commerce OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN GERMANY

December 2016 • VOL 14 • ISSUE 4 €7.70

Even Closer Transatlantic Ties 10th Transatlantic Business Conference

Cover Story: Global Digital Networks Startup Financing: Growth Company Forum Big Five: 29th Transatlantic Partnership Award Welcome Eveline Y. Metzen: New General Manager The digital car is the future – and we are shaping it Daimler continues to promote digitalization and self-driving cars: Online communication and connected services provide the driver with the latest information and assistance systems support them while driving. In doing so, Daimler is setting the next milestones for the future of the automobile. Visit us at www.daimler.com or www.next.mercedes-benz.com amcham germany viewpoint Strong Transatlantic Ties Are Fundamental

The world is getting smaller with the aid of in- place for the 10th time since its incep- formation and communications technology, and the tion, and the 29th Transatlantic Partner- digital transformation that comes with it is chang- ship Award went to five outstanding ing human society as we know it. New digital tech- German companies for their success, nologies like social media and mobile communica- adaptation and persistence as foreign tion enable real-time interaction, thus changing the investors in the US market: BASF Group, way business is done across the globe and matching BMW Group, Henkel, TRUMPF Group the shift in customer behavior and expectations. In and ZF ­Friedrichshafen AG. In addition, Bernhard Mattes order to seize the opportunities presented by digi- the Berlin­ Growth Company­ Forum took President AmCham Germany talization, companies need to adapt to the digital place for the third year in a row and is world and accept and support the need for change. part of our commitment to support young, innova- After all, change is a good thing, since it allows us tive entrepreneurs. to embrace new experiences and new perspectives. Lastly, AmCham Germany will undergo a change Looking forward, strong transatlantic ties will in the coming months. In December, Eveline Metzen be fundamental in providing our economies with started her role as the new General Manager of a competitive edge, since the leap to a fully digi- ­AmCham Germany. With her deep commitment to tal society can only be mastered if we combine the German-American relations, her professional ex- strengths of Germany, Europe and the US. perience and extensive transatlantic network, she For this reason, we are focusing on digital trans- is more than ready to navigate AmCham Germany formation and global networks in this edition of com- through its next chapter. I look forward to continu- merce germany. Teleperformance provides insight ing our work together on behalf of our members and into how digital is changing customer experience, in the interest of strong transatlantic relations. And whereas Telekom explores how the Internet of Things I look forward to a fruitful and inspiring collabora- creates great opportunities for European companies. tion with Eveline. In terms of internal news, AmCham Germany I wish you all the very best for the upcoming holi- had a series of successful major events in the fall, day season and the New Year. Make sure to mark which are highlighted in this edition of ­commerce your calendars for our New Year’s Receptions com- ­germany. The Transatlantic Business Conference took ing up in January 2017.

When the going gets tough… The digital car is the future – Interim Management in Finance/Accounting/Controlling and we are shaping it Committed & Professional

 Ad hoc/vacancy/sick leave bridging, startup of business sites in Germany Daimler continues to promote digitalization and self-driving cars: Online  20years+ professional experience in dynamic environments and US head- communication and connected services provide the driver with the latest quartered companies, mainly Software/IT  Familiar with all aspects of Finance, managerial as well as operational information and assistance systems support them while driving. In doing so,  Strong SOX background, SSC implementation, Sales Controlling, German Daimler is setting the next milestones for the future of the automobile. & US GAAP & IFRS and more  Hands on, computer literate, multi-lingual, business partner oriented Visit us at www.daimler.com or www.next.mercedes-benz.com If you need someone to go the extra mile for your business, we should talk!

PCS Schlessing GmbH — Bodo Schlessing, Managing Director — Im Ruessel 7 — 64839 Muenster (Germany, Frankfurt area) — Phone +49 (0)178 695 5358 — email: [email protected] www.pcs-schlessing.de

December 2016 commerce germany 3 ADVERTISE IN OUR PUBLICATIONS MAKE YOURSELF BE SEEN!

commerce germany 2017 • AmCham Germany Yearbook 2018

commerce germany – topics 2017

March 2017 Money and Law: Change through Digitalization · Thanksgiving 2016 and New Year’s Receptions 2017 June 2017 Innovations: Shaping Tomorrow‘s Technologies through R&D · Report on 114th Annual Membership Meeting 2017 · Presentation Business Barometer · Interns‘ Arrival: Continuation of AmCham Germany‘s Successful Initiative “US-German Internship Program” September 2017 Corporate Management: Digital Workplace · TOP 50 US Companies in Germany · AmCham Germany Summer Festivals · Interns‘ Get-Together December 2017 Industry Trends 2018: What Does the Future Look Like? · AmCham Germany‘s 11th Annual Transatlantic Business Conference AmCham Germany Yearbook 2018 Our membership directory and American-German business guide is one of the most important references for trans- atlantic business relations. The AmCham Germany Yearbook 2018 will be published in December 2017. Ask for more information

Call Sabine Karbowy (+49 6127 9993150) or Barbara Böhnke (+49 178 7988882), send an email to [email protected] or visit our websites.

www.amcham.de / www.acc-verlag.de

4C_180x256_Topics_2017.indd 1 22.11.2016 15:05:51 contents

cover story

ADVERTISE IN OUR PUBLICATIONS 6 Digital Transformation – Global Networks / Telekom; Teleperformance MAKE YOURSELF BE SEEN! from amcham germany members

14 executive member spotlight: German Anwalt for German Mittelstand – Globally / Squire Patton Boggs

15 member know-how: Digital as a Second Language / change2target

amcham germany member support

18 policy hightlights: Committee Meetings and Position Papers

amcham germany events commerce germany 2017 • AmCham Germany Yearbook 2018 8 10th Annual Transatlantic Business Conference – Even Closer Transatlantic Ties

12 2016 Berlin Growth Company Forum – Promoting Startup Growth commerce germany – topics 2017 16 29th Transatlantic Partnership Award – Big Five for Transatlantic Ties March 2017 Money and Law: Change through Digitalization · Thanksgiving 2016 and New Year’s Receptions 2017 June 2017 Innovations: Shaping Tomorrow‘s Technologies through R&D · Report on 114th Annual Membership Meeting 2017 · Presentation Business Barometer · Interns‘ Arrival: Continuation chamber news of AmCham Germany‘s Successful Initiative “US-German Internship Program” September 2017 Corporate Management: Digital Workplace · TOP 50 US Companies in Germany · AmCham 20 Board of Directors Fall Meeting Germany Summer Festivals · Interns‘ Get-Together Eveline Y. Metzen Welcomed as the New General Manager ­ December 2017 Industry Trends 2018: What Does the Future Look Like? · AmCham Germany‘s 11th Annual 20 Transatlantic Business Conference AmCham Germany Yearbook 2018 Our membership directory and American-German business guide is one of the most important references for trans- atlantic business relations. The AmCham Germany Yearbook 2018 will be published in December 2017. 25 new members Ask for more information 27 chamber calendar

Call Sabine Karbowy (+49 6127 9993150) or Barbara Böhnke (+49 178 7988882), send an email to [email protected] or visit our websites. Cover: José Manuel Barroso, former President of the and Former Prime Minister of Portugal, at the 10th Annual Transatlantic Business Conference www.amcham.de / www.acc-verlag.de December 2016 commerce germany 5

4C_180x256_Topics_2017.indd 1 22.11.2016 15:05:51 cover story

Internet of Things Artificial intelligence Narrowband network

Digital Transformation – Global Network

Digital transformation is thoroughly changing everything from production to consumption. Mobile and connected devices are ubiquitous and robots are increasingly shaping not only production but also communication between companies and consumers. A new narrowband network for the Internet of Things (IoT) provides the neccessary infrastructure and creates opportunities for the companies involved.

