About us
As the Professorship of Business Administration, in particular Sustainable Business in the Department of Socioeconomics at the University of Hamburg, we strive for a continuous dialogue with students, academics and practitioners to contribute to sustainable development in business, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
We aim to contribute through thorough and relevant research and inspiring and enabling teaching that educates our students as responsible leaders of the future.
Our research is characterized by an empirical approach. Our research findings are published in top international journals (e.g. Journal of Marketing, Journal of Business Ethics, Journal of Consumer Psychology) and have already been awarded several research prizes (e.g. Roman Herzog Research Prize for Social Market Economy 2018 and Max Weber Prize for Business Ethics 2018).
On the following pages you will find information for students and organizations as well as an overview of our research projects. Thank you for your interest in our professorship.
Professorship for Sustainable Business
- We promote the transformation towards a sustainable economy through innovative research, dedicated teaching and strategic partnerships
- We create spaces for experimentation, strengthen sustainable initiatives and make positive impacts visible.
- By building bridges between different social groups and promoting open dialogue, we empower all stakeholders to actively contribute to change.
- Our aim is to renew the understanding of value creation and embed social justice in the economy
Sustainability: We are committed to ensuring that economic activities are in harmony with planetary boundaries and basic social needs.
Justice: Social justice and the reduction of marginalization are central concerns of our research and teaching.
Cooperation: We promote a culture of collaboration and cooperation between different social groups and organizations.
Innovative Spirit: Openness to new ideas and the promotion of social innovations drive our activities.
Empathy: We understand and respect the perspectives and needs of all stakeholders.
Transparency: Our work is characterized by open communication and the visualization of positive effects.
Empowerment: We empower people and organizations to actively and effectively contribute to sustainable transformation.
Vision for a new economy in 2030
In 2030, sustainability has moved from the niche to the mainstream and characterizes economic activity in all areas of society. Tensions and polarization have been reduced and a positive will for sustainable transformation is widespread. The harmful forms of capitalism have been overcome and patriarchal structures have been abolished. Instead of working against each other, people and organizations are now working with each other, building bridges between different groups and creating spaces for dialogue and understanding.
Large companies and social enterprises work hand in hand, utilize spaces for experimentation and promote a culture of collaboration and empowerment. Sustainable initiatives and positive developments are made visible, redefining the understanding of value creation.
People's self-efficacy has been increased so that each person knows how they can effectively contribute to change. Through inspiration and innovation, a new understanding of business has been created that serves people and the planet.
The economy is no longer growth and profit orientated but operates within planetary boundaries and fulfils the basic social needs of all. Open communication, social innovation and empathy characterize economic activity. Social justice is deeply rooted in the economy. All stakeholder groups are involved, and together we are shaping a sustainable, fair and liveable future.