Graduate profile

Natascha Hirt completed her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Engineering - Marketing and Sales in 2009. In this interview, she shares her experiences from her studies, the transition to the professional world and her current work in international marketing.

How did you experience your time at the Faculty?

I found my time at the faculty instructive and exciting. I found the practical phases particularly helpful, as they gave me the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge to real projects. The pre-study internship was another important step for me to gain initial experience and better assess the degree programme. In the foundation degree programme, it was initially a lot about getting to know the different subjects and feeling out the direction in which I wanted to develop. Later on in my studies, the topics became increasingly interesting and specialised, especially in the areas of marketing and communication.

Did you have a career plan after graduating?

The transition from HFU to the professional world was challenging. There were around 80 graduates in my year, but only about 5 of us found a job straight away as there were recruitment freezes in many areas. I initially started in marketing in the medical sector. However, I didn't have a clear career plan. I found it difficult to set long-term career goals, especially as a woman, because you never know exactly how private decisions, such as starting a family, can affect your career. However, it was clear to me that I wanted to do an MBA in Sales & Service Engineering at some point, and I decided to start a family sooner rather than later. So after three years, I changed jobs and eventually found my current employer. When I went on my first parental leave, I decided to start the MBA at Furtwangen University - not part-time, but as a full-time programme. For me, it was an opportunity to further my career while at the same time using the career break to further my education. It wasn't always easy, but it was a conscious decision to further my professional development during this phase of my life.

What do you do today?

I am currently in Global Marketing at ebm-papst, where I am responsible for European marketing. In this role, I look after a network of around 16 subsidiaries in various European countries. My main task is to ensure that all colleagues receive the information they need to successfully implement their marketing activities. In particular, I support them with campaigns when new products are being promoted in their countries and when they are unsure about what measures and materials are available from Germany.

Looking back, was your degree programme the right thing to do?

Yes, the subject is still a lot of fun! However, I would perhaps delve deeper into the areas of communication and body language, as I am personally fascinated by these topics. In addition to my professional work in the company, I am also self-employed on a part-time basis and run a small company where I deal with precisely these topics. I am particularly interested in teaching communication and body language as part of courses for women. I have already taught on this topic at adult education centres and in company courses. My aim is to help women to achieve a better balance between work, family and their own interests.

What advice do you have for current students?

My most important advice to students and graduates is to actively build up a network. A strong network is crucial for professional success. It is particularly important for women to network in a targeted way. Even if you work a lot from home, it helps to exchange ideas and make progress together. You should not be in competition with others, but work together as a team. This strengthens career opportunities and promotes a sense of community.