As part of this year's Advent meeting, Lord Mayor Dennis Weilmann made Hans Dieter Pötsch an honorary citizen of the city of Wolfsburg. The city council had already approved the award in October. The award is an expression of deep appreciation for Pötsch's longstanding, responsible role as a shaper and stabilizer in difficult times - with a clear stance, foresight and a high level of personal commitment.

Appreciation for a decade at the helm

"Hans Dieter Pötsch is one of the key shapers of change and the realignment of Volkswagen and thus one of the fathers of Wolfsburg's economic and social strength. His commitment and support for the arts, sport and the community foundation are also outstanding examples of his work and creativity in Wolfsburg. It is an honor for me to be able to award Hans Dieter Pötsch honorary citizenship of our city," emphasized Lord Mayor Dennis Weilmann.

Pötsch had taken on responsibility for the city and the plant, especially in turbulent times: He has chaired the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen AG since 2015. Under his calm, honest leadership, the Group was restructured - and thus also had a lasting impact on Wolfsburg's future. The resulting investments continue to strengthen the location to this day.

Respect from the Group

Words of appreciation also came from the Volkswagen Group itself. Chairman of the Board of Management Oliver Blume says: "Our Supervisory Board Chairman Hans Dieter Pötsch is one of the pillars of the Volkswagen Group's success. He has borne responsibility in prominent roles in our company for more than 20 years. With his attitude, vision and great expertise, he has played a decisive role in shaping the development of Volkswagen - even and especially in turbulent times. It fills me with joy that he is now an honorary citizen of Wolfsburg in the same line as personalities such as Carl H. Hahn and Ferdinand Piёch. A special award that the entire Volkswagen Group can be proud of."

Daniela Cavallo, Chairwoman of the General and Group Works Councils and member of the Supervisory Board, confirms: "For many years, we have had more in common than just a job at the same company. I deeply appreciate our trusting cooperation on the Supervisory Board. I can rely on your word. Your integrity, your ability to shed light on issues with employees and shareholders in a virtually non-partisan manner and to evaluate them impartially: that is anything but a matter of course. In your ten years as Chairman of the Supervisory Board, you have always managed to maintain a high reputation on both sides. I congratulate you from the bottom of my heart."