation may require a chronological record. The registration date does not in every situation equal the legal beginning or end of an appointment.