Ruck's Successor Aims for 'New Style' at Vienna Chamber of Commerce

Margarete Kriz-Zwittkovits has officially assumed the presidency of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce, stepping into the role previously held by Walter Ruck. Kriz-Zwittkovits, who served as vice president under Ruck, promised to usher in a "new style" of leadership following her predecessor's abrupt resignation.

Ruck stepped down in late July after media outlets published excerpts from a private conversation. These reports led to his expulsion from the Austrian People's Party (ÖVP) and detailed his alleged involvement in influencing appointments and candidate lists in Vienna. The published remarks also reportedly included sexist comments and unflattering assessments of government ministers and industry representatives.

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I cannot apologize for the words of others. But I can do something else. Namely, put things in order again.

Kriz-Zwittkovits, a former ÖVP representative in Vienna's city council, initially supported Ruck when the controversial statements first emerged. However, she later distanced herself, citing "irritations" and emphasizing a "new beginning" under her leadership. She stated that the recent events had caused significant damage to the Chamber and stressed her commitment to equality and women's rights, declaring, "We live in the year 2026."

As her first official act, Kriz-Zwittkovits has initiated the creation of a code of conduct for Chamber officials. She also spoke of fostering an "open Chamber" where all businesses are treated equally. Kriz-Zwittkovits, who also leads the ÖVP's business association in Vienna, aims to restore trust and improve the public image of the institution.

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We live in the year 2026.