Digitally Changing Customer Experience

igital transformation is here and will con- ticipate their needs, making tinue to both pose challenges and create the entire experience easy Artificial intelligence will opportunities for companies in all indus- and seamless. tries. Look into any modern factory and We no longer talk about change the way customers Dyou can immediately see the effect of automa- customer service, but about interact with companies tion, as robots have taken over many remedial customer experience man- tasks that used to be carried out by employees. agement. The more intelli- Brian Blackader CEO Technology is becoming more “human” with an gent the technology in the Teleperformance Germany S. à r. l. & Co. KG increasing ability to learn, adapt and improve. background, the more eas- www.teleperformance.com Today, robots can even master knowledge-based ily we can optimize each in- tasks where human interaction used to be essen- teraction with the customer. tial. This trend is impacting our business in cus- Each touchpoint is a source of information that agent will be handled in part or entirely by ma- tomer experience management. can be used to improve processes and thus the chines. This technology is already becoming part 25 years ago, we bought our plane tickets overall experience. of our lives – we can talk to our phones with from a travel agent. 15 years ago, we spoke with Artificial intelligence already allows com- Siri, and can speak to the navigation systems someone in a call center. Today, we search for puters to chat (text via web portal or app) with in our cars. Self-learning robots will be the next and order our tickets online or directly through an customers, without them even knowing it! Of big thing in customer experience management, app on our phone. We only pick up the phone and course, these robots need to be trained and de- and will change the way customers interact with speak to a real person when all other efforts have signed with the right content. Natural language brands and companies. failed. Customers have a wide variety of oppor- processing is at the heart of this development, Those that embrace this shift will be well tunities to communicate with companies without and is just the first step towards natural verbal positioned to profit. The most successful com- ever having to interact with a real person. Often conversations between humans (customers) and panies will design their experience around the customers now prefer not to deal with personal robots (companies). In the future, many of the customer perception to drive brand loyalty and interactions at all, and expect that companies an- calls that would normally land with a call center growth. 

6 commerce germany December 2016 © pixtum/iStockphoto

The Internet of Things: A Great Opportunity for Europe

lot has been said and written about how networks, 5G technology for Europe, supposedly, has ceded the con- real-time applications, the sumer market for digitization to the US narrowband network for The narrowband network will internet giants. But the digitization we the Internet of Things (NB- bring the Internet of Things into Ahave seen until now is just the first half of a de- IoT), and platforms for stor- every corner of buildings velopment that is going to touch all areas of our ing, analyzing and process- lives. The second half now getting underway in- ing data in the cloud. Reinhard Clemens Member of the Board for T-Systems volves digitization in the industry. And for this, the Deutsche Telekom has Deutsche Telekom AG cards have been redealt – and it looks like Europe launched an IoT-capable www.telekom.com has a great hand! narrowband network in Ger- Let's look at this, first of all, from an economic many and the Netherlands. perspective. According to the World Economic Fo- Together with Huawei, the company has activat- matchbox-size sensors with ever-greater energy rum, Europe has 10 of the world’s 20 most com- ed an end-to-end system for narrowband commu- efficiency, the network will offer a world of new petitive economies. What is more, Europe has 142 nications. NB-IoT has already become a globally possibilities. Millions of machines will be con- companies on the Forbes 500 list, while the US accepted standard. This means, for example, that nected to the internet, enabling their manufac- has 128. Additionally, Europe has a 15% share manufacturers of smart, WiFi-­enabled washing turers to carry out maintenance and service re- of global exports and a single market with 500 machines can offer the same digital functionali- motely. And such benefits will apply not only to million people. ties worldwide, without having to make country- new equipment, but also to existing machines The technical side of things is just as impor- specific changes. This is a level of global stand- and systems. tant. Here, the principle of “success to the suc- ardization that railway operators and electricity Telekom has focused on this technological cessful” plays a big role. For example, to intercon- suppliers can only dream of. trend at a very early stage, preparing its custom- nect machines, cars and countless other things, NB-IoT will bring the internet to just about all ers for the new possibilities in a digital world free we need a successful network infrastructure with nooks and crannies of buildings, even down to of boundaries. With this head start, IoT is an enor- internet protocol (IP) based telecommunications their underground sections. In combination with mous opportunity for all of Europe. 

December 2016 commerce germany 7 special feature

TRANSATLANTIC The Transatlantic Marketplace 2016: Business Conference Leadership in a Challenging World 10th Annual Transatlantic Business Conference Strategic inspiration and impulses for the economic and political partnership

John B. Emerson Martin Richenhagen US Ambassador Chairman, President and CEO to Germany AGCO Corporation

Ulrich Grillo President Federation of German Industries (BDI)

Even Closer Transatlantic Ties

Frankfurt/M, Nov. 9-10. One day after the election of Donald Trump as the next president of the United States,­ around 400 decisionmakers from business, politics and society gathered in Frankfurt/M for the 10th Annual ­Transatlantic Business Conference. Participants not only discussed the outcome of the elections and possible ­implications for the EU-US partnership, they also called for even closer transatlantic ties to cope with today’s ­challenges, global megatrends and fast-paced digitalization.

he outcome of the US presidential elec- transatlantic relations will also serve under a new bassador to Germany, voiced concerns that the tions dominated much of the discussions US administration,” he said. “Our economic re- election of Donald Trump might deepen the di- during this year’s Transatlantic Business lationships are strong and they will support and vide which has become visible across the elector- Conference, and indeed an outlook on sustain all other relations.” ate. “President-elect Trump is a stress test for the Thow President-elect Donald Trump will influence Michael Reuther, Member of the Board of Man- American democracy,” he stated. Dr. Ian Lesser, transatlantic political and economic relations in aging Directors at Commerz­bank AG, added to this Senior Director for Foreign Policy at The German 2017 and beyond is exceptionally uncertain. in his opening remarks, saying that “as entrepre- Marshall Fund of the United States (GMF), and Nevertheless, the overall tenor was clear from neurs, we do not focus on the problems, we look Dr. Josef Braml, Resident Fellow of the Transat- the evening of the conference, when AmCham at the opportunities.” lantic Relations program at the German Council Germany President Bernhard Mattes welcomed The political topic was continued on stage on Foreign Relations (DGAP), agreed to this skep- guests atop the Commerzbank Tower in down- with a lively discussion in the evening’s opening tical view drawing a parallel to upcoming elec- town Frankfurt/M: “The strong foundation of panel. Prof. James D. Bindenagel, retired US Am- tions in Europe. Marjorie­ A. Chorlins, Vice Presi-

8 commerce germany December 2016 dent European­ Affairs at the US Chamber of Commerce, In his keynote speech, Ulrich Grillo, President of the insisted that the election wasn’t a referendum on trade, Federation of German Industries (BDI), called on the stating that there were more people in the US that were German community to take a pragmatic approach: “We “Politics needs to reach the people in favor of trade than ever before, but under a President have to actively reach out to the new US administration – this is what Trump has discovered. Trump the focus will clearly be on a domestic agenda. in order to prevent that the rhetoric of separation and There is a similar development in Europe.” “TTIP is moving in a period of hibernation. I don’t see it protectionism becomes reality.” Kemal Sahin coming back soon,” she said. The first panel discussion of the day then turned to Chairman and CEO the topic of Europe: “The European Dream – Strength Sahinler Group Europe More transatlantic cooperation, not less through Integration”. The panelists Markus J. Beyrer, J ­Director General of BusinessEurope; Jacqueline Fechner, On the conference day, around 400 decisionmakers­ Chairman of the Board at Xerox GmbH; Prof. Stephan “We always have to promote from German, American and multinational companies Reimelt, President of GE Germany and Austria; Kemal the values which are close to as well as representatives from politics and society, Sahin, Chairman and CEO of Sahinler Group Europe; our hearts.” came together to discuss ways to deepen transatlantic and Rüdiger Marquardt, Member of the Board at DIN Ulrich Grillo ties and German-US business relations. “The maxim in e.V., agreed that while the majority of the EU contin- President Federation of German Industries (BDI) today’s world full of political and economic challeng- ues to pursue integration, the distance to the fringes is es has to be more, not less, transatlantic cooperation,” growing, similar to the phenomenon in American so- J said ­AmCham Germany President Bernhard Mattes in ciety. Panelists remained moderately optimistic. “Glo- his opening speech: “Isolation is no solution.” Mattes balization will not disappear overnight,” said Beyrer. “This was the most unusual presi- called on the business community to step forward and ­Reimelt agreed, underlining that many challenges, such dential election in US history.” show some real leadership, by vigorously informing citi- as those regarding energy politics, for example, can only John B. Emerson US Ambassador to Germany zens on both sides of the Atlantic about the benefits of be solved on a global level. trade and global investment. J John B. Emerson, US Ambassador to Germany, Dialog is key took up the theme underlining how close EU-US ties “Digital natives will have a whole and trade relations are the basis for our prosperity and One of the highlights of the afternoon was the key- lot more jobs than we do today. peace “in the complexity which impacts our societies note speech by Martin Richenhagen, Chairman, President And they will vote with their feet.” Tim Good and economies in this interconnected world.” Emerson and CEO of AGCO Corporation. Richenhagen, who has Managing Director was greeted with standing ovations by the audience for dual citizenship and has been living in the US for the past Accenture Strategy his fourth and last – during his time in office – opening 12 years, presented his view commenting on the presi- speech at this conference. dential elections. He said he was “­moderately optimistic”­ J

