For the first time, a woman has risen to the top position in the annual ranking of the most influential leaders among Germany's DAX-listed companies. Bettina Orlopp, CEO of Commerzbank, leads the recently published Handelsblatt CEO Impact Index 2025, surpassing her male counterparts from major German corporations.

The CEO Impact Index, compiled by the analysis firm Media Tenor, evaluates the performance and influence of the 40 chief executives of DAX companies. The assessment considers a range of factors, including financial performance, commitment to sustainability, employer branding, media presence, and public image. Executives can earn up to 100 points in each of seven distinct categories, offering a comprehensive view of their impact on the business world and society at large.

Commerzbank's Leadership Recognized

Bettina Orlopp's leadership has been credited with elevating Commerzbank's position across multiple dimensions. The study highlights her strong visibility in the media, underlining the importance of effective communication for modern CEOs. In addition, Orlopp's tenure has reportedly contributed to improved financial performance, not solely driven by market speculation or takeover rumors, but through operational progress and strategic clarity.

The report notes that Commerzbank's focus on sustainability and responsible business practices has become a hallmark of Orlopp's leadership. The company's approach to integrating sustainability into its core operations is reflected in its annual reports and public statements, marking a shift toward responsible corporate governance.

Women in Executive Roles Gain Prominence

Media Tenor's analysis found that women in senior roles at Commerzbank are increasingly becoming integral to the company's public profile, rather than being an exception. This shift in perception is seen as a significant step forward for gender representation in the upper echelons of Germany's financial sector.

Orlopp achieved a score of 310 points, the highest in this year's rankings. She overtook Christian Klein, CEO of software giant SAP, who held the top position in the previous year. Armin Papperger of Rheinmetall, Christian Sewing of Deutsche Bank, and Oliver Zipse of BMW complete the top five positions in the 2025 index.

Improved Reputation and Employee Satisfaction

The report also considered feedback from the employer rating platform kununu, where Commerzbank scored 4.1 out of 5 points, significantly above the industry average and ahead of key competitors. The study revealed that 89 percent of Commerzbank employees would recommend the company to others, a notable lead over Deutsche Bank, where only 68 percent of employees expressed similar sentiment.

Comparisons with previous Commerzbank leadership reflect a marked improvement in public perception. Under former CEO Martin Zielke, the bank faced significant internal challenges and media coverage was more negative. In contrast, Orlopp's tenure has been associated with increased positivity and reduced negative reporting.

Outlook for DAX Leadership

The CEO Impact Index underscores a growing recognition of female leadership within the German corporate sector. Orlopp's achievement is seen as a milestone for diversity and inclusion, highlighting the evolving landscape of executive leadership in Germany. The study suggests that proactive strategies in communication, sustainability, and human resources contribute significantly to the positive perception and influence of corporate leaders.

The findings from the CEO Impact Index may signal a broader shift in the DAX companies, encouraging greater diversity and a focus on responsible business practices as key criteria for effective leadership in the years ahead.