Simon Hallermeier
Study programmes: Business Informatics (BSc) at Augsburg University of Applied Sciences / Digital Transformation and Global Entrepreneurship (MSc) (opens in a new window)
Employer: Forum Media Group
Position: Young Professional
Contact: LinkedIn-profile (opens in a new window)
What made you decide to study at HNU?
The MSc in Digital Transformation & Global Entrepreneurship programme appealed to me because it stood out for its original perspectives on ‘internationality’, ‘digital value creation and transformation’, ‘digital business models’ and its blend of entrepreneurship and management consultancy.
What experiences during your degree have had a particular impact on you?
I was particularly influenced by the international study environment, the stimulating exchanges with fellow students from abroad, and my time spent studying overseas. The wide-ranging curriculum on digital transformation and digital business models also helped me realise what I’m passionate about.
What advice would you give to students on your degree programme?
- Are you unsure about what you want to do? The path through study and work isn’t linear. In my case, the path took me from a vocational training programme to a Bachelor’s in Business Informatics and then on to a Master’s in DTE.
You can experiment and try different things. Have the courage to change direction if it isn’t fulfilling for you. To do this, it’s important to reflect on yourself regularly so that you understand your own personality, strengths and weaknesses. Use these insights to filter out what’s right for you.
- Seek out experience abroad, for example through exchange programmes or summer/winter schools.
- Build up a network early on: not just after your studies, but whilst you’re studying – for example, through hackathons, international exchanges and events.
What advice would you give to all graduates looking for their first job?
During your studies, you’ve discovered what you’re passionate about and what you enjoy doing. Towards the end of my degree, I first had to reflect on where I could best apply my skills and interests, and which employers might be a good fit. Ideally, you’ll have already made contacts or taken part in projects during your studies, which will give you some initial points of contact. It’s important that you highlight your personal values through your own projects during your studies, so that you can make a convincing case.
Please describe your typical working day. What projects are you working on, and which tasks do you particularly enjoy?
My role: Young Professional on a rotational programme at FORUM MEDIA GROUP, reporting directly to the CFO/COO.
Typical tasks: acting as a liaison between management and the operational level, initiating and taking responsibility for innovation projects (e.g. for future B2B specialist information formats), supporting transformation and change within the group
Tasks I particularly enjoy: tasks that offer me a certain degree of freedom and a mix of topics: innovation projects, strategic and systemic thinking, ranging from lean product development to innovation and venture architecture, and the operationalisation of AI
My challenges: Change is clearly necessary, but is held back by inertia and complacency (Gray Rhino)
My dilemma: Being a generalist in a world of specialists, whilst still creating added value (based on the book “Range” by David Epstein).
Which aspects of your studies at HNU have proved valuable in your professional life?
- Business model thinking (Business Model Canvas, Value Proposition Design) – absolutely brilliant and something I use almost every day
- Frameworks of all kinds (e.g. for digital transformation) – very useful as a guide and blueprint
- An international mindset and intercultural competence gained through the study abroad programmes
- Facilitation and presentation skills from seminars and group work
How would you finish the following sentence?
HNU… “has given me the opportunity to think outside the box (international outlook and mindset, digital transformation) and has always encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone.”