“Digitalization has already deeply Even Closer Transatlantic Ties transformed our private lives – in the world of work we still have to sell its opportunities to people.” Jacqueline Fechner, Chairman of the Board Xerox GmbH

J

“There is a risk of returning to national standards. Standards should serve to open up markets.” Opening Panel Rüdiger Marquardt Member of the Board DIN e.V

J

“We have to learn to speak to people in a way that they understand.” Prof. Dr. h.c. Martin Richenhagen Chairman, President and CEO AGCO Corporation

Prof. Stephan Reimelt Sabine Bendiek Jacqueline Fechner

For full coverage of the event, please visit www.transatlantic-marketplace.com

December 2016 commerce germany 9 special feature

ORGANIZERS from a business perspective, since several elements of ten still hesitant when it comes to digitalization,” said Trump’s plans, such as a tax reform and investments in Sabine Bendiek, Managing Director of Microsoft Ger- infrastructure, would act as a boost to the US economy. many, calling on the business community to open up “Trump’s presidency has opportunities as much as risks,” to cloud solutions. “Fear is a bad advisor,” Martin Ott, he said, calling on the stakeholders to enter into dialog Managing Director Central Europe at , agreed. with the President-elect and his team on the importance Jonas Prising, Chairman & CEO of Manpower Group, of transatlantic relations and free trade. then turned back to the political impact of digitalization, The closing panel of the conference then turned to the pointing out that not all people benefit from digitaliza- IN COOPERATION WITH topic of digitalization, taking a closer look at how digital tion, which is one of the factors causing the current po- technologies impact the business models of existing play- larization of the workforce and the electorate on both ers. Nicolai Andersen, Chief Innovation Officer at Deloitte, sides of the Atlantic.­ referred to the automotive industry saying that obvious The dinner speech of José Manuel Barroso, former competitors such as ’s self-driving cars might be President of the European Commission and Former CO-ORGANIZERS less of a threat than innovations such as the e-motor,­ that Prime Minister of Portugal, rounded the day off. Barroso might fundamentally impact the way motors function and underlined the key role of the US in the formation and are maintained. Jörg Hessenmüller, Head of Group Strat- development of the European Union, calling the trans- egy and Development at Commerzbank AG, on the con- atlantic partnership one of the “most harmonious” re- trary, stated that in the banking sector fintechs could be lationships of mutual trust. considered an inspiration for banks to rethink their rela- During the two days, participants and speakers never PARTNERS tionships with customers. tired of underlining the importance to retain the close The discussion also touched on the importance of economic ties between the two countries for the benefit digitalization for the German Mittelstand. “SMEs are of- of people on both sides of the Atlantic. 

SUPPORTERS

Marjorie A. Chorlins Martin Ott Rüdiger Marquardt Tim Good

MAIN MEDIA PARTNERS

MEDIA PARTNERS Markus J. Beyrer Bianca Bourbon Jonas Prising Dr. Ian Lesser

DINNER RECEPTION HOST

Frank Samolis James D. Bindenagel Jörg Hessenmüller Bastian Frien

10 commerce germany December 2016 Nicolai Andersen Dr. Josef Braml

Commerzbank workshop

Pulina Whitaker Jack Ewing Jörg Krings

DIN e.V. workshop

Eddie McLaughlin Kemal Sahin

Diving Deep into Business, Digitalization and Trade Workshop sessions picked up where panels left off on questions of digitalization and business strategies.

esides the broad overview the speeches el participants explored how digital technologies Another session moderated by Pricewaterhouse- provided during the conference day, par- have the potential to fundamentally change es- Coopers (PwC) looked at the challenges of digital ticipants could choose among eight dif- tablished processes in the industry and impact ex- mergers and acquisitions by traditionally non-digi- ferent workshops taking a deeper dive isting players in the real economies of Germany, tal “old economy” companies. In his “post-election Binto selected topics of transatlantic business and the US and beyond. analysis”, Frank Samolis, Partner at Squire Patton digitalization, such as emerging and possibly dis- Sibylle Gabler from DIN e.V. moderated a Boggs, took another look ahead at what might be ruptive technologies. This workshop conducted by workshop on the role of standards for the devel- expected in terms of trade policy and TTIP after the Deloitte gave an impression of new digital tech- opment of the digital economy with experts from US presidential elections. nologies such as blockchain which are thoroughly various industries, who examined how standardi- Accenture Strategy’s afternoon workshop changing the way companies do business. Using zation attempts to find answers to the challeng- shed light on how digital technology is affecting this technology as an example, Nicolai Andersen, es posed by digitalization. Meanwhile, at their the workforce of the future and how work could Chief Innovation Officer at Deloitte, explored the workshop, Morgan Lewis discussed to what ex- be humanized by digital technology. Tim Good, future pointing out several possible scenarios. “We tent Brexit could impact economies outside the Managing Director at Accenture Strategy, shared don’t know which technology will generate the UK and the EU, inviting partners from their inter- a historical approach to explaining how the digital next wave of disruption,” he said, “but to gain a national offices to present their views from vari- (r)evolution will impact our every-day work. “To- competitive edge, companies should be prepared ous locations around the world. day, the notion of a lifetime job has disappeared,” and take an active role in this shift from an emerg- Corporate decisionmakers need to deal ef- he said. “Instead, we start seeing a ‘gig economy’ ing technology to market maturity.” fectively with a fast-changing environment while in the world of work – people coming together Another workshop hosted by Commerzbank executing their corporate strategies. In the after- to perform a project, but then continuing to travel and moderated by Christian Hoppe, Founding noon, Aon Risk Solution’s workshop explored ways somewhere else with somebody else.” He contin- Director of main incubator, looked into a similar of protecting the balance sheet and driving val- ued by introducing some of the new jobs digitali- topic with a focus on the financial sector. Pan- ue from a corporate risk management perspective. zation will likely create. 

December 2016 commerce germany 11 special report: growth company forum Promoting Startup Growth: 2016 Berlin Growth Company Forum

Discussing the policy context for growth companies (pictured from left): Nikolay; Zypries; moderator Corinna Visser, Chief Editor of Berlin Valley News; Brunner; and Kirschbaum.

ow to grow a business successfully? ­Germany as their biggest problem for managing ­Brunner, CEO of relayr; and Dr. Tom Kirschbaum, What are key factors to win financing growth and innovation. Indeed, creating an eco- co-founder of Door2Door, who said that ­German from investors? Around 120 partici- system for growth would require “all stakeholders companies, politicians, and investors could learn pants came to Berlin to discuss this and to work hand in hand to provide traditional and a lot from the American mindset, which is more Hmore at the third annual Berlin Growth Company new financing solutions to startups to help them entrepreneurial and open to disruptive innova- ­Forum on Oct. 12. The event was again organ- flourish,” she continued. tion. ized by ­AmCham Germany's Entrepreneurship Jörn Nikolay, Managing Director EMEA of in- During the full-day conference, presentations ­Committee together with the German Startups vestment fund General Atlantic, added to this in by German growth companies relayr, Outfittery, Association and the German Tech Entrepreneur- his speech saying that “in 2015, Berlin was bigger Juniqe and Flixbus on their lessons learned alter- ship Center­ (GTEC), supported by KPMG and ESMT than London in raising investments for startups,” nated with further interesting panels on aspects Berlin. The aim was to foster the German startup but pointing out that Germany must continue to of the growth phase such as collaborating with ecosystem and promote exchange between inves- work on education, financing and entrepreneur- corporates, developing talent and leadership, and tors and startups in their growth phase. ship in order not to fall behind. going global. “What we need in Germany is an ecosys- The policy context of company growth in The afternoon also saw a round of pitches tem for growth,” said Hauke Stars, Member of ­Germany was the focus of a top-level panel with by startup companies introducing their business the Executive Board, Deutsche Börse AG, in her an introduction by , Parliamen- ­ideas and hoping to spark interest from investors. opening speech. She cited a survey of digital as- tary State Secretary of the Federal Ministry for A broad range of networking opportunities for sociation Bitkom, showing that 55% of the partic- ­Economic Affairs and Energy. Panelists represent- startup investors and service providers comple- ipating companies identify access to financing in ing the private sector were Jörn Nikolay; Josef mented the agenda. 

