Constanze Buchheim of i-potentials criticizes inconsistent leadership culture in German SMEs in a Handelsblatt interview.
Constanze Buchheim, founder of the personnel consultancy i-potentials, warns of a relationship trap in family businesses. She said loyalty is often valued higher than performance.
The consultancy founded in 2009 now generates most of its revenue with owner-managed SMEs. Buchheim sees too much fear and a lack of consistency among managers.
The interview was published on 19 July 2026 in Berlin.