My time at BCG has been a tremendous growth experience—both professionally and personally! One of the greatest assignments I worked on was the design of a future automotive plant for the year 2030 for an international OEM (original equipment manufacturer). This was not only a challenge for me but also new ground for BCG. After working on this project, I knew that becoming a leading expert in the automotive sector was my career goal.
A step along this path was a global study for innovation management that a colleague and I initiated. We conducted interviews with executives like Robert Peugeot from PSA and gained cutting-edge insights. Additional strategy projects abroad expanded my knowledge base well beyond Germany. For example, I have become familiar with other totally different business cultures, such as those of Japan and Norway. Last year, because of my growing knowledge, I was given the operational responsibility for a global OEM account.
For me, BCG is not just about working on challenging projects with interesting personalities or getting immersed in totally different cultures. It has allowed me to create my own career path, taking the breaks I needed for my family and my personal development. A few years ago, I took a sabbatical to get my Doctorate in Business Administration. When my first son was born, I took a 6-month leave to enjoy him and our new family life. Right now, I am still enjoying the flexibility BCG offers me—I work only four days a week. The fifth day I spend with my one-year-old twins—mostly on the playground!