Billionaire Profile
Christine Knauf
Global Rank
#2175

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Christine Knauf

CEO, Knauf Gips KG
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.7B
As of December 2025
Age
70
Source
Building materials
Industry
manufacturing
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Christine Knauf, at 70 years old, is an heir to the Knauf Group, a leading global building materials and construction systems company. The source of her wealth stems from this family-owned business specializing in building materials. Her career and the family's history in the industry have allowed them to be at the forefront of building material innovation. Her estimated net worth is $1.7 billion.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Christine Knauf is an heir to the Knauf family, which founded the Knauf Group. The company was established in 1932 by brothers Alfons and Karl Knauf in Iphofen, Germany. The company's original gypsum factory is still the company's production nucleus.

Rise to Success

The Knauf Group is a multinational, family-owned company and a leading producer of building materials and construction systems. The company operates more than 300 production sites and sales organizations in over 90 countries. The group achieved sales of EUR 15.4 billion in 2022 and employs around 41,500 people. The Knauf Group is known for its drywall gypsum boards.

Key Business Strategies

Knauf's success is attributed to innovation, quality, and sustainability. The company offers a comprehensive product range, which spans from drywall systems to plaster and ceiling solutions and innovative insulation materials. Knauf has expanded through acquisitions, including USG Corporation in 2019. The company continues to invest in the construction and modernization of its production facilities.

Philanthropy

Specific philanthropy amounts are not readily available in the search results. The company focuses on sustainability efforts and the circular economy.

Career Milestones

1932

Knauf Group Founded

Alfons and Karl Knauf secured mining rights and established the company.

1958

Innovation in Building Materials

The company began producing new types of gypsum boards.

2019

Acquisition of USG Corporation

Knauf expanded its presence in the North American market.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Environmental

Sustainability Initiatives

Information unavailable

Focus on sustainable products and the circular economy.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Information unavailable."

Leadership Principles

Menschlichkeit, Partnership, Commitment, and Entrepreneurship

Guiding principles of the Knauf Group and the heart of their success.

Controversies & Challenges

2023

Ukraine added German Knauf to list of war sponsors

Ukraine listed Knauf as an International Sponsor of War for promoting mobilization in Russia by sending its employees to the war against Ukraine. Knauf is still operating across 14 sites in Russia.