International Management

Whether you are a global player or a medium-sized company - international management is in demand everywhere today. This occupational field combines business know-how with intercultural competence and global foresight. Prof. Dr Basak Canboy, Prof. Dr Markus Fredebeul-Krein and Prof. Dr Andreas Moosdorf provide insights into strategic challenges, career opportunities and course content - and show how you can get off to a successful start on the international stage with flexibility, language skills and digital understanding. Graduate Ulrike Stöckelmann talks about her career path in International Management.

What is International Management about?

International Management deals with the management and organisation of companies in a global context. It covers topics such as international markets, intercultural co-operation, global value chains and international business strategies. Companies must take local circumstances, cultures and laws into account in order to be successful.

What are the different areas of activity in international management?

The fields of activity range from marketing and sales, finance and accounting, supply chain management and human resources management to international trade, auditing and management consultancy. Each of these areas requires a differentiated understanding of international markets and local conditions.

What does a career start in international management usually look like?

Starting a career in international management can be very different depending on whether you join a company directly or whether you first work in another area and then switch to international management. As a rule, entry into international management requires a good education and experience in another field.

What does the labour market in International Management currently look like?

The labour market is very promising, as companies are increasingly operating internationally. Specialists with intercultural expertise, business know-how and digital skills are in high demand. Companies are looking for people who have a good education and experience in another field and can prepare themselves for the challenges of international management.

What qualifications and skills are necessary to be successful in this occupational field?

To be successful in international management, you need a good education in a relevant field, such as business administration or economics. In addition, skills such as analytical thinking, intercultural competence, strong communication skills and flexibility are particularly important. Language skills, especially English at a high level, are essential.

What do you recommend if you want to pursue an international career?

A degree with an international focus, experience abroad and practical trainings in globally active companies are essential. If you want to pursue an international career, I also recommend preparing yourself for the challenges of international management by familiarising yourself with local conditions, cultures and laws. Networking and learning additional foreign languages can also be an advantage.

Does the International Management programme have compulsory foundation modules?

Yes, we have two Bachelor's degree programmes that prepare students for the occupational field of International Management: International Business Studies and Global Business and Economics. In both degree programmes, students complete modules in business administration and economics, finance, marketing and business law.

Which specialisations can you choose in International Management?

That depends on the degree programme; in Global Business and Economics, for example, there are specialisations in International Business Law, Supply Chain Management, Digital Business, International Taxation and International Strategic Problem Solving.

Are there modules from other areas that you would also recommend in order to be successful in the occupational fields? If so, why?

Yes, for example quantitative methods and data analytics, as data-based decisions are becoming increasingly important. Courses on sustainability or change management are also recommended in order to be prepared for current economic challenges.

Are there any current developments in the occupational field that have an influence on the occupational fields?

Yes, digitalisation and sustainability trends in particular are changing international management. Topics such as artificial intelligence, global supply chain optimisation and sustainable corporate strategies are becoming increasingly important. Companies need to prepare for these developments in order to be successful.