Berlin, March 19 – Matthias Hundt has been appointed Berlin’s new Chief Digital Officer. He will also serve as State Secretary for Digitalization and Administrative Modernization, succeeding Martina Klement, who has transitioned to the cabinet in Potsdam as Minister of Economic Affairs. This appointment was announced by the Senate Chancellery.
New Leadership for Digital Transformation in Berlin
Berlin’s Governing Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) officially appointed Hundt yesterday morning. Hundt, 57, was born in Dresden. After completing an apprenticeship as a toolmaker, he pursued studies in business administration. He has served as the managing director of Sachsen Digital Solutions GmbH since 2019, and prior to that, he was an authorized signatory and a member of the executive board at Dresden Information GmbH.
Focus on Efficiency and Citizen Engagement
Mayor Wegner emphasized Hundt’s role: “Matthias Hundt will drive the digital transformation of Berlin’s public administration, focusing on e-government as well as IT security and the protection of critical infrastructure.” Hundt expressed his belief that Berlin possesses significant potential to lead in the digital transformation of public administration. “We will now vigorously leverage this potential,” he stated, outlining his goal to modernize the administration and enhance Berlin’s speed, efficiency, and digital capabilities.
Continuity and Evolution of Administrative Reform
Hundt’s predecessor, Martina Klement, held the office since 2023. As a lawyer, she played a crucial role in advancing administrative reform in Berlin. The overarching goal of these reforms is to achieve greater efficiency and improve citizen-friendliness within the administration. The House of Representatives has already passed a State Organization Act and amendments to the Berlin Constitution to facilitate these changes. However, the full implementation of the reform project is still ongoing.
Matthias Hundt’s Background and Vision
Matthias Hundt brings a wealth of experience from the digital sector. His tenure at Sachsen Digital Solutions GmbH and Dresden Information GmbH highlights his expertise in managing and implementing digital solutions. His appointment signals a continued commitment from the Berlin Senate to accelerate the city’s digital agenda.
The focus on e-government is particularly pertinent as Berlin seeks to streamline public services and make them more accessible to its citizens. Strengthening IT security and protecting critical infrastructure are also key priorities, reflecting the growing importance of digital resilience in modern urban environments.
Hundt’s vision for a faster, more efficient, and more digital Berlin aligns with the broader objectives of administrative modernization. This initiative aims not only to improve internal governmental processes but also to enhance the overall experience for residents and businesses interacting with the city’s administration.
The transition of leadership marks a new chapter in Berlin’s digital transformation journey. With Hundt at the helm, the city is poised to further develop its digital infrastructure and services, striving to become a leading example of digital public administration.
Source: Press release from the Berlin Senate Chancellery
