Sonja Raiber
With extensive experience in economic development, innovation, and technology transfer, Sonja Raiber has dedicated her career to fostering regional growth and business development. As Deputy Managing Director and authorized signatory at Wirtschaftsförderungs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft Steinfurt mbH (WESt), she plays a key role in supporting businesses, developing industrial sites, and strengthening economic resilience in the region.
Before joining WESt, she worked as a Project Manager at Münsterland e.V., where she was responsible for regional innovation projects such as “Enabling Networks Münsterland.” In this role, she facilitated collaboration between small and medium-sized enterprises, research institutions, and economic stakeholders to drive technological advancement and innovation. Earlier in her career, she worked as a consultant for industry and innovation at IHK Nord Westfalen, advising businesses on technology transfer and network development.
Her professional journey also includes several years as a Business Development Manager at Forschungszentrum Jülich, where she supported the commercial exploitation of research results, bridging the gap between science and industry. Prior to that, she worked as a consultant, contributing to projects for organizations such as the European Patent Academy and the European Patent Office. Her work focused on organizing training events and managing technology transfer projects at the European level.
Sonja Raiber holds an LLM in Intellectual Property Law and Knowledge Management from Maastricht University and a Master’s degree in Politics and Management from Universität Konstanz. During her studies, she also spent a year at Copenhagen University as part of the Erasmus program in Political Science.
With her expertise in economic development, project management, and technology transfer, she continues to support businesses and institutions in fostering innovation and sustainable growth.
Christian Holterhues
Christian Holterhues has built a career at the intersection of economic development, innovation, and business support. As the Managing Director of Wirtschaftsförderungs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft Steinfurt mbH (WESt) since 2023, he plays a central role in fostering business growth, supporting companies, and driving economic resilience in the Steinfurt region. His expertise in innovation and project management makes him a key figure in shaping the future of the local business landscape.
Before stepping into his current role, he served as authorized signatory at WESt, where he was responsible for various economic development initiatives. His previous experience also includes nearly eight years as Innovation Promotion Officer at wfc Wirtschaftsförderung Kreis Coesfeld GmbH, where he supported businesses in developing and implementing innovative projects. Earlier in his career, he worked as a Technology Transfer Officer at the Chamber of Industry and Commerce Ostwestfalen in Bielefeld, helping companies leverage new technologies for business growth.
His leadership experience extends further back to his time as Head of the Office for ikn2020 – Das digitale Niedersachsen, where he was responsible for managing digital transformation initiatives across Lower Saxony. Prior to that, he worked at MFG Baden-Württemberg, gaining experience in cluster and communication management.
Christian Holterhues holds a degree in Economic Geography from the University of Osnabrück and studied at Universidad de Cantabria as part of his academic journey. Additionally, he is a certified Innovation Coach.
With his deep understanding of economic development, technology transfer, and business innovation, he continues to support companies in navigating digital transformation and securing sustainable growth in the region.
