With the goal of recognizing entrepreneurs for their achievements, EY once again searched for the most passionate and innovative entrepreneurs in the country. 20 owner-managed medium-sized companies reached the finals. An independent jury selected winners of the “EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2023” title in the categories “Family Business,” “Innovation,” “Sustainability,” and “Young Companies.” There was also an honorary award for exceptional entrepreneurial and social commitment as well as a public choice award.
In the “Young Companies” category, jury members recognized Hanno Renner, CEO and co-founder of Personio, and Jonas Rieke, COO of the Munich-based company. On LinkedIn, Renner writes about the honor:
“Jonas and I were certainly honored to be selected by EY from an inspiring group of finalists for the ‘Entrepreneur Of The Year Award,’ but this award is really not about us. It reflects the hard work of Personio’s incredible team, which consists of more than 1,800 people who pour their heart and soul into what they do. This recognition is a gentle nudge for all of us to continue innovating and to focus on serving and supporting our over 10,000 customers every day.”
“Entrepreneur Of The Year”: The other award winners
In addition to Personio, energy storage and energy management producer Fenecon from Deggendorf won both the “Sustainability” category and the public choice award. Travel publishing group MairDumont from Ostfildern claimed the “Family Business” category. The honorary award for exceptional entrepreneurial and social commitment went to the Würth Group from Künzelsau. Medical device manufacturer Bentley InnoMed from Hechingen received the award in the “Innovation” category and will represent Germany in the “World Entrepreneur Of The Year” selection.
Henrik Ahlers, Chairman of the Management Board at EY, says:
“We are living in economically turbulent times, and entrepreneurs feel the numerous challenges to their companies, products, and employees every day. In this often unclear situation, outstanding entrepreneurs maintain their overview. They seize opportunities where others hold back – perhaps more strongly than ever right now. This year’s award winners have demonstrated these qualities.”
