Do you have a green lifestyle?

Yes, I think so. We regularly separate garbage, which is unusual here. In Europe we do it all the time.

My son and I have also bought two bicycles for cycling in Shanghai. I have to admit that sometimes the traffic is quite dangerous, but it is a lot of fun.

What is your impression of Chinese businessmen? And how do you break the ice when you first meet them?

Don't talk about business. I'm much more interested in the person, because I believe being interested in the person and his family creates a certain intimacy.

You cannot always expect that the other person will make the first step. So you should share something about your family, experiences, and private life.

I think it's not only in China, it's in general. When you meet someone, you should not just immediately talk about business or the next job, or the next order.

You have to build up a relationship. And this is only possible if you share personal thoughts.

CV

Age: 46

Education: MBA from University of Zurich in 1996

Career:

2013-present: CEO of Schindler Group China

2010-2013: Head of Schindler Europe North

2007-2009: CEO of Schindler Aufzüge AG, Switzerland

2003-2006: CFO of Schindler Deutschland GmbH, Germany

2000-2002: COO and CFO of the C. Haushahn Group, Germany

1994-1999: Project Leader for the introduction of IFRS in the Schindler Group and Head of Corporate Consolidation and Reporting, Schindler Management AG, Switzerland

Family: Married with three children