Slowly digesting the sad news of the passing of a warm-hearted colleague, boss, mentor and friend.
I have enjoyed working together with you more than 15 years in various positions and projects, starting my early years with support of Sennheiser UK on their growth path as Market Manager. We were partnered to establish the former Joint Venture Sennheiser Communications, we managed the special decision-making process to pick the organization for the former Sennheiser Leadership Training at GISMA Business School. Later on I was part of your successful Global Sales team and finally we managed a couple of Strategic Collaboration projects.
I remember the get-together party at Hannover’s World EXPO 2000 Latin American Pavilion. Years later, when at the Balloon Festival in Albuquerque, the “chasing car” which was to pick the crew got stuck somewhere in the sandy hills and together with major customers we had to dig out that car, got dusty, dirty and full of sand. The Global Sales Team event in the Harz mountains, a real cold winter day, lots of snow, where the horses that pulled the carriage through the wonderful scenery shared their digestive odor with all of us. General Manager Meetings, Global Conferences, Customer Meetings and Team Events at great locations anywhere in the world, which after long productive days would end with a drink, a good dinner and sometimes controversy discussions. If ever there was a music source and a mic in reach, there was a chance to close the night with Robbie Williams’ “Angels”.
You were a brilliant boss, mentoring, challenging and guiding me in my Sennheiser career. A north star in the Audio Industry, a real business professional, credible and authentic. Likely I would not be where I am today.
We still kept contact even after you left the company – and if it was for the annual Hannover Christmas Market get togethers. I do miss it already and I am even more happy that the “old” team was together last Christmas for a “German Glühwein” and a Bratwurst at the “Pyramide”. You were Wedemarked and Hannoverized to know your way around and could explain foreign colleagues what this location meant. And not only that - you had your family coming to town for a seasonal weekand and showed them around.
We became friends, got to know our families. Amazing how you managed to care for your team and at the same time protect and guard your family back home. Being an engaged grandfather was very meaningful to you and you loved it.
I am thankful to have learned from you over so many years.
My thoughts are with Sue and your family.
You’re gone way too early. Not sure when, but one day we’ll all tune in “Angels” again. Farewell!