Reinhard Göhner

Dr. Reinhard Göhner joined Rud Pedersen Public Affairs as a Senior Adviser in 2024, bringing with him over four decades of experience in politics, law, and business. With a career that spans leading roles in both government and industry, Dr. Göhner is recognized as one of Germany's foremost experts in labor law, regulatory affairs, and economic policy. His strong network within the CDU and across Germany's political landscape further enhances his strategic value to clients.

From 1996 to 2016, Dr. Göhner served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Bundesvereinigung der Deutschen Arbeitgeberverbände (BDA), the Confederation of German Employers' Associations, where he played a key role in shaping Germany’s labor and economic policy. His extensive legal background, including his work as a practicing lawyer and his expertise as a specialist in labor law, has made him a trusted advisor in complex regulatory environments.

Prior to his time at the BDA, Dr. Göhner held several influential political positions. From 1990 to 1994, he served as Parliamentary State Secretary in both the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Federal Ministry of Economics. In these roles, he was responsible for crucial legislative developments and had a direct influence on national and European legal frameworks.

As a long-standing member of the German Bundestag (1983–2007) for the CDU, Dr. Göhner chaired the Committee on Environment, Nature Conservation, and Nuclear Safety, gaining significant insight into environmental policy and sustainability – areas increasingly critical to today’s corporate landscape. His deep connections within the CDU and extensive experience in balancing the interests of business and government have made him a leading figure in public affairs and advocacy.

Dr. Göhner currently holds multiple advisory and supervisory board positions, including as a member of the National Regulatory Control Council (since 2022) and the administrative board of ZDF (since 2012), one of Germany’s largest public broadcasters. His current role at Rud Pedersen sees him advising on complex political and regulatory challenges, supporting clients across industries with tailored solutions that align business goals with public affairs strategies.

With his vast experience in government, industry, and law, and his well-established CDU ties, Dr. Göhner is a valuable asset to Rud Pedersen’s clients, helping them navigate Germany’s and Europe’s complex political and regulatory landscapes to achieve sustainable, long-term success.