Dr. Roman Maisch, a distinguished representative from Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany recently delivered an illuminating guest lecture at Pforzheim University. He recently retired, but is still active as honorary member for Oral History at Merck. In his lecture he reflected the situation at Merck during his tenure of more than 36 years. He shared his extensive knowledge and insights on a range of important topics, including the evolution of Merck's business model over 350 years, the importance of innovation, and the role of networks in driving innovation.
Beginning with an introduction to the Merck Group, Dr. Maisch discussed the company's long- standing history and its focus on driving innovation in a constantly changing business landscape. He highlighted the importance of a company's ability to transform its business model to stay relevant, and shared examples of how Merck has evolved its business model – focusing on the Business Sector Electronics - over the years to keep up with changing trends.
The discussion then turned to the topic of innovation, with Dr. Maisch emphasizing the need for companies to foster a culture of innovation to remain competitive in today's market. He highlighted the role of networks in driving innovation, and shared insights on how companies can build these networks effectively.
As the lecture progressed, Dr. Maisch provided a glimpse into his personal career path and experiences, providing valuable insights into the potential for success in the field of innovation. He also spoke directly to MBA students about their own career opportunities in the field, underscoring the potential for success in innovation-focused roles.
Ultimately, the lecture served as a reminder of the critical role of innovation in driving business success, and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in a constantly changing business world. By sharing his personal experiences and expertise, Mr. Maisch provided valuable insights and inspiration to the MBA students.
Overall, Dr. Roman Maisch's guest lecture at Pforzheim University provided a thought-provoking and informative experience. The university is grateful for his valuable insights and the knowledge that he  shared with the MBA students.

Text: Sourabh Jagtap, MBA Class of 2024
Picture: pixabay