Values, change, growth: from student to climate pioneer
UW/H graduate Daniel Schmitz-Remberg on his mission to prepare companies for the challenges of the future and the necessary transformation in times of climate crisis
Nowadays, it is essential for companies to deal with sustainability and transformation in order to meet the growing demands from politics and society and at the same time ensure economic success. It is the mission of Daniel Schmitz-Remberg, UW/H graduate, to accompany them on this path: with his company DSR & Partners - The Climate Advisors, which he founded in 2023, he supports other companies in adapting to climate change.
Because even if they manage to achieve decarbonisation and the 1.5-degree target, they are not protected from the already noticeable effects of climate change: Daniel is convinced that the next big challenge is to enable companies to make their value chains and business models resilient to flooding, heatwaves and other extreme weather events. He works with them to develop strategies and advises them on how they can position themselves for the future.
Daniel acquired the expertise to set up and manage a company and provide customised advice at Witten/Herdecke University, where he studied economics from2000 to 2005. Even before his studies, he was fascinated by networking people. After completing his higher education entrance qualification, he did his civilian service, followed by a trainee period at a PR agency. One of his tasks there was to explain the benefits of genetic engineering to young people at the YOU youth fair - an experience that showed him how important communication at eye level and dialogue with others are. But his thirst for knowledge was not yet quenched and so he decided to study in Witten. "The selection process was challenging in a positive way and made me even more curious," says Daniel looking back.
His time at university shaped Daniel - he learnt to think creatively and stand up for his values
At the UW/H, he not only acquired specialist knowledge, but also developed skills that went far beyond the content of the courses. "In the 'Stonemasonry' course in Studium fundamentale, I learnt a basic metaphor: 'The result is already there, you just have to free it from the stone'. This has always accompanied and encouraged me and challenged my creativity in finding solutions."
During his studies, it was about more than just numbers and theories - it was about the ability to work in a team, empathy, the ability to reflect and the art of communication. UW/H's collaborative approach, in which students, staff and professors work together as equals, had a significant influence on his appointment.
One particularly formative experience during his 6th semester remains in his memory: after their stays abroad, Daniel and his fellow students sat together in a large shared flat kitchen in Witten and exchanged their experiences. These intensive conversations, characterised by questions and a deep understanding of each other, showed him what successful communication can look like. Throughout his career, he has always found the ability to really put himself in the other person's shoes to be essential - whether in negotiations, when working with teams or in strategic consulting. He has now been working in this field for 18 years, sometimes as an employee, sometimes as a freelancer and sometimes as a founder.
Daniel's favourite topic: sustainability and responsibility towards future generations
Now comes the next big step: in November 2024, Daniel Schmitz-Remberg is organising "THE SHIFT " - the first global corporate conference on climate adaptation in Berlin. For him, this conference is a return to his roots: bringing people together, shaping things, daring to try something new.
It is another example of how the mission statement of Witten/Herdecke University, which calls for active participation in shaping social, ecological and economic change, has shaped his life and actions.
The teaching and experience Daniel Schmitz-Remberg gained in Witten not only paved the way for a successful career in sustainability, but also anchored a deeper conviction in him: to make decisions in line with his values and to take responsibility - for companies, employees and society.
Today, after almost 20 years of professional experience, he looks back on his time in Witten with pride and gratitude. UW/H not only provided him with the necessary expertise, but also shaped him as a person. The skills and convictions that Daniel acquired in Witten will continue to guide him - in his work, his decisions and his responsibility for the world of tomorrow.
