Vonovia Announces Key Executive Appointments to Drive Development and Human Resources Strategy

The Supervisory Board of Vonovia SE unanimously decided to appoint Katja Wunschel as the new Chief Development Officer of the company. She will join Vonovia on April 1, 2026, and assume her position on the Executive Board on June 1, 2026. Wunschel will succeed Daniel Riedl, who is leaving the Vonovia Board by mutual agreement on May 31, 2026, following a two-month induction period for his successor.

Clara C. Streit, Chair of the Supervisory Board of Vonovia, stated that the appointment brings a highly experienced business leader to the company's development business. Wunschel possesses extensive experience in project management and implementing large investment projects. Her knowledge in planning and executing construction and development projects is expected to be valuable for advancing new housing initiatives, particularly modular construction at Vonovia. Development has been a key growth component for the company since 2018.

Katja Wunschel has served as Chief Executive Officer at RWE Renewables Europe & Australia GmbH since 2022, a company focused on developing, building, and operating onshore wind and solar farms. Prior to this role, she was Chief Operating Officer at the predecessor organization, RWE Renewables GmbH, starting in 2019. With over two decades in the energy sector, including positions at E.ON and Bayer, Wunschel brings a background in renewable energies and project standardization to Vonovia.

In her statement, Wunschel expressed enthusiasm for the new challenges at Vonovia, noting similarities between the energy and housing sectors in managing multiple projects with high standardization levels. She views these parallels as an exciting foundation for entering a new phase in modular construction.

Concurrently, the Supervisory Board renewed the contract of CHRO Ruth Werhahn ahead of schedule until September 30, 2029. Werhahn has been responsible for Human Resources, Vonovia Technical Service, IT, and Central Services since October 2023. Streit highlighted Werhahn's progress in developing the employer brand and corporate culture, emphasizing the strategic importance of HR amid demographic changes and skilled worker shortages.

Ruth Werhahn acknowledged the trust placed in her, stating that a modern corporate culture is essential for business growth. She noted that Vonovia attracted approximately 2,800 new employees this year, primarily in maintenance, and emphasized the role of employees in the company's business success and community responsibilities.

These executive decisions underscore Vonovia's commitment to strategic leadership in development and human resources as part of its broader growth strategy. The appointments may influence the company's focus on modular construction and sustainability initiatives, potentially impacting the residential real estate sector in Europe. For stakeholders, including investors and tenants, these moves signal continuity and expertise in key operational areas, aligning with Vonovia's goals for innovation and service excellence in housing.