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Dr. Felix Brunner
CBDO @ Office World Group & Experienced Board Member
Professional Background
Dr. Felix Brunner is a distinguished and entrepreneurial senior executive, recognized for his extensive experience and exceptional leadership abilities across various industries, particularly in retail, healthcare, and digital transformation. With over 20 years of both national and international expertise, Dr. Brunner has successfully managed diverse company portfolios and has played pivotal roles in both established companies and startups. His career has been characterized by a blend of analytical skills and results-oriented strategies, making him an invaluable asset in any corporate environment.
Throughout his career, Dr. Brunner has held significant positions that highlight his versatility and leadership capabilities. Notably, he served as the Chief Business Development Officer (CBDO) and Executive Committee Member at Office World Group, where he was instrumental in orchestrating crucial strategies for growth and expansion. His role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Partner at EpiLunar Partners further underscores his profound understanding of operational dynamics and effective management practices.
Dr. Brunner is also recognized for his influence as a Chairman, having led several organizations, including Snäx - Next Level Eatery, MIACAR, and Probikeshop. His transformative approach to leadership is evidenced through his tenure as CEO and Founder of Sparrow Ventures, where he nurtured innovative business solutions and fostered a culture of entrepreneurship.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Felix Brunner’s academic foundation is robust and highly relevant to his professional endeavors. He earned his Doctorate in Business Administration (Dr. oec. HSG) from the prestigious University of St. Gallen (HSG), which is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and its influence in shaping future leaders in the business realm. His educational journey at HSG also includes obtaining a Master’s (M.A. HSG) and Bachelor’s (B.A. HSG) degree, laying a comprehensive groundwork for his future successes.
Further broadening his expertise, Dr. Brunner took on the role of Visiting Scholar at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, supported by the Swiss National Foundation for Scientific Research (SNFS) Scholarship. This experience not only enriched his research capabilities but also expanded his academic perspective on international business practices.
Dr. Brunner has also prioritized executive education, completing several top-tier programs that equip leaders with modern business acumen. He participated in the TopEx Program in Leading Digital Business Transformation at IMD, which empowered him to spearhead initiatives that embrace digital advancements. At Stanford Graduate School of Business, he explored strategies in Leading Change & Organizational Renewal, aligning with his commitment to innovation and adaptability in business practices. Moreover, his participation in programs at Harvard University in Improving Business through a Culture of Health and at the University of California, Berkeley, in Venture Capital & Private Equity Investments showcases his broad understanding of various dimensions of business management.
Notable Leadership Roles and Contributions
With an impressive background in leadership roles, Dr. Felix Brunner has significantly contributed to various organizations as an advisor, board member, and leader. His advisory positions at companies like Migros Online and Digitec Galaxus AG demonstrate his ability to guide businesses through complex challenges while leveraging opportunities for growth. Dr. Brunner has also played crucial roles in enhancing operational efficiencies and strategic direction as a Board Advisor for Ex Libris AG and OWIBA AG.
In his earlier career, Dr. Brunner honed his initial managerial skills as a Management Trainee at Unilever and AUI Fine Foods, enabling him to develop a comprehensive understanding of operational management and consumer behavior. His entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as he co-founded a successful startup in the highly competitive flowers retailing sector, displaying his willingness to take risks and pursue innovative ideas.
Dr. Brunner’s rich experience as a Project Leader at Malik and at the University of St. Gallen has allowed him to engage in high-level research and practical business projects. These experiences not only deepened his understanding of organizational structures but also equipped him with a strategic mindset that he applies in his advisory roles.
Achievements
Dr. Felix Brunner is a professional who embodies the ethos of continuous improvement and strategic foresight. His track record of leadership in various capacities demonstrates not only his versatility but also his dedication to advancing organizational goals through innovative strategies and effective management. As a thought leader in the realms of retail and digital transformation, his contributions continue to resonate in the business community, inspiring new generations of executives to pursue excellence.
