Our history

Our Origins

The ideas and values that have shaped Dr. Konrad Westrick’s professional journey are deeply rooted in the legacy of his father—a prominent figure in post-war German industry. Active in the aluminum, coal, and steel sectors, his father played a pivotal role in Germany’s economic and political reconstruction.

His public career began in 1951, when German Chancellor Konrad Adenauer appointed him Secretary of State for Economic Affairs. He later served as Germany’s representative to the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), the first European institution and forerunner of today’s European Union.

As a trusted advisor to Chancellor Ludwig Erhard and later as Minister and Head of the Federal Chancellery, he played a key role in coordinating governmental activities. He was widely respected for his capacity to listen, his balanced judgment, and his ability to manage the complex economic, social, and political demands of the time with diplomacy and foresight.

A man of broad intellectual depth and a committed European, he was known for his integrity, creativity, and sense of duty. Fluent in multiple languages and refined in both manner and thought, he remained above partisan interests and dedicated his career to serving his country. He lived with admirable vitality until the age of 97, passing away peacefully at his home in Bonn.