Management of Vienna's Hotel Sacher passed to Elisabeth Gürtler in 1990 following the death of her ex-husband, Peter Gürtler. She assumed control of the operations with 500 employees under her supervision, acting on behalf of their two children who were minors at the time. This transition established her role as a prominent figure in the Austrian hospitality sector.
Educational Foundation
Born in Vienna in 1950, Gürtler completed her secondary education at a local Catholic gymnasium, where she passed her Matura examinations in 1968. She subsequently enrolled at the Vienna University of Economics and Business. By 1972, she had successfully completed her degree, earning a Diploma of Business Administration.
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Beyond her private business interests, Gürtler engaged in public-facing administrative roles. Between 1995 and 2000, she served as the Vice-President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber. Later, from 2001 to 2007, she chaired the Vienna Opera Ball. During her tenure in 2005, she implemented a smoking ban for the event, marking a departure from historical practice.
Directorships and Recognition
In 2007, Gürtler was appointed as the first female director of the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Her contributions to public and commercial life have been formally acknowledged through several awards, including the Great Silver Medal of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria and the Decoration of Honour in Gold for Services to the State of Vienna.
Personal Life
Gürtler has two children, Georg and Alexandra. Her daughter, Alexandra Winkler, is a co-owner of the Hotel Sacher. Gürtler was married to the actor Helmuth Lohner; the couple lived together for 19 years prior to their marriage in December 2011. Helmuth Lohner died on 23 June 2015.
Fast facts
- Born: 1950, Vienna, Austria
- Education: Vienna University of Economics and Business
- Managed Hotel Sacher: From 1990
- Vice-President of Austrian Federal Economic Chamber: 1995-2000
- Vienna Opera Ball Chairperson: 2001-2007
- Director of Spanish Riding School: Appointed 2007
- First female director: Spanish Riding School
- Awards: Great Silver Medal of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria
Questions readers ask
What is Elisabeth Gürtler's professional background?
She is an entrepreneur and businessperson who holds a Diploma of Business Administration.
What specific management role did she hold at the Spanish Riding School?
She served as the director of the Spanish Riding School, becoming the first woman to hold that position in 2007.
Achievements
- Great Silver Medal of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria
- Holdings: Hotel Sacher Vienna
- Educated at Vienna University of Economics and Business
