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Department Business and Economics

Guest Lecture by Erik Wirsing (Global Logistics & Innovation Executive)

Guest lecture by Erik Wirsing © TIE Institute
How is Artificial Intelligence transforming logistics? What role do geopolitics, sustainability, and cybersecurity play in shaping innovation strategies? And how can organizations succeed in a world where multiple technologies and external forces are changing simultaneously?

These were some of the key questions addressed by Erik Wirsing, Global Logistics & Innovation Executive and Former VP Global Innovation at DB Schenker, during his guest lecture in our “Technology and Innovation Management” course.

In front of around 120 students on campus and another 25 participants joining online, Erik shared valuable insights into the future of innovation and logistics in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment. His presentation focused on how organizations can navigate major challenges such as artificial intelligence, geopolitics, cybersecurity, sustainability, labor shortages, and global supply chain disruptions.

Using a variety of real-world examples, Erik illustrated how technological innovations are already transforming the logistics industry. Topics such as autonomous trucking, remote driving, AI-supported decision-making, augmented reality, and physical AI demonstrated the scale and speed of ongoing change.

Beyond technology, Erik also addressed key challenges of innovation management. One particularly thought-provoking takeaway was Erik’s argument that the main challenge for organizations today is no longer change itself, but the simultaneous occurrence of multiple disruptive changes. He also highlighted the importance of openness to emerging technologies, collaboration with startups, and the continuous evolution of existing business models.

Many thanks to Erik Wirsing for the inspiring insights, candid real-world perspectives, and fascinating outlook on the future of innovation and logistics!