VOICES OF LEADERSHIP
Leadership is often judged by what is visible – decisions made, results delivered, strategies executed. Yet its true foundations are formed out of sight, in moments of uncertainty, reflection, and conviction.
AM Talks is an editorial interview series that brings those moments into focus. Through concise written conversations with our Board members, we explore the experiences, values, and responsibilities that have shaped their leadership journeys.
Each edition presents a single voice and a distinct perspective, shared with clarity and intention.
Because leadership is not merely a role or a title. It is a personal commitment – shaped by choices, context, and experience.
We invite you to explore the AM Talks series and engage with the thinking and perspective behind each leadership journey.
ESRA GÜLMEZ
CHRO – People, Leadership & Culture
” What I value deeply at AstorMueller is that my board colleagues have created a culture where I’m not “different”- I’m simply trusted as a board member. And that’s what modern leadership should look like. “
Achim Tischer
CBO
” We consistently have to balance creativity and commercial discipline. The result won’t be just one successful season – it will strengthen trust with our retail partners and consumers. For me, that’s the balance: creativity opens doors, discipline decides which ones are worth walking through. “
DAVIDE MIGGIANO
COO
” I believe we have developed a capacity for driving complex change across business and technology which we didn’t have a few years ago. This is the result of communicating frequently to align teams around clear priorities, and staying resolute in sponsoring key initiatives even when we faced resistance and continuously simplifying our processes and technology. “
SIRISH KUMAR
MD INDIA
” My approach is to translate global objectives into locally executable systems, not just pass down targets. This means adapting processes, building capabilities, and sequencing implementation so standards are met sustainably, not temporarily. “
ROMAN BARAN
MD ROMANIA
” If I could give myself advice at the beginning of my leadership journey, I would not change the direction of the journey itself. Every stage, especially the uncertain or uncomfortable ones, has shaped my perspective and strengthened my judgment. Leadership does not develop in ideal circumstances; it develops through lived experience. “
FRANK SCHMITZ
CCO
” The commercial function should challenge the organization primarily in how it understands and interprets the market and its retail partners. A deep understanding of customer needs, market dynamics, and retailer expectations is essential for shaping the right direction. “
Jens Keller
CFO
” Courage means acting decisively to ensure long-term financial goals. Despite the fear, uncertainty, or pressure to act opportunistically. It is the acceptance of this and the choice to proceed with a well-thought-out plan rather than giving in to emotional, short-term reactions. That includes fighting for a plan during volatility, overcoming short-term loss aversion, it is about a long-term goal, informed risk taking after due diligence procedures, and last, but not least, admitting (financial) reality. “