Suggestions
Matthias Hendrichs
Geschäftsführender Partner
Professional Background
Matthias Hendrichs is a distinguished entrepreneur and thought leader in the realm of innovation and collaboration. With a career steeped in academic rigor and practical enterprise, he emphasizes the vital importance of fostering innovation within organizations. As he often reflects on the idea posited by economist Joseph Schumpeter in 1911, the central task of any entrepreneur is indeed the advocacy of innovations. For Matthias, innovation is not merely a conceptual process; it is fundamentally about activating people. He ardently believes in creating a work environment where the realization of new ideas is not only encouraged but is also a source of motivation and enjoyment.
At HATTINGER BÜRO GmbH, where Matthias serves as Senior Managing Director, his focus is on harnessing the collective potential of employees and integrating outside expertise into research and development initiatives. Matthias champions the notion that ensuring the long-term competitiveness of a company hinges on its innovation capability. He leads efforts to facilitate discussions and collaborations that can spark transformative ideas and solutions for both small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as larger organizations seeking to enhance their R&D networks.
Education and Achievements
Matthias Hendrichs has an impressive educational background, underscoring his commitment to scientific excellence and business acumen. He earned his Doctor of Natural Sciences (PhD) in Molecular Biology from Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, where his foundational knowledge laid the groundwork for his career in the intersection of science and business. Additionally, he pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on leadership at the German Graduate School of Management and Law (GGS). This dual expertise—scientific and managerial—affords him a unique perspective on driving innovation across various sectors.
His academic journey also included earning a diploma in Biology, with minors in Physics and Organic Chemistry at Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, and training as a Systemic Organizational Consultant through the German Society for Systemic Organizational Consulting. These educational experiences uniquely position him to mentor and guide organizations towards effective collaboration and innovation.
Matthias' extensive experience includes his former role as Head of the business area for Life Science, Health, and Universities of Applied Sciences at Projektträger Jülich, Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH. Here, he provided strategic guidance and leadership in managing research funding programs, enhancing the impact of academic research on industry.
Notably, Matthias is recognized for founding the Accelerator “Gateway” at the University of Cologne, which aimed to empower start-ups and foster entrepreneurial skills among students and recent graduates. His previous appointment as Head of Division for Research Management at Universität zu Köln and as Personal Assistant to the Vice President for Research & Innovation at Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf further illustrate his ability to navigate complex academic landscapes and enhance institutional strategies for research and innovation.
His career is also marked by a robust commitment to alumni relations and fundraising initiatives, having served as Fundraising & Alumni Officer at the Max-Planck-Institute Tübingen and as Project Manager and Deputy Department Head for Private Research Funding / Fundraising at Universität Witten/Herdecke. Matthias’s blend of scientific expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to education makes him a vital influencer in the fields of innovation and research management.
Achievements
Matthias Hendrichs has made significant strides in his career, establishing himself as a pioneer in fostering innovation through collaboration. His efforts to create structured idea development processes through the “Innovation-Initiative” have positively impacted many organizations, particularly small and medium-sized businesses that often struggle with embedding an innovative culture. This initiative successfully engages employees, motivating them to contribute ideas that lead to tangible improvements and advancements.
Often referred to as a champion of 'Collaborate to Innovate', Matthias encourages organizations to integrate external expertise into their research and development activities. This approach not only amplifies innovation but also facilitates access to public funding programs, which can substantially reduce costs while attracting skilled young professionals. His insights have evidently provided a competitive edge for many enterprises seeking to excel in an increasingly competitive market.
In larger corporate settings, Matthias’s strategic focus shifts towards establishing sustainable R&D networks, effectively bridging the gap between academic research institutions and corporate entities. By forging partnerships with esteemed universities and research institutes, he enhances the capabilities of organizations to innovate, adapt, and thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
With a Naval Officer background as a Captain in the Bundeswehr (German Federal Armed Forces), Matthias approaches leadership with discipline and strategic foresight, which complements his extensive professional expertise. This experience has equipped him with unique skills in team management, crisis resolution, and operational excellence that benefit all his endeavors.
In conclusion, Matthias Hendrichs embodies modern entrepreneurship with a clear focus on innovation, collaboration, and research-driven development. His extensive educational qualifications, combined with a diversified professional portfolio, make him a valuable asset in any organization aiming to enhance its innovation capabilities and maintain competitiveness. His emphasis on fostering collaboration, supporting employee engagement, and integrating external expertise continues to drive impactful change across various industries.
