Clara Streit: Driving Change in German Corporate Governance and Business Practices
Clara Streit, the current chairwoman of the supervisory board of Vonovia, one of Germany’s leading DAX-listed companies, has become a key figure in the nation’s business leadership. Since 2023, Streit has been at the helm of Vonovia’s supervisory board, bringing a wealth of experience and influence to the role. Alongside this, she has led the German Corporate Governance Commission, a body appointed by the government to promote better corporate governance practices across the country. In May 2025, Streit is also set to become the chairwoman of the German Stock Exchange's supervisory board, solidifying her leadership position in the German economy.
In a recent interview with Handelsblatt, Streit discussed her perspectives on corporate governance, business challenges, and the economic climate in Germany. At 56, she stands as a powerful advocate for structural reforms to improve Germany's business environment, urging companies to take a more proactive approach in shaping their strategies for future success.
A Call for Stronger Corporate Oversight
Streit’s leadership style emphasizes the need for supervisory boards to become more engaged in strategic decision-making. She believes that board members must evolve to be more strategically capable in order to be effective “sparring partners” for the executive teams they oversee. Streit urges supervisory boards to move beyond traditional oversight and take a more hands-on approach, actively contributing to long-term planning and decision-making.
Her call for stronger involvement from corporate boards stems from a desire to make boards more agile and effective in dealing with today’s fast-evolving business landscape. As the business world becomes more dynamic, Streit believes that boards must be well-equipped to support companies through periods of change and transformation.
Diversity Efforts and Pragmatism
In her comments on the ongoing debate around diversity in companies, Streit advocates for pragmatism over rigid rule enforcement. While she acknowledges the importance of improving diversity within German companies, she emphasizes the need for a balanced approach, one that is more focused on the practical implementation of diversity initiatives rather than being overly regulated by laws. Streit, a former McKinsey consultant, emphasizes that companies should take steps to foster inclusive environments but without overcomplicating the process with unnecessary rules.
Challenges for German Businesses
Streit expressed her concern about the current business climate in Germany, which she describes as "particularly challenging." She believes that the country’s companies face numerous obstacles, including bureaucratic barriers that impede growth and innovation. Streit is adamant that Germany must address these issues or risk facing even more severe economic consequences, such as higher unemployment, business relocations, or offshoring of jobs and industries.
In her view, it would be a national embarrassment if Germany had to experience such negative effects before the country realizes the urgency of making the necessary structural reforms. Streit is particularly vocal about the bureaucratic hurdles that companies face, which she believes are homegrown problems that can be solved with the right political will and courage. The time for action is now, she asserts.
The Need for Fundamental Reforms
Clara Streit is a strong advocate for structural reform in Germany, arguing that the nation’s business environment needs significant changes in order to remain competitive on the global stage. She highlights that many of the barriers to business growth in Germany, including bureaucracy, are within the country’s control and can be overcome with political commitment. Her remarks reflect a growing dissatisfaction among business leaders in Germany, many of whom are calling for an overhaul of outdated systems and regulations that hinder economic growth and business innovation.
For Streit, the path forward is clear: Germany must adapt to the evolving global market by embracing reform and empowering businesses to thrive. Only with bold, decisive changes can the country position itself as a competitive player in the international marketplace.
