At a time when companies are under pressure from geopolitical changes, digital transformation and tougher competitive conditions, they need management that works on several levels. Innovative management approaches today combine soft skills such as empathy and strong communication skills with tangible expertise in analysis, technology and process optimization.
Courage for new management approaches
While traditional companies are fighting more than ever for market share and jobs and managers are increasingly being called upon to communicate crises rather than deal with day-to-day business, it is becoming clear that the success of the future belongs to new, innovative management models. This is precisely why the Munich Management Colloquium (MMK) 2065 presents the MMK Award of Excellence for Innovative Management Approaches - an award for companies that raise their management strategies to a new level in turbulent times; those companies that ensure stability and success in turbulent times through technological expertise, data-driven processes and agile structures.
Breaking new ground - cutting out old habits
There is a growing realization at many management levels that traditional hierarchies, isolated company divisions and rigidly defined role models are increasingly reaching their limits. Companies that address these issues, but also integrate automation, digital platforms and AI-based tools into their management structure, are setting new standards - and are among the potential award winners. The MMK Award in the "Innovative Management Approaches" category is aimed at companies that implement creative yet measurable management practices. One outstanding example is the use of the OKR framework (Objectives and Key Results) by last year's winner Hapag-Lloyd. OKRs ensure target-oriented planning and a clear focus on KPIs. This combination of technical precision and clear communication makes the OKR system a successful model for data-based target management that drives the entire company forward.
The challenges of the present and the power of new management concepts
The conditions under which managers make decisions today are complex: while traditional branches of production are struggling with cost-cutting programs and the automotive industry has to reinvent itself between electrification and traditional models, factors such as employee satisfaction and corporate culture are becoming increasingly important. Managers are faced with the task of creating meaning and orientation in a world in which working from home and flexible working models are suddenly becoming fundamental issues.
Why are more and more employees choosing not to return to the office, even with the lure of food trucks, flexible workspaces and fitness options? Answers to these questions not only have an impact on productivity, but also on trust within a company - trust that is a basis for innovation. The MMK Award for Innovative Management Approaches recognizes concepts that offer answers to these questions: through agile management structures that promote individual strengths and shape corporate culture in a sustainable way.
The jury
A jury of experts from business and science evaluates the submitted concepts and selects the winner. It brings a wide range of expertise and experience to the table in order to recognize innovative approaches.
Dr. Ricarda Engelmeier
Managing DirectorMMK
Prof. Dr. Gunther Friedl
Member of the Management BoardDieter Schwarz Foundation
Prof. Dr. Isabell M. Welpe
Chair of Strategy and OrganizationTUM
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Dr. h. c. mult. Horst Wildemann
Managing Director TCWTechnical University of Munich
Prof. Dr. Christoph Kaserer
Dean of the TUM School of ManagementTechnical University of Munich
Dr. Rudolf Bencker
Senior Vice President Invention & InnovationBMW Group
Dr. Nadine Sterley
CSOGEA Group
Stefan Padberg
Senior Vice President Innovation E.ON Group
Corinna Schittenhelm
Chairwoman of the Board of Directors and Deputy Chairwoman of the Shareholders' CommitteeTÜV South
Why your application counts
Winning the MMK Award of Excellence for Innovative Management Approaches is more than just an award - it gives you access to a unique network and offers your company the opportunity to present itself as a leading player in forward-looking management.
At the Munich Management Colloquium in March 2026, the winners will be presented with their awards on the stage of the Audimax at the Technical University of Munich.
Hundreds of top managers come together at MMK26 to discuss the current challenges facing the industry, develop solutions and learn from each other. In a market environment characterized by crises and change, the exchange with other leaders can not only spark new ideas, but also lead to long-term partnerships. Companies that apply and participate demonstrate their commitment to progress, transparency and sustainability - values that are becoming increasingly central to modern corporate management.
Winner of the MMK25 Award for Innovative Management: Giesecke & Devrient GmbH
Winner 2024
Shortlist 2024
Shortlist 2025
Giesecke & Devrient GmbH: Digital twins as drivers of innovation
Lohmann GmbH: Lohmann Innovation Hub
Rexx systems GmbH: HR-Assistance Rai
Award Assessment
Award Assessment
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