SHERIDAN, WYOMING – September 16, 2025 – The German Hotel and Restaurant Association (DEHOGA Bundesverband) has announced a leadership transition that underscores the evolving priorities of Germany’s hospitality industry. Jana Schimke, a seasoned policymaker with extensive economic expertise, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on January 1, 2026, succeeding Ingrid Hartges, who retires after two decades of service.
Experienced Leadership with Strong Political and Economic Background
Schimke joins DEHOGA with a dual track record in business advocacy and parliamentary leadership. Before her 12-year tenure as a CDU Member of Parliament, where she chaired the Bundestag Tourism Committee, she held senior positions at the Confederation of German Employers’ Associations (BDA). Her political portfolio and experience in economic policymaking position her to navigate the pressing challenges of the hotel and restaurant sector, including workforce shortages, digitalization, and sustainability mandates.
Strategic Timing for Transition
The succession plan reflects DEHOGA’s focus on continuity. Schimke will enter the association in October 2025, working alongside Hartges to ensure a smooth transfer of responsibilities. Hartges, who shaped the organization for nearly 20 years as Chief Executive and more than 36 years in total, will step down at the end of February 2026. This deliberate overlap provides stability for members as the association adapts to evolving regulatory frameworks and consumer behavior.
Industry Context: Hospitality at a Crossroads
Germany’s hospitality industry is managing multiple pressures simultaneously: post-pandemic recovery, labor law reforms, and the need for investments in digital booking and operational systems. Associations like DEHOGA play a critical role in representing hoteliers and restaurateurs in negotiations with policymakers. Schimke’s mix of political credibility and business acumen is expected to strengthen the sector’s voice on:
- Labor market and apprenticeship reforms
- Energy efficiency and green hospitality standards
- Tourism promotion and international competitiveness
- Support for small and medium-sized operators
DEHOGA Leadership Voices Confidence
DEHOGA President Guido Zöllick welcomed the appointment, stating:
“Mit Jana Schimke gewinnen wir eine profilierte Nachfolgerin, die Politik und Wirtschaft gleichermaßen kennt und bestens mit den Interessen des Gastgewerbes vertraut ist. Sie bringt die Erfahrung und Kraft mit, unsere Branche in einer herausfordernden Zeit sicher in die Zukunft zu führen. Wir freuen uns, eine der wichtigsten Führungspositionen des DEHOGA Bundesverbandes sehr zügig mit einer TOP-Nachfolgerin besetzen zu können. Zugleich verabschieden wir mit Ingrid Hartges eine Persönlichkeit von außergewöhnlicher Strahlkraft und Durchsetzungskraft, deren jahrzehntelanger Einsatz für Hotellerie und Gastronomie beispiellos ist und unseren höchsten Dank verdient.“
Implications for Hospitality Businesses
For operators, the leadership change signals a strategic focus on aligning with Berlin’s political landscape while intensifying advocacy on cost structures, staff retention, and digital competitiveness. The early introduction of Schimke to state and specialty associations ensures member companies can engage directly in shaping policy priorities under the new leadership.
Looking Ahead
Schimke’s formal introduction to DEHOGA’s extended board and regional associations next week marks the start of a new chapter. With Hartges’ legacy of strong advocacy and Schimke’s fresh political leverage, the association is positioning itself to influence policy debates that will define the competitiveness of Germany’s hospitality sector over the next decade.
Learn more at www.dehoga.de.