Why did you decide to pursue a career in communications consulting?
I am a generalist and love the versatility. There are few careers that are as varied as that of a communications consultant at the intersection of politics, economy and society. We work on different projects simultaneously and serve companies from different industries with entirely new communication needs. In addition, there is always interaction with different people (continually with new clients, continually in new internal team configurations) and a mix of strategic and operational work that I find very exciting.
What has been your most exciting project so far?
Every project is different and exciting in its own way. Some are time-critical, others are especially sensitive or have great financial importance. But they all offer the possibility to work close to the client’s management. Even after four years, the learning curve is still rising constantly and every new project continuously brings new challenges. Therefore, it remains exciting.
You worked in the London office for a couple months. What did you take away from your time there?
Apart from what one generally takes away from living abroad, I certainly carry a better understanding of our Anglo-Saxon clients and a closer relationship with my London colleagues in my back pocket. This facilitates collaboration between offices. This is why I also find the annual CNC summit so important, as all of the consultants from the international locations are brought together to get to know each other better and exchange ideas. The strong feeling of togetherness and the enjoyment of working together are certainly CNC’s key strengths.
In addition to your work as a consultant, you are currently writing your dissertation on corporate communications in family business. How do you combine academic work with the dynamic and demanding everyday work of a consultant?
The project is challenging, but feasible. For me, it’s helpful that I have chosen a practical topic that I know well from consulting. Furthermore, CNC arranged flexible working hours for me: in the first year of the promotion, I had a 4-day week and to complete the thesis, I will take a short sabbatical.
