Marc Böggemann

Since completing my studies, I have been working at Alexander Thamm GmbH – a medium-sized consulting firm focused on Data & AI. In my role as Head of Business Operations, I am responsible for the areas of IT, Operations, Sales Operations, and Office Management, as well as a team of 13 employees. Additionally, as a member of the management team, I am involved in a variety of strategically important projects. These include the implementation of an integrated Financial Planning & Reporting solution using Jedox, the further development of our structure and processes, the establishment of a quality and information security management system according to ISO 9001 and ISO 27001, and the implementation and migration of central tools and systems.

As part of my undergraduate studies, I completed the bachelor’s program in Banking & Finance at the Technical University of Cologne. During this time, I acquired in-depth knowledge in the fields of financial markets, corporate finance, and banking and risk management. What particularly appealed to me was the analytical content and the close connection to entrepreneurial practice. After successfully completing my bachelor’s degree, I consciously chose to pursue a master’s degree at the School of International Business and Entrepreneurship (SIBE). The decisive factor was primarily the integrated study concept, which uniquely combines theory and practice. The opportunity to apply and develop my knowledge in parallel with academic training directly in the corporate context – in my case at T-Systems – was particularly appealing to me. In addition, there were practical-oriented courses led by experienced faculty members from renowned companies. This combination of academic depth and entrepreneurial relevance provided the ideal framework for me to further develop my business management skills. Another crucial factor was the integrated study abroad program, which not only allowed me to gain intercultural experiences but also sharpened my international perspective on economic relationships.

During my professionally integrated master’s degree at SIBE, I worked as a Junior Project Manager at T-Systems International GmbH in the area of Global Portfolio Operational Excellence. There, as a PMO, I supported the program management of a company-wide IT transformation program and was responsible, among other things, for reporting, resource planning, and coordination with international stakeholders. In parallel, I worked on the development of standardized tools and processes in the area of offer and portfolio management. A highlight was my participation in the implementation of an AI-based competitive intelligence tool for automated market and competitive analysis. These activities have greatly advanced me both professionally and personally. Not only did I develop my project management skills in a complex, international environment, but I also gained valuable insights into the challenges and success factors of digital transformation programs. Moreover, I learned how important it is to think holistically about processes and to purposefully use new technologies to improve efficiency and support decision-making.

I still benefit from the Experience Based Curriculum in more ways than one to this day. Particularly valuable for me was the close connection between theory and practice, which enabled me to apply academic concepts directly in the corporate context and to critically question them. This reflective learning in professional everyday life has significantly sharpened my strategic and entrepreneurial thinking and helped me to grasp complex connections more quickly and to act in a solution-oriented manner. Furthermore, the interdisciplinary project work and the international orientation of the curriculum have strengthened my communication and team skills – skills that are crucial in dynamic, technology-driven fields.

I recommend this type of study especially for career starters or young professionals who not only aim for an academic degree, but also want to develop their professional and personal skills in a targeted manner – ideally in an environment where they can take on responsibility and actively contribute.

My professional network plays an important role for me – both in terms of professional exchange and personal development. During my studies, I was able to build valuable connections with fellow students and faculty members, which helped me a lot, especially in reflecting on challenges and in mutual sparring. Part of these connections still exist to this day. However, since our studies ended in the middle of the Corona pandemic, some of these connections have unfortunately evolved over time. The more I appreciate the relationships that have remained. These are even closer, more trusting, and often also very professionally enriching today. There is also more frequent contact with the university itself – especially when it comes to questions about recommendations.

When I think back to my time at SIBE, I particularly remember the intensive and inspiring weeks in Berlin for personal development. The combination of in-depth content, exciting discussions, and open exchange with other students not only shaped me professionally but also personally. The in-person events as a whole were also real highlights for me – especially because of the diverse perspectives of the participants, the practical content, and the team spirit that quickly developed. Particularly memorable for me are the final presentations after the respective project work, where we could witness the progress of all the students in a tangible way. Another highlight was the Design Thinking Workshop, which was not only very exciting in terms of methodology but also fostered creative exchange. And of course the study abroad experience, which was not only intellectually enriching but also provided very interesting insights into other companies. Not least, I fondly remember the evenings around lecture times when we explored the cities together with other students and ended the day with a relaxed gathering – that was also a valuable part of the SIBE experience.

First: Take every opportunity to take on responsibility early on – even if it feels like you’re being thrown into the deep end at first. It’s in these situations that you grow the most and develop an ability to structure and approach complex issues in a solution-oriented way. Second: Actively and continuously build your network – and keep in touch. The connections you make during your studies can take you further professionally, but also in terms of human connection. Often, it’s these connections that can make the difference in crucial moments. And third – perhaps the most important thing: Find topics and tasks that truly interest you and bring you joy. When you’re passionate about something, it doesn’t feel like work either in your studies or at work – and that’s a great strength on your continued career path.