Auftraggeberin

Auftraggeberin is the feminine form of Auftraggeber, a term used in German-speaking business and law to designate the party that issues an assignment and finances or otherwise authorizes work to be carried out by another party. The concept is common in contract practice, procurement, and project management, where one party commissions a service or task from another.

Originating from Auftrag (commission, assignment) and -geber (giver), the gendered form serves to specify that the client is a woman. In many formal contexts the masculine form Auftraggeber is used generically, but Auftraggeberin appears when the client is female.

In contract practice the Auftraggeberin is the client or principal who orders services or work from an Auftragnehmer (contractor or service provider). The Auftraggeberin typically defines the scope, objectives, deadlines, quality requirements, and budget; provides the necessary information and access; reviews progress and accepts or rejects deliverables; and pays the agreed compensation.

Obligations of the Auftraggeberin include timely instructions, cooperation and, where appropriate, providing data or materials; ensuring compliance with applicable law and contract terms; and maintaining confidentiality where needed. The relationship is governed by a contract (Dienstvertrag, Werkvertrag, or Auftrag) that assigns duties to the Auftragnehmer and stipulates remedies for non-performance.

Usage: The term appears in procurement, consulting, architecture, IT, construction and project management. While often used in legal or formal documents, everyday language may use Kunde or Auftraggeber inclusively, with Auftraggeberin used when the client is female.

See also: Auftrag, Auftragnehmer, Beauftragter, Beauftragung, Werkvertrag, Dienstvertrag.