WHU Initiative Supports the Next Generation of Female Leaders

Women continue to be significantly underrepresented in leadership positions. Fem. – Female Leadership at WHU, a student-led initiative at WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management, aims to help change that. Under the motto “Riding the Waves of Change, Sailing Beyond Limits,” the initiative will host the Fem. Summit 2026 on Saturday, January 24, starting at 8:30 a.m., at the WHU campus in Vallendar.

The event will bring together industry leaders, politicians, journalists, entrepreneurs, and students to exchange ideas, share experiences, and help shape the future of female leadership. Among the speakers are Melanie Kreis (CFO, DHL), Dagmar Rosenfeld (The Pioneer), Erich Vad (former security policy advisor to Angela Merkel), Bettina Stark-Watzinger (former Federal Minister of Education and Research), and other distinguished guests, who will offer personal insights into their careers and professional journeys.

In addition to attending keynote speeches, participants will have the opportunity to engage in panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and fireside chats. The event’s corporate partners—Bain & Company, BNP Paribas, and Monitor Deloitte—will also be on site with interactive workshops, providing valuable perspectives on leadership and the future of work.

Since its founding, Fem. – Female Leadership at WHU has been dedicated to advancing gender equality in business and empowering the next generation of female leaders. The initiative actively encourages and supports young women in their personal and professional development through impactful partnerships with companies and academic institutions. It also offers numerous networking opportunities and inspiring events.

Interested participants can register for the Fem. Summit 2026 here.