Pictured here are (from left): Oliver Behrens, CEO, Morgan Stanley Bank AG; Dr. Bern- Pictured here are (front row, from left): Sascha Schubert, Deputy Chairman of hard Mohr, Managing Director of Evonik Venture Capital GmbH; André Marquis, Execu- the German Startups Association; Stars; Ludwig von Reiche, Chair of AmCham tive Director at the University of California at Berkeley; Erik Magdanz, US Embassy; Germany’s Entrepreneurship Committee; and Prof. Jörg Rocholl, President of ESMT Dr. Lutz Raettig, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Morgan Stanley Bank AG. Berlin.

12 commerce germany December 2016 Brigitte Zypries Josef Brunner Hauke Stars Brent Walsh, Partner at KRW International

Inspiring panel on the relationship between growth companies and corporates Pictured here are (from left): Farcet; Marquis; and von Reiche. (pictured from left): Alex Farcet, Partner at Rainmaking; Marquis; von Reiche; Mohr; and Marc Pohl, Founder and Managing Director of Juniqe.

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Ad.indd 1 9/14/16 2:25 PM December 2016 commerce germany 13 executive member spotlight © violetkaipa/Thinkstock Squire Patton Boggs: German Anwalt for German Mittelstand – Globally

Legal services on a global scale Multi-industry expertise Private and public sector clients

he German Mittelstand is one of Germany’s­ region. The experienced team understands the lution, intellectual property, product liability, risk biggest success stories. ­However, ­legal combination of global markets and the perspec- and crisis management. In addition, the prac- complexities involving multinationals tive of German­ businesses. The group's lawyers tice's lawyers have an in-depth understanding of and multiple jurisdictions can be chal- assist their clients in navigating the complexities a broad variety of industry sectors including auto- Tlenging and require exhaustive knowledge of of international legal challenges, whether a dis- motive, distribution, information technology, real and practical experience in the world’s govern- pute arises or a contract needs to be negotiated. ­estate, transportation, project finance and finan- ing laws and applicable rules. cial services.  Know-how across a range of industries Serving German clients globally The practice has received market recognition Squire Patton Boggs is one of the few inter- for its focus on litigation, corporate, dispute reso- Dr. Alexander P. Imberg Chair Global German Practice national legal practices that can provide a tru- Partner ly global perspective and services – in German Squire Patton Boggs and with tailor-made solutions for the worldwide Suite 2600 275 Battery Street ▸ ABOUT THE COMPANY San Francisco, CA 94111, USA business of the German Mittelstand. In addition T +1 415 743-2414 to offices in Berlin, Böblingen and Frankfurt/M, Founded in 1890 in Cleveland, Squire Patton E alexander.imberg@ Boggs is one of the world’s strongest inte- squirepb.com the firm's Global German Practice comprises grated legal practices. With 46 offices in 21 W www.squirepattonboggs.com ­German-speaking lawyers around the globe, in- countries, the firm is renowned for its local cluding Shanghai, Sydney, New York, San Fran- connections and global influence, delivering cisco and London. A German-speaking lawyer is comprehensive legal services across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia Pacific available in most jurisdictions and time zones. Dr. Kai Mertens As the global partner of German medium- and Latin America. With expertise spanning Managing Partner Germany all key sectors, the firm is also known for its Squire Patton Boggs sized enterprises and family-owned companies, preeminent public policy practice and deep- Unter den Linden 14 Squire Patton Boggs is present in the most stra- rooted relationships in Washington, DC and 10117 Berlin T +49 30 726168000 tegic markets of the world and aware of the cul- Brussels. E [email protected] tural and business nuances of each country and W www.squirepattonboggs.com

14 commerce germany December 2016 member know-how

Digital as a Second Language

igitalization has defined a great of products are increasingly turning into quirements. Training courses and coach- part of our lives in recent years. service providers – and, in many cases, ing sessions are no longer enough. But the speed of change has are venturing into unknown territory. Companies and their people must fun- put us in an ambivalent posi- As a consequence, traditional firms damentally change their approach and Dtion: On the one hand, we are excited are increasingly under pressure. Now their culture. Employees need to expe- about the new possibilities the inter- more than ever, CEOs are look- rience a compelling dig- net offers. We can order everything with ing for a strategy to take their ital strategy firsthand to a smartphone to be delivered to our staff on board for their journey Companies must transfer their digital en- homes. We are active in social networks, into the future. While enthusi- fundamentally thusiasm from their pri- increasingly willing to forego ownership asm for a “Facebook life” can change their vate lives to the com- in order to share things with other peo- be huge in private lives, many approach and pany. This requires bold ple. On the other hand, boosted by the employees are unsure how their their culture steps and clear commu- Martin Fischer nication. On-the-job sup- CEO Internet of Things, we fear that robots company will adapt to compete change2target GmbH might replace us in the workforce. in the long term and what role port through “digitaliza- T +49 221 949691-31 Changes in customer ­behavior en­ they will play in the future. Older employ- tion coaches” is an essential element in E martin.fischer@ change2target.com able competition, and new players cause ees lose track when watching digital na- eliminating fear and in experiencing the W www.change2target.com an unpredictable marketplace. Startups tives apply new tools and working in dif- new world at the workplace. This pro- take advantage of digitization by mak- ferent environments. cess is almost similar to learning a sec- ing processes easier and more conveni- Traditional approaches to change ond language to be able to integrate in- ent for their customers. Manufacturers management fail to meet the new re- to a different culture. 

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December 2016 commerce germany 15 special report: amcham germany transatlantic partnership award

Panel discussion with the awardees. Pictured here are (from left): Moderator Steingart, Perkins, Willisch, Szelest-Shah, Hoecklin, and Kleiner. Big Five for Transatlantic Ties

On Oct. 20, AmCham Germany presented the 29th Transatlantic Partnership Award in Berlin to five outstanding companies – BASF Group, BMW Group, Henkel, Trumpf Group and ZF Friedrichshafen AG – for their success, adaptation and persistence as foreign investors in the US market.

hile the media headlines were still house in what once used to be the second larg- “These companies stand for success, adap- abuzz with news from the US pres- est inland port of Germany. Ford Motor Compa- tation and persistence in the US market,” said idential campaign and its possible ny manufactured its cars here prior to 1931. The ­AmCham Germany President Bernhard Mattes political implications, German and ­almost century-old venue with its industrial flair in his opening speech. “They serve as exemplary WAmerican politicians and business leaders gath- provided a spectacular setting as AmCham Ger- role models for foreign investors in the US and ered in Berlin for the Transatlantic Partnership many presented the award to five awardees, all the award pays tribute to their achievements in Award ceremony to honor outstanding contribu- from the manufacturing sector. For the first time bringing business and people on both sides of the tions to the advancement of German-American in the history of the Transatlantic Partnership Atlantic together.” friendship. Award, it recognized five German companies: Mattes then invited award sponsor Ulrich W. They congregated at the Westhafen Event & BASF Group, BMW Group, Henkel, Trumpf Group Reinholdt to address the audience. In his speech, Convention Center in Berlin – a former ware- and ZF ­Friedrichshafen AG. Reinholdt stressed the importance of strong

Pictured here are (from left) Riemensperger and Mattes with the representatives of the award-winning companies: Willisch, Van Bylen, Perkins, Leibinger-Kammüller, Hoecklin, Szelest-Shah, Smith, Sommer, and Kleiner.

