Michael Sebastian Beyer

Did you gain any professional experience or complete any vocational training before starting your degree?

Before embarking on the part-time Master’s programme, I had already completed a dual degree in Business Administration/Industry at Berliner Wasserbetriebe through the HWR Berlin.

What made you choose the Business Informatics programme at HWR Berlin?
 

The part-time Master’s programme in Sustainability and Quality Management at HWR Berlin offers a practical link between sustainable corporate management and quality management.

What particularly convinced me was:

• Interdisciplinarity: The programme combines economic, legal and environmental content.
• Strong practical focus: Through case studies, projects and close links with industry, I was able to apply what I had learnt directly.
• Focus on sustainability: My personal and professional interest in sustainable transformation was specifically deepened.

With its renowned programme and strong network, the HWR Berlin offers an ideal platform for this.

Which experience at HWR Berlin do you remember most, and why?

A particular highlight was the field trip to Salzburg to visit ADA Cosmetics and BWT. This trip showed me how companies integrate sustainability into their business models in concrete terms. At ADA Cosmetics, I was impressed by the switch to refillable dispenser solutions to reduce plastic waste. The discussion with those in charge highlighted how sustainability is used as a competitive advantage. At BWT, I was fascinated by the vision of sustainable water management, particularly the focus on water treatment and plastic avoidance. This excursion was a highlight as it highlighted the practical relevance of our studies and provided exciting insights into sustainable corporate strategies.

What do you particularly value about your current role?

I value the variety of my tasks, the responsibility involved in managing complex projects, and the creative freedom in my work. What is particularly exciting is:

• Working on large-scale projects with many stakeholders and diverse requirements.
• The combination of commercial management and procurement law, which allows me to act strategically and in compliance with the law.

What are your next career steps?

After completing my Master’s degree in Sustainability and Quality Management, I would like to find a role where I can combine my experience in the commercial management of large-scale construction projects with my knowledge of sustainability management. I am particularly interested in working in the areas of sustainability strategy and ESG management to support companies in implementing sustainability strategies. I am also drawn to the integration of sustainability aspects into procurement and supply chain management, particularly given my experience in public procurement law. Furthermore, I am aiming for a role in transformation management, where I can support companies in implementing sustainability measures whilst combining sustainability, compliance and economic efficiency.

Would you recommend studying at HWR Berlin?

Yes, I would recommend the part-time Master’s programme in Sustainability and Quality Management at HWR Berlin, particularly for anyone wishing to work in a practical capacity with sustainability, ESG and quality processes.

What advice would you give to students in your field today?

My advice to today’s students:

1. Seek practical relevance: Use projects and business contacts to familiarise yourself with real-world challenges.
2. Build your network: Exchanging ideas with fellow students and lecturers from various sectors is invaluable.
3. Think holistically: Sustainability encompasses economic, social and regulatory aspects – keywords such as CSRD, materiality analysis and stakeholder dialogue are becoming increasingly important.
4. Stay open-minded, set priorities: Explore different topics such as ESG reporting, sustainable procurement or transformation.
5. Stay on the ball: Sustainability is a dynamic field – keep up to date even after your studies, through specialist literature, conferences or networks.

In short: Make the most of the practical components, network and stay curious about developments in the field of sustainability!