Axel Springer Editor Jan Philipp Burgard Ousted After Conduct Probe

Jan Philipp Burgard, the editor in chief of the center-right broadsheet Welt, a publication of German media giant Axel Springer, was ousted following an internal investigation into alleged inappropriate behavior at a company event. The investigation, which began this month, was triggered by a media inquiry regarding Burgard's behavior at an alcohol-filled company Christmas party in December, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The investigation centered on whether Burgard, 41, behaved inappropriately toward female employees of Axel Springer at the party, including allegations of unwanted kissing, two of the people said. As a result of the investigation, Burgard resigned from his position.

Axel Springer executives received a media inquiry about Mr. Burgard’s behavior at the company Christmas party in December.

Burgard's departure impacts the leadership structure of Welt. He is being replaced by Helge Fuhst, a top editor at the German public broadcaster.

Axel Springer is a major media conglomerate with significant holdings in American publications, including Politico and Business Insider.