Amann studied law at Humboldt University of Berlin and the University of Heidelberg, completing her legal traineeship. Her journalistic career began at the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), where she worked from 2006 to 2013. At FAZ, she covered justice and domestic policy, establishing herself as a keen observer of the German legal and political landscape.
In 2013, Amann joined Der Spiegel, initially as a correspondent covering domestic politics, security, and intelligence services. Her reporting often delved into complex and sensitive topics, including the activities of Germany's intelligence agencies and the rise of extremist movements. Her analytical depth and rigorous investigative approach quickly made her a respected voice within the publication.
In 2019, she was appointed head of Der Spiegel's investigative unit, a role in which she oversaw and contributed to many significant journalistic revelations. Under her leadership, the unit produced impactful stories, often focusing on political scandals, security threats, and the inner workings of government and extremist groups.
A notable publication by Amann is her 2017 book, "Angst für Deutschland: Die Wahrheit über die AfD" (Fear for Germany: The Truth about the AfD). This book offered an in-depth, critical examination of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, detailing its origins, ideology, and key figures. It contributed significantly to public understanding of the party's emergence and radicalization.
Amann's work has received professional recognition. In 2021, she was part of the team that received the Henri Nannen Prize, one of Germany's most prestigious journalism awards, for their reporting on the radicalization of the "Querdenken" movement during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Her appointment as co-editor-in-chief of Der Spiegel in 2024 marked a significant milestone in her career, placing her at the helm of a major European news outlet. In this role, she shares editorial responsibility with Dirk Kurbjuweit and Thorsten Dörting, guiding the magazine's journalistic direction and content. Melanie Amann is known for her commitment to factual reporting, critical analysis, and her unwavering focus on holding power accountable.