Are you sitting comfortably while reading this? Perhaps on an office chair or on a sofa at home? It is quite possible you are benefiting from a product of the Häfele company. The components manufactured by this global leader from the northern Black Forest are found in millions, perhaps billions, of furniture pieces worldwide. The production and distribution of furniture fittings, construction fittings, and electronic locking systems is the core business of the Häfele Group, which employs about 8,000 people and generates a total revenue of 1.7 billion euros.

Family Entrepreneur, IHK Vice President...

Sibylle Thierer led the family business in the third generation. For twenty years, the trained carpenter and graduate export economist directed the innovative specialist's affairs from Nagold. Since early 2023, the Vice President of the IHK Nordschwarzwald has been an honorary member of the Eurochambres Presidium, representing German companies in Brussels.

The umbrella organization of European chambers of commerce and industry represents more than 20 million businesses in over 40 countries. It acts as an advocate for business interests at the European level and coordinates the joint interest representation of national chamber organizations.

... and Enthusiastic European

Thanks to her many years of entrepreneurial activity in Germany, Europe, and worldwide, Sibylle Thierer is an enthusiastic European: "Europe is my heartfelt concern. We have already achieved a lot, such as the single market and the shaping of the European economic area. We use these achievements daily in our company. I want to contribute to ensuring that successful business across borders remains possible."

Politics Must Improve the Framework for Business

What has Sibylle Thierer set out to achieve in Brussels? "Many companies are struggling with disrupted supply chains and high energy prices. The shortage of skilled workers and the still excessively high bureaucratic burdens are putting increasing pressure on businesses. Politics must improve the framework for business, especially in times of crisis and particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises." She is familiar with many problems from her own entrepreneurial experience.

Taking on different positions, keeping a clear head during conflicts, but ultimately advocating resolutely for one's own interests: Many of the skills needed to lead a large company are also valuable at the negotiating tables of Brussels institutions. This is the role of Sibylle Thierer as Vice President of Eurochambres: giving German business a strong voice in Europe.