16 commerce germany December 2016 Inspiring panel discussion with (from left) Sommer, Steingart, Van Bylen, Leibinger-Kammüller, and Smith.

­German-American relations based on the history President Market & Business Development North of the two countries. Reinholdt has been a member America, BASF Corporation; Ludwig ­Willisch, Pres- of AmCham Germany’s Board of Directors for the ident & CEO, BMW of North America; Hans Van last ten years, and very actively engaged in the ac- Bylen, CEO Henkel; Jerry Perkins, President, ­Henkel tivities of the Rhine-Main Regional Committee. As North America; Dr. Nicola Leibinger-­ Kammüller,­ transatlantic relations are very dear to his heart, he President & Chairwoman of the Managing Board, has generously sponsored the Transatlantic Part- TRUMPF Group; Peter Hoecklin, President & CEO, nership Award several times. TRUMPF Inc. North America; Dr. Stefan Som- mer, CEO, ZF Friedrichshafen AG; and Dr. Franz Role models for transatlantic cooperation ­Kleiner, Member of the Board of Management, ZF Friedrichshafen­ AG. Transatlantic relations are not only the histori- Later on Gabor Steingart, Chairman and Pub- cal and cultural ties between the US and Germany, lisher of Handelsblatt, moderated two panel dis- Award sponsor Ulrich W. Reinholdt and Mattes. but first and foremost the intensive trade between cussions spanning topics ranging from TTIP and the two big economies. In return, trade provides public sentiment in the US and EU, to digitalization the basis for peace and prosperity on both sides of and the impetus from Silicon Valley, to emerging the Atlantic. “We thrive best, when we are togeth- markets in Asia. In the discussion, the statements er,” US Ambassador John B. Emerson reminded the of the panelists revealed their dedication and de- audience in his laudatio. votion to maintaining deep German-American­ The Ambassador’s speech was followed by ties across the Atlantic and their openness to the presentation of the awards by Mattes and learn from their American business partners. As ­AmCham Germany Executive Vice President Frank ­Bernhard Mattes had said earlier during the even- Riemensperger. The following representatives ac- ing: “Our economies are interdependent and inter- cepted the award on behalf of their companies: connected. We profit from each other’s strengths. Wayne T. Smith, Member of the Board of Exec- And we – the transatlantic partners – are stronger utive Directors, BASF SE; Teressa Szelest-Shah,­ together than we are apart.”  US Ambassador John B. Emerson

December 2016 commerce germany 17 policy highlights

Business of Healthcare Committee Presents New Position Paper

Berlin, Sept. 20. During a parliamentary breakfast, the Business of Healthcare Committee presented its latest position paper to members of the ­German ­ . The paper focuses on the challenges and opportunities for the healthcare industry and prerequisites for an adequate and economically viable healthcare system. In his speech, , MdB (CDU), described the key requirements: progress and innovation, efficiency and connectedness. The ensuing discussion concentrated on the necessary framework for a sus- tainable healthcare system. Planning security, transparency and open markets are inevitable fundamentals for a viable healthcare system. Pictured here are (from left): Dr. Gerd Kräh, Chair Health Care Committee, and Hennrich. 

National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights

Berlin, Oct. 10. Members of the Corporate Responsibility (CR) Committee met with Dr. Tilo Klinner, Director for International Economic, Trade and Finan- cial Policy, Foreign Trade and Investment Promotion and Technology Policy at the Federal Foreign Office (pictured third from left). They discussed the Ger- man “National Action Plan for Business and Human Rights” currently being elaborated by the Federal Government. The action plan aims to implement the United Nation’s guiding principles for business and human rights for the activities of German companies in their value and supply chains. It is to be adopted by the Federal Cabinet in the current legislative term. 

Discussion on Current Developments in Tax Policy and Tax Law

Berlin, Oct.19. Members of the Tax Committee met with Dr. Mathias ­Middelberg, MdB (CDU/CSU), and Dr. Christian Schleithoff, Head of Department Grundsatzfragen (fundamental issues) in International Tax Poli- cy at the Federal Ministry of Finance to discuss current tax policy issues. The meeting touched on current developments with regard to country-by-­country reporting towards public reporting as well as the implementation of Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) in Germany and the EU. While Middelberg focused his presentation on the public hearing in the financial committee of the German Bundestag on BEPS, Schleithoff provided a broad but concise overview of the developments in international tax policy and tax law. The meeting was hosted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). 

TIM Breakfast on Digital Economy

Berlin, Oct. 7. The Telecommunications, Internet and Media (TIM) Commit- tee welcomed Alan B. Davidson, Director of Digital Economy at the US Department of Commerce (pictured second from left), for another event in its TIM Breakfast series. Davidson gave an overview of the US Commerce ­Department’s Digital Economy Agenda, touching upon its policy priorities in the ­areas of free and open internet, trust and security, access and skills as well as innovation and emerging technologies. The presentation was followed by an open discussion in which TIM members voiced their priority issues. The event was hosted by GE. 

18 commerce germany December 2016 Innovation and Digitalization in Healthcare

Berlin, Oct. 13. Current developments in the matics) at the Federal Ministry of Health. Schenk healthcare system is facing. Digital technologies healthcare sector were the topics when the Busi- focused his speech on the issues of digitalization, and eHealth are essential elements for a sustain- ness of Healthcare Committee met with Oliver eHealth, pharma dialog and innovation funds. In- able healthcare system. In his speech, Schenk also Schenk, Head of Department Grundsatzfragen novation in the healthcare sector will be the key underlined that good transatlantic relations are a (fundamental issues of healthcare policy and tele- factor to help tackle the challenges the German significant driver for future healthcare solutions. 

A Union’s Perspective on TTIP Breakfast Briefing on Berlin, Oct. 4. Members of the TTIP Committee spective on TTIP. The subsequent discussion focused US Elections met with Konrad Klingenburg, Director of the on labor-related issues as well as the sticking points IG Metall representative office in Berlin. In his in- in the negotiations such as transparency, communi- Berlin, Oct. 14. In the run-up to the US presiden- troduction, Mr. Klingenburg shared the union’s per- cation, investment protection and timing.  tial elections, AmCham Germany and Edelman.ergo­­ invited politicians and representatives of busi- ness associations and companies to a Breakfast Briefing for an outlook on the campaign. Guest TIM COMMITTEE CONSULTS ON DIGITAL PLATFORMS speaker ­Steve Schmidt, Vice Chair Public Af- fairs, Edelman, Washington DC, (pictured below) Sept. The Telecommunications, Internet and Media (TIM) Com- briefly reported on the status of the campaign and mittee participated in a consultation process on Digital Platforms then turned to the issue of how US companies are opened by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and reacting to the developments in this presidential Energy as part of its Digital Strategy 2025. The position state- campaign. Schmidt remarked that the underlying ment addresses the definition of “digital platforms”, principles strong sentiment against free trade, international of good platform regulation, the expansion of gigabit networks institutions and immigration could severely harm and the modernization of law enforcement. American business interests. His presentation was followed by a lively discussion on possible trans- ▸ To view the position statement (in German) scan the QR code or visit amcham.de atlantic implications and take-aways for German businesses. The breakfast briefing was support- ed by Edelman.ergo and ­Cerberus Deutschland Beteiligungsberatung GmbH.  NEW POLICY POSITION PAPER

Oct. In the run-up to the German federal elections next fall, ­AmCham Germany has recently published its new policy position paper “Weichenstellungen für einen zukunftsfähigen Wirtschafts- standort Deutschland”. The paper lays out recommendations for the coming legislative period (2017-2021) addressing policy ar- eas such as research and development, energy, social and labor affairs, tax, digitalization, corporate responsibility and trade.

