A Reflection by Iñaki Maillard, Managing Director of the Global DIY-Summit
When I think about what truly defines a great leader, it’s not just business success or years of experience—it’s the values they uphold, the culture they create, and the way they inspire others. Reinhard Wolff embodies all of this.
As Managing Director of the Global DIY-Summit, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and working with some of the most influential figures in the industry. But Reinhard stands out—not just for his accomplishments, but for his unwavering commitment to fairness, respect, and honesty. These are not just words to him; they are the foundation of everything he has built.
That is why he deserves the Global DIY-Lifetime Award.
A Leadership Philosophy Rooted in Truth and Inclusion
One of the most profound things Reinhard ever said to me was:
“Nobody has access to the truth, but if you discuss a topic with people, you have the possibility to look at it from different angles and come closer to the truth.”
This single sentence reveals the essence of his leadership style. Many leaders believe they must have all the answers, but Reinhard knows that real wisdom comes from listening—from engaging with different perspectives, questioning assumptions, and making informed decisions as a team.
This philosophy shaped the way he ran his company. He never ruled with an iron fist or imposed decisions from the top down. Instead, he fostered an inclusive, discussion-driven culture, where every voice mattered. He understood that by allowing people to contribute their insights, he could arrive at better, more sustainable solutions.
In an era where many leaders still rely on ego and authority, Reinhard’s humility and openness set him apart.
A Hard Core Wrapped in a Soft Shell
Another defining characteristic of Reinhard is the balance between his kindness and his strength. He once told me:
“People say that real tough men have a hard shell but are soft inside. With me, it’s the opposite—I am soft on the outside, helpful, friendly, respectful, and open, but I have a very, very hard core. And if you touch that, you will have a lot of problems.”
This sums up why he is such a respected leader. He is approachable, always willing to listen, and deeply supportive of those around him. But at the same time, he has an unshakable core of principles—values that he refuses to compromise on.
I’ve seen firsthand how this plays out in his leadership. He welcomes people into his world with warmth and generosity, but the moment someone disrespects the company’s culture, mistreats others, or puts self-interest above the team, Reinhard draws a firm line.
That is true leadership—being kind without being weak, being strong without being harsh.
Building a Culture That Lasts
Reinhard’s approach to leadership wasn’t just about making good decisions in the moment—it was about creating a lasting culture.
One of the things that impressed me most was the way he treated his employees. In his company, the lady at the reception is treated with the same respect as the owner. There is no hierarchy in dignity—only in responsibility.
This mindset fostered extraordinary loyalty. People didn’t just work for his company—they stayed for decades. Many employees celebrated 10, 20, even 50 years with the company. To honor them, Reinhard introduced a tradition: every five years, employees receive a gold coin—a tangible symbol of appreciation, rather than just empty words.
Even in tough financial years, this tradition was never abandoned. Why? Because for Reinhard, loyalty and commitment are priceless.
Why Reinhard’s Leadership Matters Now More Than Ever
In today’s fast-changing world, we often see businesses prioritizing short-term profits over long-term values, individual success over collective growth, and authority over collaboration. Reinhard rejects all of that.
His leadership reminds us that:
- No one has absolute knowledge, and the best solutions come from collective wisdom.
- Respect, fairness, and honesty should never be sacrificed for financial gain.
- Strength isn’t about being feared—it’s about standing firm in your values.
Reinhard’s legacy isn’t just in the company he built, but in the way he built it—through trust, inclusivity, and a deep sense of purpose.
A Lifetime Award for a Life of Impact
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from Reinhard, it’s this:
“Improve your world every day a little bit.”
That’s what he has done—not just for his company, but for the entire industry. He has set a standard for leadership that many of us can only aspire to.
This award isn’t just for what he has achieved—it’s for the values he upheld, the culture he built, and the lives he impacted.
And that’s why Reinhard Wolff truly deserves the Global DIY-Lifetime Award.