At the end of last year, students and alumni on TalTech’s School of Business and Governance's Entrepreneurial Management MBA programme travelled to Munich to gain first-hand insights into how the future of business is being shaped from world-class companies and leading academics.The three-day programme offered unique opportunities for strategic learning and behind-the-scenes access, as well as inspiring discussions on sustainability, global value chains, innovation and leadership.
BMW: Sustainability and Innovation in Manufacturing
The study trip began with a visit to the BMW Group, where participants explored the company’s approach to designing a seamless customer journey and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. A particular highlight was a meeting with BMW’s Head of Sustainability, Per Wieki, who presented the company’s comprehensive ESG strategy, addressing environmental responsibility, social impact and a long-term cultural mindset. The session also covered how BMW communicates its sustainability strategy to consistently strengthen its brand reputation alongside its human-centric approach.
“I was impressed by how employees are continuously upskilled in line with technological developments, enabling them to grow into new roles rather than become replaceable,” said alumna Olena Volkova. She also highlighted BMW’s strong engagement with local communities and its development of support programmes tailored to the real needs and cultural contexts of each region. For example, she mentioned BMW-funded safe childcare initiatives in Mexico that benefit not only employees, but also families in the surrounding neighbourhoods.
Adidas: Creativity and Strategic Brand Transformation
At Adidas headquarters, participants gained an in-depth overview of how one of the world's most iconic brands drives innovation and strategic transformation. They learned how Adidas has reshaped its $17.4 billion brand by shifting the focus of its leadership and granting greater autonomy to local markets. Brand Director Phillip Waller and Director of Brand Development Projects Nayla Gärtner led an engaging workshop, encouraging participants to think outside the box and come up with bold ideas to “amplify” the brand.
MBA alumna Kätlin Udde commented on the experience: “It was an exceptional opportunity to do this with them, and I am genuinely grateful for it.” The visit was also personally meaningful for many participants, offering an immersive experience of a work environment where sport and creativity are integral to everyday life.
Celonis: Process Mining and Operational Excellence
The programme continued at Celonis, where Mindaugas Kondrotas, Head of Partnerships, introduced the concept of process mining and its potential to radically improve the operational efficiency of global organisations. “While BMW and Adidas broadened my perspective on sustainability, operational efficiency, global brand building and strategic transformation, I found the most practical insights came from Celonis and its in-depth analysis of process mining. This truly opened my eyes to its potential for dramatically improving operational efficiency,” said alumna Udde.
Munich Business School and Professor Michael Rüdiger
The final destination of the study trip was the Munich Business School, where Professor Michael Rüdiger gave a thought-provoking lecture on global supply chain management and the challenges of doing business internationally. His candid perspective on resilience and geopolitical complexity was particularly memorable. “It was a real ‘aha moment’ — the lecturer was bold, blunt and honest, which I found incredibly inspiring. I truly appreciated that,' said alumnus Kirill Neitov, who also took part in the study trip.
As well as providing new knowledge, enriching experiences and inspiring ideas, the study trip fostered meaningful discussions, strengthened connections among participants and provided renewed motivation for all those committed to growing as global leaders.