▸ To view the position paper (in German) scan the QR code or visit amcham.de © Marco Urban

December 2016 commerce germany 19 chamber news

Board of Directors Fall Meeting

Rüsselsheim, Sept. 15. The Board of Directors of AmCham Germany met for its fall meeting on the premises of Adam Opel AG in Rüsselsheim. During the formal part of the meeting, Eveline Y. Metzen was appointed as the new General Manager of AmCham Germany. Following the meeting, the board members enjoyed an inspiring presentation by Dr. Karl- Thomas Neumann, Chairman of the Management Board of Opel Group GmbH, GM Executive Vice President and President GM Europe. Neumann of- fered a look into the future of the global automo- tive industry and spoke about Opel’s development from an automotive manufacturer to a provider of connected mobility services. After this insight into the modern automo- tive industry, the board members toured the Opel Garage and enjoyed vintage Opel cars from the beginnings of the automobile era to racing cars, and special editions of more recent years. Pictured here is Neumann (left) with AmCham Germany President ­Berhard Mattes. Eveline Y. Metzen Welcomed as the New General Manager ­

At the fall meeting held by AmCham Germany‘s tor and proved successful in further develop- Board of Directors, Eveline Y. Metzen was ap- ing the organization. Prior to that, she served as pointed the new General Manager of the Cham- Executive Director of Amerika Haus Nordrhein-­ ber. She officially began her duties on Dec. 1, Westfalen in Cologne and as Program Director 2016, taking over from Andreas Povel, who has for US Programs at the Körber-Stiftung in Ham- decided not to extend his contract after three burg. Metzen holds an M.A. in North American years. Studies from the , and she also Metzen has a deep commitment to German- studied and taught in the United States at Ripon American relations and brings with her the nec- College in Wisconsin. In addition, she is a mem- essary professional experience and an exten- ber of the Board of the Airbus Foundation and sive transatlantic network. In 2011, she joined an alumna of the Baden-Badener Unternehmer­ ­Atlantik-Brücke in Berlin as Executive Direc- Gespräche.

New Video Series on Digitalization

What are the opportunities and challenges pre- talisierung” (Voices on Digitalization), in which sented by digitalization? Where is there poten- leading experts from business, government and tial for transatlantic cooperation? And how can society touch on these questions and more. Germany and the US reap the benefits of to- day’s digital era? AmCham Germany proudly ▸ To view the video, please scan the QR presents a new video series, “Stimmen zur Digi- code or visit our YouTube channel.

20 commerce germany December 2016 New Staffers

Christine Sonnet replaces Anna Schneider dur- Elizabeth Boshold is joining the Frankfurt office ing her maternity leave. As Specialist, Commu- as Specialist, Communications & Press Relations nications & Corporate Publishing in the Frank- taking over for Ines Ceylan during her maternity furt office. She will be responsible for AmCham leave. She studied law and political science and ­Germany's publications and manage social media worked as a research assistant at the law faculty activities. She holds a degree in Empirical Linguis- of the Ruhr University Bochum and as an editorial tics from Goethe-University in Frankfurt/M and assistant for the Ernst Strüngmann Forum before previously worked for the Hong Kong Trade De- joining AmCham Germany. Please contact her at velopment Council (HKTDC). She can be reached [email protected] at ­[email protected]

Masha Conquest takes over as Assistant, Mem- Daniela Butler has joined AmCham Germany's bership & Business Services in the Frankfurt office Frankfurt office in November as Specialist, Ac- while Alexandra Schulz is on maternity leave. She counting and Administration to support the team holds a degree in North American Studies and Po- with the member database and accounting tasks. litical Science from the John F. Kennedy Institute She has many years of professional experience in in Berlin and has worked as an administrative as- various parts of the accounting sector. Please con- sistant at the Graduate School of North Ameri- tact her at [email protected] can Studies (GSNAS). She can be contacted at ­­mconquest@­amcham.de

IN TUNE WITH THOUGHT LEADERS. THE NEW ONLINE MAGAZINE.

The digital transformation creates a powerful imperative for us to change our business thinking and activities. This magazine aims to give CxOs, entrepreneurs, and managers a space for refl ection, to provoke, and perhaps even trigger an argument and debate.

READ NOW transformationbeats.com powered by December 2015 commerce germany 21 event report

SEVENTH MITTELSTANDSFORUM

Stuttgart, Oct. 18. At the seventh AmCham Executive Advisor to the Chairman of the Super- ­Germany MittelstandsForum, a large number of visory Board at Festo­ AG; Dr. Andrej Heinke, representatives from German mid-size companies­ ­Director, Future Research and Technology Strategy and respected experts came together to exchange at Robert Bosch ­GmbH; and Henning Bauwe,­ experiences and focus on digitalization and smart Partner, Innovation & Strategic Growth Initia- manufacturing as a means to retain or even tives, KPMG AG, who provided the participants achieve market leadership. Among the speakers with helpful insights and best practices for future were Dr. ­Eberhard Veit, CEO 4.0-Veit GbR and digitalization strategies.

SMART MANUFACTURING PRE-ELECTION EVENT HANOVER

Dresden, Sept. 13. As connectivity transforms the Hanover, Oct. 11. This AmCham Germany Forum way we manufacture, consume and work, it af- shed light on the possible impact of the US presi- fects products and services as much as existing dential campaign on the transatlantic trade re- business models. Smart manufacturing – also lationship. Folker Hellmeyer, Chief Analyst at called Industry 4.0 – examined from the perspec- Bremer Landesbank, provided an inspiring view tive of applied research was the topic of this Busi- on what the two different possible outcomes ness Luncheon. Prof. Reimund Neugebauer, of the US presidential elections might mean for President of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, intro- the economies on both sides of the Atlantic. The duced the audience to the topic and a sample of PRE-ELECTION EVENT DÜSSELDORF speech was followed by a lively round of ques- applications from Fraunhofer research units. tions and discussion. Pictured here are (from Düsseldorf, Sept. 12. In the run-up to the US pres- left): Hellmeyer; Gudrun Benne, Managing Direc- idential elections, this AmCham Germany ­Forum tor of Industrieclub Hannover; and Prof. Ulrich von GOING INTERNATIONAL WITH CEMENT featured a panel discussion with Bernhard ­Jeinsen, Regional Committee Chair. Mattes, AmCham Germany President; and Dr. Stuttgart, Sept. 29. This Business Luncheon featured Andrew B. Denison, Director of Transatlantic a presentation by Dr. Bernd Scheifele, CEO of Networks; moderated by Dr. Henning Riecke, HeidelbergCement, on the development of the head of the program on “USA/Transatlantic Re- group from a regionally established southern Ger- lations” at the German Council on Foreign Rela- man cement company to a truly global player with tions (DGAP). The discussion explored the candi- nearly 60,000 employees and the global footprint dates’ campaigns and both sides of the American of production sites required in this industry. Pictured political spectrum. Pictured here are (from left): here are ­Scheifele (right) and Dr. Gerhard Wegen, Denison; Riecke; Lenka Heimöller, Deputy Head Baden-­Württemberg ­Regional Committee Chair. of DGAPforum NRW; and Mattes.

PRE-ELECTION EVENT MUNICH

Munich, Oct. 17. AmCham Regional Chapter Ba- mittee Chair; the discussion with , varia hosted another high-quality pre-election MdL (CSU); Prof. Michael Piatolo, MdL (Freie ­debate together with the US Consulate in Mu- Wähler); and Prof. Michael Zöller of the Univer- nich. After a warm welcome by Jennifer ­Gavito, sity of Politics in Munich, provided insight into Consul General at the US Consulate in Munich; the US political landscape and the differences of and Christian von Sydow, Bavaria Regional Com- the candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.

