For him, Bayreuth is "the ideal place for perfect studies"

UBTaktuell: What did you study and did it prepare you for your current job?

Michael Börnicke: I studied business administration at the University of Bayreuth. In my time there was still the pre-diploma and later the degree as Diplom-Kaufmann. The studies were already very practical at the time and made it very easy for me to start my professional life at Hypo-Bank (now Unicredit). I was always able to use my knowledge from the university focus on financing and balance sheets/taxes during my professional career as Chief Financial Officer. Today, as a member of the supervisory board of a company, I also need this knowledge, which of course has to be constantly developed.

How would you describe your typical working day?

I am active as an entrepreneur, investor and supervisory board member. Today, it's called a serial entrepreneur. I look at companies, especially start-ups, and check whether an investment makes sense. Then I support the young founders in setting up and later exiting companies. There is nothing more inspiring for me than discussions about market opportunities for new products, new technological developments and the development of companies. My focus today is the food tech sector. As chairman of the supervisory board of "Greenforce Future Food AG" in Munich, I have to know and fulfil the legal duties of a supervisory board. I enjoy the great development of this company every day. Of course, I would also be happy to support a young start-up team in Bayreuth, including early stage.

Which event from your student days do you have a special memory of?

Prof. Oberender's lectures in microeconomics were always a highlight. Of course, I had special contact with the professors of my specialisations finance/banking and balance sheets/taxes, Prof. Wossidlo and Prof. Sigloch. I remember that Prof. Wossidlo called me on the eve of my diploma exam and asked me if I wanted to do my doctorate with him. I thought that was great, of course.

Please finish the following sentence: For me, Bayreuth is...

...the ideal place for perfect studies. The university offers the best conditions to be successful later on. I define success here as experiencing a fulfilled professional life. For me, my profession has always been my favourite hobby and the University of Bayreuth has provided me with the best starting conditions.

Would you like to be a student again?

Yes, immediately. A society can only develop further through research and well-founded knowledge. As an entrepreneur, you are constantly learning. In this respect, I still enrol as a guest student at universities. Unfortunately, due to my place of residence in Munich, not in Bayreuth.