Former Secretary General of the German Advisory Council on Global Change, Author of “Rethinking Our World: An Invitation to Rescue Our Future & Ranked as 1 of the 100 Most Influential German Economists by The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung
Maja Göpel’s Biography:
Maja Göpel is one of Germany’s leading sustainability scientists, political economists and transformation experts, widely recognised for her work on rethinking economic systems to create a more sustainable and equitable future. Best known for challenging conventional approaches to growth and advocating for systemic change, she has become an influential voice in debates around climate action, economic reform and social resilience. Through her research, public engagement and advisory work, Maja has helped shape discussions among policymakers, business leaders and civil society organisations seeking practical pathways towards sustainable development. Her ability to connect complex global challenges with actionable solutions makes her a highly sought-after keynote speaker for conferences, leadership forums and corporate events.
Maja’s career has been defined by a commitment to understanding the relationship between economic systems, environmental sustainability and social wellbeing. She served as Director of Future Justice for the World Future Council, where she worked on long-term policy solutions addressing global challenges. Her expertise and leadership led to her appointment as Secretary General of the German Advisory Council on Global Change, one of Germany’s most influential scientific advisory bodies. She later became an Honorary Professor at Leuphana University of Lüneburg, reflecting her contributions to academia and public policy. In addition, she served as Research Director for the New Institute Think Tank and was appointed Visiting Professor at the College of Europe in Bruges, further strengthening her reputation as a leading thinker on sustainability and transformation.
Her influence has been recognised through numerous prestigious awards and honours. Maja won both the Environmental and Sustainability Prize of the Federal German Working Group and the Adam Smith Prize, recognising the impact of her work on sustainable economic thinking. She was subsequently awarded the Erich Fromm Prize, the Theodor Heuss Prize, the Science Communication Medal of the Max Planck Society and the WeQ Award. She was also ranked among the 100 Most Influential German Economists by The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. Beyond academia and policy circles, she is a respected public commentator whose insights regularly contribute to national and international discussions on the future of society, the economy and environmental responsibility.
Why Hire Maja Göpel?
Maja’s authority is further reinforced through her membership of influential global organisations, including the Club of Rome, the World Future Council and the Balaton Group. She also served as a member of the Bioeconomy Council of the German Federal Government and was nominated by Alliance 90/The Greens as a delegate to the Federal Convention responsible for electing the President of Germany. As the author of the acclaimed book ‘Rethinking Our World: An Invitation to Rescue Our Future’, she has demonstrated a unique ability to translate complex scientific and economic concepts into compelling narratives. Combining academic rigour, policy expertise and engaging communication, Maja delivers keynote presentations that inspire audiences to think differently, embrace innovation and take meaningful action, making her an exceptional choice for organisations seeking a speaker who can address the defining challenges and opportunities of the modern world.
Maja Göpel’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Maja Göpel’s remarkable career:
- 2023 – Author of ‘Rethinking Our World: An Invitation to Rescue Our Future’
- 2022 – Nominated by the Alliance 90/The Greens as the delegate to the Federal Convention for the purpose of electing the President of Germany
- 2021 – Ranked as one of the 100 Most Influential German Economists by The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung
- 2021 – Awarded the Erich Fromm Prize, the Theodor Heuss Prize, the Science Communication Medal of the Max Planck Society & the WeQ Award
- 2021 – Visiting Professor at the College of Europe in Bruges
- 2020 – Research Director for the New Institute Think Tank
- 2019 – Winner of the Environmental & Sustainability Prize of the Federal German Working Group & the Adam Smith Prize
- 2019 – Appointed as an Honorary Professor at Leuphana University of Lüneburg
- 2017 – Secretary General of the German Advisory Council on Global Change
- 2006 – Director of Future Justice for the World Future Council
- Member of the Club of Rome, the World Future Council & the Balaton Group
- Former Member of the Bioeconomy Council of the German Federal Government
Videos
Maja Göpel’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Maja Göpel is an internationally respected sustainability scientist and transformation expert who inspires audiences with fresh perspectives on the future of business, society and the global economy. Combining academic insight, policy experience and engaging storytelling, she delivers thought-provoking keynote presentations that equip leaders with practical strategies for navigating change and building a more sustainable future.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Maja Göpel’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Which Prosperous Future? Confronting Narratives of Growth
- Why Innovation Beyond NOW Has to be Systematic
- Sustainability Without Reparation
- The Power of System Thinking in Shaping a Sustainable World
How Much Does Maja Göpel Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Maja Göpel?
Maja Göpel’s speaking fees typically reflect her exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.