22 commerce germany December 2016 SUCCESSFUL SME EXPANSION

Erfurt, Sept. 22. This Business After Hours event focused on how small and medium-sized (SME) companies can successfully enter the US mar- ket. First, Markus Schmauder, Head of Inter- national Business Regio III at LBBW and former Head of Corporate and Institutional Banking in MEGATRENDS IN LOGISTICS the New York branch of the bank, introduced the audience to aspects of financing and hedg- Cologne, Oct. 11. Global logistics is a highly com- ing transactions with the US. Then participants petitive market. Price competition, emerging tech- heard the success story of RFID systems compo- nologies, new competitors and business models nents manufacturer microsensys­ GmbH. Rein- are challenges UPS has to face. At this Business hard Jurisch,­ Managing Director of microsen- Luncheon, Frank Sportolari, President of United sys GmbH, shared his experience in expanding DATA PROTECTION IN TIMES OF CHANGE Parcel Service Deutschland Inc. & Co. OHG, gave the company’s business across the Atlantic. guests an overview on how megatrends will re- Damir Agic, Project Manager North America Düsseldorf, Sept. 28. Data protection and cyber- shape logistics in the next decade. Pictured here at Thüringen International, presented various security are sensitive topics that require special are (from left): Uli Kessel, Managing Director of means of supporting the initiation of business attention from companies – especially in light the Rotonda Business Club; Sportolari; Hermann in the US. Participants left the event with a lot of of the latest legal changes. At this Expert Brief- ­Hollmann, Cologne Regional Committee Chair. new information and practical advice. ing Dr. Christian Schröder, Partner at Orrick, ­Herrington & Suttcliffe LLP, gave an update on the legal developments, while Wolfgang Straßer, GLOBAL OUTLOOK Managing Director of @-yet, provided the attend- ing managers with examples and hands-on advice Frankfurt/M, Sep. 13. Members and friends of on how to upgrade their IT security to the legally the Rhine-Main Regional Chapter were invited to required level. this well-attended Business Luncheon to hear Dr. Jörg Krämer, Chief Economist at ­Commerzbank AG, give an outlook on developments in the global economy and the international financial markets in light of recent political and econom- ic developments. Pictured here are (from left): Rhine-Main Regional Committee Chair Dr. Mark C. ­Hilgard; Krämer; and Andreas Povel, former ­General ­Manager, AmCham Germany.

CYBERSECURITY IN A DIGITAL WORLD

Hanover, Sept. 19. Participants of this AmCham topic of “NSA & Co.” highlighting that not only is Germany Forum came to hear a speech by Harald data espionage an increasing threat, but explain- Bunte (pictured in the middle) from the State Of- ing that cybercrime has turned into a globally at- GLOBALIZATION ON THE RETREAT? fice for the Protection of the Constitution on the tractive business. Berlin, Sept. 13. “Berlin Lounge”, a new ­AmCham Germany discussion event series turned to the question of whether globalization might be in a mode of retreat – particularly in light of recent phenomena such as Brexit, US presidential can- didate Trump and the German right-wing party “Alternative für Deutschland” (AfD). Bertrand­ Benoit, Germany Bureau Chief of the Wall Street Journal, introduced the topic while Ludwig von Reiche, Chair of AmCham Germany’s Entrepre- neurship Committee, moderated the lively dis- cussion. Pictured here are Benoit (right) and von Reiche.

December 2016 commerce germany 23 event report

INTERNATIONAL TAX HIGHLIGHTS FORMING THE FUTURE

Frankfurt/M, Oct. 4. At this event in a series of Jörg M. Mössner, Member of the PwC Scientific Stuttgart, Oct. 12. At this Business Luncheon, Expert Briefings with PricewaterhouseCoopers Advisory Board, explored the impact of two ­BEPS Stefan Klebert, CEO of Schuler AG, shared the (PwC) experts, participants learned about the im- action points on German corporate financing and story of this “hidden champion” metal forming plications of the OECD initiative on Base Erosion foreign direct investments, particularly cross-bor- company and the challenges it encountered on and Profit Shifting (BEPS). In their presentations, der deposits and the repatriation of capital. Pic- its journey to become an international player and Christof K. Letzgus, Partner at PwC, and Prof. tured here are Letzgus (left) and Mössner (right). leading innovator. The lunch and speech were fol- lowed by a lively Q&A session. Pictured here are (from left): Bernd Schäfer-Surén of Le Méridien Stuttgart; Klebert; and Dr. Gerhard Wegen, Baden- Württemberg Regional Committee Chair.

INTEGRATING BELTS AND HOSES

Hanover, Sept. 29. At this AmCham Germany ­Forum, Hans-Jürgen Duensing, Member of the Executive Board of Continental AG and CEO of ContiTech AG; and Jim Hill, Head of Conti- Tech North America, shared how Continental ac- quired and integrated rubber company Veyance LUXURY AUTOMOBILES Technologies to extend its worldwide industrial business. To Continental, this was the most sig- Stuttgart, Oct. 25. Around 50 guests at this Schmidt and Peter Haupt, both Senior Rep- nificant acquisition in recent corporate history. ­Business After Hours event met at the Center of resentatives of Daimler AG, welcomed the guests With its production focus on belts and hoses, Vey- Excellence of Daimler AG to tour the plant where before guiding the groups through the Excellence ance complemented ContiTech in formerly under- Daimler displays its most unique Mercedes Benz Center. Pictured here is one group of participants represented markets, particularly in the US and luxury automobile configurations. Alexander following the tour. Latin America.

AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

Düsseldorf, Sept. 1. Participants at this Busi- ness Luncheon listened to a speech by Thomas­ Schnalke, Managing Director of Flughafen Düs- seldorf GmbH, on “DUS Airport – ­Infrastructure and Organziation”, followed by a round of questions and a lively discussion. Pictured here are (from left): Michael Kleinbongartz, CEO of ­Kukko tool factory; Dr. Alexander Schröder- Frerkes, North Rhine-Westphalia Regional Com- mittee Chair; Schnalke; Werner L. Kanthak, AmCham Germany North Rhine-Westphalia Rep- resentative; Petra Wassner, CEO of ­­­­­NRW.­INVEST ­GmbH; and Dr. Jörg Dederichs, Managing Direc- tor Industrial Markets at 3M Deutschland GmbH.

