1. What I like about my job
A whole bunch of things! Above all, that I can contribute to the important topic of health, the fact that every day is different, that I'm constantly exchanging ideas with other people, and that I learn something new all the time.
2. What sometimes frustrates me
When things take too long. That is, when procedural or technical obstacles drag out decision-making work. I like fast, uncomplicated processes.
3. My secret dream job
I have been an active and enthusiastic diver for many years. The underwater world totally fascinates me. Marine biologist or underwater photographer… Oh yes, now that I think about it, that would be something…
4. Best strategy to survive a really bad day at the office
Pick up the phone and call a really nice colleague. Often a different way of looking at things helps – and soon enough, things aren't half as bad.
5. How I get into the flow
When I can have an exchange with others, when we develop ideas together and I feel that we're making progress, moving something forward.
6. Biggest success so far
I've always remained true to myself – no matter what role I've had. Authenticity is extremely important to me.
7. Biggest defeat
A concert performance, about 20 years ago. I was playing the flute – and I just lost my breath in the middle of it. I was incredibly embarrassed. The sound was gone and it stayed gone. And I'm not usually the quiet type.
8. Worst buzzword
Digitization. Apparently, you can use it to justify anything.
9. Best reward after a hard week at work
Meeting friends and spending a fun evening together. I appreciate that even more these days. I very much hope that meeting in larger groups will be possible again in autumn at the latest, with no more worries.
10. Home office or in-house
In-house, of course: I like face-to-face conversations. And a bonus feature of the office life: you can have lunch at the canteen. I would call that a true "competitive edge".
11. Most important traits a colleague/business partner must have
Honesty, openness, lucidity – and empathy.
12. My creative hack
Silence. A blank piece of paper. And colored pencils.
13. First website I check in the morning
First come the push notifications from Spiegel, SZ and ORF. When I’m through with those, I usually switch to LinkedIn.
14. Favorite digital tool
iPhone – always have it on me. Well, almost always.
15. The book or series from which I have learned the most for my (work) life
The Discovery of Slowness by Sten Nadolny. The novel shows how important thoughtfulness and careful interaction with oneself and others are. And how strong supposedly weak people can be.
16. A series, book or podcast I can recommend to anyone
I thought the Netflix series Lupin was great – I can’t wait for the sequel. And another recommendation: I always find Katja Berlin's “Torte der Wahrheit” on Die Zeit very well-made.
17. Most prominent follower on a social media channel?
Frank Thelen probably has the most followers of his own. But my network mainly consists of successful women in business and colleagues in the financial services industry.
17 and a half: What always...
… fascinates me: People who tell stories, especially the ones that convey their message in just a few words and resonate with others.
