Walter Ruck resigns; Margarete Kriz-Zwittkovits takes over Vienna business leadership

Walter Ruck, a prominent figure in Vienna's business community, has stepped down from his roles as President of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce (WK Wien) and Chairman of the Vienna Business Association. The resignation was announced on Thursday by the Business Association.

Margarete Kriz-Zwittkovits has been appointed to succeed Ruck in both capacities. The announcement came after Ruck faced intense criticism, including from within his own party, the ÖVP, and the Business Association itself.

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The events of the last weeks have led to understandable irritations that have distracted from our actual work. My task is to organize a new beginning as quickly as possible, restore lost trust, and implement the ongoing reform process swiftly and prudently.

Ruck stated in a board meeting that he was withdrawing into private life. The circumstances leading to his departure were described as having caused "understandable confusion" that detracted from the organizations' core work.

Kriz-Zwittkovits acknowledged the surprise nature of her new responsibilities but expressed enthusiasm for the challenge. She emphasized her commitment to facilitating a fresh start, rebuilding trust, and advancing ongoing reform processes within the Vienna Chamber of Commerce and the Vienna Business Association to ensure a successful future.

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Even though these great tasks come to me by surprise, I am happy about the challenge to contribute so that the Vienna Chamber of Commerce and the Vienna Business Association can move into a successful future.