10 questions for… Stefanie Waehlert

In our “10 questions for…” series, we interview employees from all over the company so that Burda – and their colleagues – can get to know them even better. Today we talk to Stefanie Waehlert, who is based in Munich and responsible for the overall management of BurdaVerlag’s For Our Planet initiative. Here she reveals why ease and joy play such a major role in her job and some of the (often literal) high points of her personal life.

Let’s start with our publisher’s favourite question: what are you working on right now?

On For Our Planet, the media platform for sustainability within BurdaVerlag. Our goal is to inform, inspire and mobilise people and companies to act more sustainably for the good of our planet and the future of our children. Our credo is ease & joy, not difficulty & self-denial. We find ways to connect people and their lifestyles with – genuine, sincere – sustainable actions. We launched in March 2021 and have set up various special publications, a conference, digital channels and a seal acknowledging commitment to the climate, coupled with a publishing initiative entitled For Our Planet. This year, For Our Planet will continue to expand with exciting partnerships and collaborations as well as more new topics.

When did you join our company and what did you do before?

I’ve been with BurdaVerlag since April 2020. I come from a management background with a focus on digital environments and have worked both for start-ups and corporations. I have supported and been responsible for the digital transformations of companies such as SBB and TUI.

What is it about your job that fascinates you?

I am passionate about doing my bit to combat climate change – the greatest issue of our time – and encouraging people and companies in Germany to take action. We have many unique opportunities and forms of leverage at Burda, particularly the support our team receives from the entire company – our colleagues share our fervour. It’s really inspiring and a source of great joy.

What skills does your job require?

As well as knowing how to bring a vision to life, you need all-round skills in strategy, conception, developing business models, marketing, project management and leadership.

What has been your greatest challenge so far?

My greatest challenge was nothing to do with my job – it was caring for my father at home.

Who would be your dream collaborator?

Yuval Noah Harari. He’s an Israeli historian.

How would your colleagues describe you?

As a team player, coach and mentor.

What’s your next big goal?

In 2022, I want to use For Our Planet to continue driving the transformation society needs to combat climate change. We’d like to get to the end of 2022 and then look back at and quantify the changes we’ve effected.

How do you switch off outside work?

Outdoor physical activities are my absolute favourite; I can feel my heart soaring and my batteries recharging. I love touring the mountains, running and cycling. I practise yoga and meditation every day.

What are you most looking forward to this year?

Climbing a few more Alpine peaks, including the Alpspitze and Watzmann.