Talk us through an average day in your role.
As executive director of strategy and innovation at Riedel, my typical day is a blend of high-level strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement, and tactical decision-making. I lead a team of product managers, and a strategic group focused on key initiatives like M&As. My days are never quite the same, but they usually start with a quick team check-in to align on the most important daily priorities. From there, my afternoons focus more on innovation roadmaps and management alignment, ensuring strategic progress across live events, sports, and entertainment.
How did you get started in the media industry?
My career in the industry began while studying media engineering. At that time, I was also working for two different TV stations, balancing studies with gaining real, hands-on experience in broadcasting.
For me, technology was always the key driver, and I was fascinated by how everything came together – how the tech behind live broadcasting made it all possible. But what really hooked me was the combination of technology and strict deadlines. In live TV, there’s no room for error – you have to think fast, solve problems under pressure, and make things work exactly when they need to. That kind of high-energy, problem-solving environment has helped shape how I approach challenges today.
What training did you have before entering the industry?
A lifelong technology enthusiast, I discovered a passion for computing early on, inspired by the first 3/86 computers and Commodore systems at my family business’ office. After studying at the University of Applied Sciences in Cologne and working for several German television stations, I joined Riedel in 2009.
Why do you enjoy working in the industry?
I enjoy working in the media industry because it sits at the intersection of technology, creativity, and real-time problem-solving. From the very beginning, I was drawn to the technical side of broadcasting. What really excites me is the way in which technology enables powerful storytelling and seamless execution under pressure.
There’s something incredibly rewarding about working in an environment where every second counts – whether it’s a live broadcast, a major product launch, or a high-profile live event. Live events, in particular, bring a unique energy. The combination of cutting-edge technology, precise coordination, and the need for flawless execution in front of a live audience creates an unmatched adrenaline rush. There’s no second take, no do-over – you have to rely on preparation, teamwork, and quick thinking to deliver a good experience.
What piece of advice would you offer someone looking to explore a role similar to yours?
Always start with hands-on experience – that’s what helped me the most in reaching an executive position. Working directly in the field gave me the experience, practical knowledge, and “street credibility” required to lead teams effectively. But just as important is the ability to step back and see the bigger picture – understanding not just how things work, but how they fit into the broader strategy. Balancing both is key to driving real innovation and leadership in the media industry.
