Today, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is more important than ever for companies from all industries.  After having covered the foundational inputs on CSR in the Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Management class and in-class case discussions with the MBA students, Prof. Jürgen Volkert invited Ms Christine Wüst, CHRO at Witzenmann Group as a guest-speaker to classroom.

Since there is no standardized approach in CSR, in particular family businesses such as the Witzenmann Group, had to come up with very individual CSR strategies, which are influenced by the companies´ mission statements.

Ms Wüst, who´s professional focus has always been on social & people management, explained that sustainability is part of Witzenmann´s DNA: "Witzenmann has 170 years innovation history. From jewelry to industry to mobility and now we are in the 3rd transformation which is decarbonized economy."

Witzenmann, which considers itself a responsible corporate group, aspires to make the world a cleaner and more reliable place. So, besides the topics of zero emissions and responsibility the so called „Social Hero“ one forms a vital part of the company´s mission. In this context, „Social Hero“ stands for the social dimension of sustainability at the Witzenmann Group.

In her lively presentation Ms Wüst elaborated about the five dimensions of „social hero“ at Witzenmann which are:  leadership & cooperation, learning & development, occupational health & safety, diversity as well as social engagement. These five dimensions that are comprising, among others, diverse learning opportunities and coporate health management, have been leading to a top ranking from Kununu which honors the best employers in Germany as well a s a gold medal from Ecovadis, the largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings.

A big THANK YOU to Ms Wüst for being our guest speaker and sharing these immensely interesting insights.

Text and pic: MBA