The Supervisory Board of Vonovia SE has unanimously appointed Katja Wunschel as the company's new Chief Development Officer (CDO), effective June 1, 2026. Wunschel, currently CEO of RWE Renewables Europe & Australia GmbH, will join Vonovia on April 1, 2026, for a two-month induction period before succeeding Daniel Riedl, who will leave the board by mutual agreement on May 31, 2026.
Clara C. Streit, Chair of the Supervisory Board, highlighted Wunschel's extensive experience in project management and large investment projects, particularly in construction and development. Streit noted that Wunschel's expertise will be instrumental in advancing Vonovia's new housing initiatives, especially modular construction, which has been a key growth driver since 2018. "Development has been a key component of the company's growth since 2018," Streit said. "We are delighted that our new construction business will continue to be in responsible hands."
Wunschel brings over two decades of leadership in the energy sector, including roles at RWE Renewables, E.ON, and Bayer Group. She expressed enthusiasm for transitioning to the real estate sector, noting the shared need for standardized project delivery. "What both industries have in common is the need to deliver multiple projects at the same time while maintaining a high level of standardisation," she said. "For me, these similarities in project development and implementation are an exciting foundation for entering a new phase in modular construction."
In addition, the Supervisory Board renewed the contract of CHRO Ruth Werhahn ahead of schedule until September 30, 2029. Werhahn, who has overseen Human Resources, the Vonovia Technical Service, IT, and Central Services since October 2023, was praised for advancing the company's employer brand and corporate culture. Streit emphasized the strategic importance of HR amid demographic change and skilled worker shortages. "Especially during times of demographic change and an increasing shortage of skilled workers, HR plays a crucial strategic role," Streit said.
Werhahn expressed gratitude for the renewed trust and highlighted the company's growth, noting that Vonovia attracted around 2,800 new employees this year, primarily in maintenance. "A modern and appealing corporate culture is essential for business growth, both now and in the future," she said.
Vonovia SE, Europe's leading private residential real estate company, manages 533,000 residential units across Germany, Sweden, and Austria. The company focuses on sustainability and innovation as part of its 2028 growth strategy, which includes strengthening its Value-add, Development, and Recurring Sales segments, promoting serial modernization, modular new construction, and modern heating infrastructure. Vonovia has been listed on the stock exchange since 2013 and is a constituent in the DAX and other indices. For more information, visit the original release at NewMediaWire.
