Matthias Sturm became Head of Communications RCV, Corporate Affairs, at our Regional Centre, Vienna (RCV), and found the values - and the challenge - he was looking for.

When I was looking for a new professional challenge, two things were important to me. First, I wanted to join a company that offered meaningful products or services and met high ethical standards. Secondly, I wanted to work with and in Central and Eastern Europe. The post that Boehringer Ingelheim offered met my needs perfectly.

Regional work on a global agenda

My job is to lead and align the Communications activities and teams in the countries that are supported from RCV, and to build a strong relationship with the Corporate Division. This includes developing and executing an effective internal communications strategy aligned with our global Communications agenda, to ensure that everyone is actively engaged with our strategy, goals, and values. Externally we define and execute strategic, campaign-driven communication activities to maximize product awareness and to manage the brand and reputation of Boehringer Ingelheim.

As Head of Communications, I lead the RCV communications team, ensuring high performance and motivation through coaching, training, and regular constructive feedback. I also act as a sparring partner and advisor to the Management Team as they engage internally and externally with stakeholders.

A time of transformation

Right now, Communications is undergoing a transformation, being connected to Corporate Affairs on a global and local level. This means both added tasks and responsibilities and increased importance within the company. Personally, I am really excited to be taking on leadership of Corporate Brand Management in RCV and working closely with the new Public and Governmental Affairs function.

Looking ahead, looking outside

My focus is on implementing our new structure in RCV - growing my team and developing our new functions. We also need to deal with external crises that affect the company: the COVID-19 pandemic, the energy crisis in Europe, and the war in Ukraine. And we will be supporting the construction of a new biopharmaceutical production site in Lower Austria. I seem to be fully booked for the next few years…

Vision, values, purpose

Boehringer Ingelheim is a family-owned company and that really makes a difference. What stands out is the fact that vision and values are lived in this company. The management really puts the focus on longterm performance instead of short-term profits. And colleagues know why they go to work every day. Helping to improve the health of both humans and animals is a powerful motivation – and having a purpose is important for the development of the whole organization.

What’s the best thing about working for Boehringer Ingelheim?

It’s never boring!