24 commerce germany December 2016 new members

From September to December 2016

CORPORATE MEMBERS Aon Risk Solutions Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP PricewaterhouseCoopers AG Rüdiger Brenneisen Jochen Ellrott Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft AT Parts Germany GmbH Matthias Koch Marko Schipper Mehmet Alper Özsevim Audatex-Solera Companies Dr. Annedore Streyl CEO Stephen Longmore QVC Handel LLC & Co. KG Leverkusen Generali Lebensversicherung AG Gina Deeble Audi AG Christine Hopfinger Markus Staude-Skowronek Brand-Weber Consulting André Konsbruck Cornelia Brand-Weber Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP RBC Capital Markets Owner Bank of America Rechtsanwälte/Lawyers The Royal Bank of Canada Berlin Merrill Lynch International Ltd. Dr. Dirk Oberbracht Nils Wittenhagen Armin von Falkenhayn CHRISTIANSEN – David Schraven Goldman Sachs AG RBS RoeverBroennerSusat GmbH & Co. Reinventing Organizations Nicole Mommsen KG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft Frauke Christiansen BDO Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH Steuerberatungsgesellschaft Owner Dr. Martin Schulte HEINZ-GLAS GmbH & Co. KGaA Felix Kölbel Bad Nauheim Alexander Heinz BNP Paribas S.A. Jens Peter Plachetka SAP SE CUBE GmbH Niederlassung Deutschland Dr. Pablo Mentzinis Dr. Torsten Oelke Laurent Couraudon Hewlett-Packard GmbH CEO Claus Peter Dietzell Dennis Grabherr Seeber + Partner GmbH Berlin Vlassios Papadopoulos Frank Dietrich Peter Reese HSBC Trinkaus & Burkhardt AG Felbel Consulting Wolfgang Reiser Ralf Wehner Teradata GmbH Change Management – People Urs Waschkeit Gerhard Otterbach Development Communication Kienbaum Consultants Dr. Marion Felbel Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH International GmbH terry barr sales Owner Dr. Wolfgang Baiker Henning Böhne Mark Hokanson Wiesbaden Dr. Gregor Strauch KIRCHHOFF Automotive GmbH The Boston Consulting Group GmbH Gebrüder Dorfner GmbH & Co. Kaolin- Boeing Operations International, Inc. Tanja Dreilich Dr. Wolfgang Dörner und Kristallquarzsand-Werke KG Johannes Ropers Dr. Erich Oetzel Christina Wills KPMG AG The Walt Disney Company CEO Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft (Germany) GmbH Hirschau BridgehouseLaw LLP Prof. Dr. Kai C. Andrejewski Uli Müller Monika Harjo Ernst-August Baldamus HEINZ-GLAS GmbH & Co. KGa Christoph Beumer Thermo Fisher Scientific Frank Martin Burson-Marsteller GmbH Karl Braun Germany BV & Co. KG CFO Christoph Schupp Günter Breuer Dr. Peter Schüßler Kleintettau Andreas Glunz CUBE GmbH Angelika Huber-Straßer thyssenkrupp AG Innside Frankfurt Ostend Christian Tegge Holger Kneisel Andreas Ruks Andreas Spitzner Sven-Olaf Leitz General Manager Derag Livinghotels AG + Co. KG Lars-Alexander Meixner TRANSEARCH International Frankfurt/M Klaus Pfeiffer Ulrich Pukropski Deutschland GmbH Christian Specht Herbert Prötzl KSB INTAX von Bismarck DIN e.V. Marc Ufer Rechtsanwälte Wirtschaftsprüfer Rüdiger Marquardt Frank Wiethoff Uber Germany GmbH Steuerberater PartGmbB Marc Wittenberg Roland Werner Jonathan Branch dorma+kaba Holding GmbH & Co. Volker Zieske Associate Partner KGaA Germany UBS Deutschland AG Hannover Jörg Henke Kroll Ontrack GmbH Michael Trümper Nicolaus Susta Mozarter Salzburg Dürr Systems AG USU Software AG Jochen Berns Dr. Jaroslaw Baginski Latham & Watkins LLP Udo Strehl CEO Attorneys Rechtsanwälte Planegg EATON Industries GmbH Dr. Harald Selzner White & Case LLP Manuel Tschauner Dr. Rainer Traugott Patrick Narr DELEGATED MEMBERS Dr. Georg Weidenbach ElringKlinger AG Xerox GmbH Accenture Matt McKinnon Lilly Deutschland GmbH Stephan Paulus Denis Gassmann Nicole Lotte Weichelt Ernst & Young GmbH Adecco Germany Holding SA & Co. KG Wirtschaftsprüfungsgesellschaft Monsanto Agrar Deutschland GmbH INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS Dr. Thorsten Hübschen Senator h.c. Michael Marbler Dr. Thoralf Küchler Dagmar Blume Airbus Defence and Space GmbH ExxonMobil Central Europe Noerr LLP Anja Franke Jane Penelope Basson Holding GmbH Dr. Anke Meier Dr. Holger Gauß Dr. Annette Flormann-Pfaff Ralf Gerbershagen Allen & Overy LLP Ronny A. Hauck Plexus Deutschland GmbH Alexander Graf Matuschka Dr. Astrid Krüger Jessica Bode Dr. Hans-Rudolf Röhm Fondsdepot Bank GmbH Daniel-Nicolas Seidl Dr. Christian Dicke

December 2016 commerce germany 25 chamber news imprint commerce germany  ACC Verlag & Services GmbH We mourn the loss of our long-standing individual member Eveline Y. Metzen, General Manager Börsenplatz 7-11, 60313 Frankfurt/M

Prof. Dieter Feddersen,  Editorial and business offices Anna Katharina Schneider, Patricia Limburg who passed away in July at the age of 81. T +49 69 929104-41, +49 69 929104-40 F +49 69 929104-11 He is in our thoughts. E [email protected], [email protected] W www.amcham.de

American Chamber of Commerce in Germany  Editorial team Karen Herzog (verantwortlich) Representing FRANKFURT BUSINESS MEDIA GmbH – Der F.A.Z.-Fachverlag, Frankfurt/M

 Graphic designer We mourn the loss of our individual member of 23 years Katharina Doering Representing FRANKFURT BUSINESS MEDIA GmbH – Der F.A.Z.-Fachverlag, Frankfurt/M Willis Eayrs,  Advertising administration Sabine Karbowy who passed away unexpectedly in August at the age of 58. Wilrijkplatz 3, 65527 Niedernhausen He was an active member of the Baden-Württemberg  Communications Committee Carl Graf von Hohenthal, Co-Chair Regional Chapter. His presence at events will be missed. Brunswick Group GmbH William Hood, Co-Chair Commpanions Werbeagentur GmbH American Chamber of Commerce in Germany  Photo credits Cover: Ina Strohbücker; S. 4: © ggimage/fotolia.com; p.27: Roman Milert/iStock/Thinkstock; vichie81/iStock/ Thinkstock; Maria_Lapina/iStock/Thinkstock; axelbueckert/iStock/Thinkstock; ChrisHurtt/iStock/Think- We mourn the loss of our member stock; Rawpixel Ltd/iStock/Thinkstock; peshkov/iStock/ Thinkstock; opolja/iStock/Thinkstock; RudyBalasko/iStock/ Stephan Rasche, Thinkstock; arinahabich/iStock/Thinkstock commerce germany is the official periodical of the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany e.V. It is published for the who passed away unexpectedly in July at the age of 58. Chamber by ACC Verlag & Services GmbH. Opinions expressed He and his family are in our thoughts. in articles are not necessarily those of the Chamber or of ACC Verlag & Services GmbH or of FRANKFURT BUSINESS MEDIA GmbH – Der F.A.Z.-Fachverlag. Contributor opinions are not American Chamber of Commerce in Germany necessarily shared by the ­editor. All members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany e.V. receive one free copy of the publication. Copyright by American Chamber of ­Commerce in ­Germany e.V. All rights reserved. The ­contents of this ­publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the ­consent of the copyright owner.

Alle Rechte vorbehalten. Nachdruck, auch auszugs- NEXT ISSUE OF COMMERCE GERMANY: March 16, 2017 weise, nur mit ausdrücklicher Genehmigung des ­Verlags.  Printing ADVERTISING CLOSING DATE: February 16, 2017 Boschen Offsetdruck GmbH, Frankfurt/M Our topics will include: ISSN 0010-2857

Money and Law – Change through Digitalization  Index of companies change2target GmbH 15 Special Report: Thanksgiving 2016 and New Year's Receptions 2017 Deutsche Telekom AG 7 Squire Patton Boggs 14 Teleperformance Germany S. à r. l. & Co. KG 6

Contact:  Index of advertisers ARNECKE SIBETH 15 Sabine Karbowy Daimler AG 2 T +49 6127 9993150 Contact: goetzpartners Beratungs- und Beteiligungs GmbH 21 M +49 171 7579768 Barbara Böhnke NRW.INVEST GmbH 28 F +49 6127 9993151 M +49 178 7988882 PCS Schleßing GmbH 3 Thermo Fisher Scientific GmbH 13 E [email protected] E [email protected]

26 commerce germany December 2016 chamber calendar

AmCham Germany January 1 January 18 2017 event highlights New Year’s Day New Year's Reception Please see www.amcham.de Federal holiday in the US for the latest updates

Light blue = events wholly or partially in English Stuttgart

January 19 January 24 January 27 January 27

New Year's Reception New Year's Reception New Year's Reception New Year's Reception

Alexander Graf Lambsdorff Michael Groschek , Chairman, Vorsitzender der FDP Minister für Bauen, Atlantik-Brücke e.V. im EU Parlament Wohnen, Stadtentwicklung und Verkehr des Landes Nordrhein-Westfalen

Munich Düsseldorf Frankfurt/M Dresden © 2016 Alexander Graf Lambsdorff Alexander Graf © 2016

January 31 January 31 February 7 February 15

New Year's Reception New Year's Reception Business After Hours Washington’s Birthday (Presidents Day) Bernhard Mattes Joachim Dorfs Chairman of the Chefredakteur Federal holiday in the US Management Board Stuttgarter Zeitung Ford-Werke GmbH

Hanover Erfurt Stuttgart

March 6 March 9 April 20

Business Luncheon Business After Hours Business Luncheon

Jeremy Morgan TRUMPF GmbH + Co. KG Jens Bischof Vice President Diabetes Executive Vice President International Sales and Eli Lilly and Company CCO Hub Frankfurt Deutsche AG

Frankfurt/M Ditzingen Frankfurt/M

May 19 May 30 July 4

114th Annual Membership Memorial Day Independence Day Meeting Federal holiday in the US Federal holiday in the US

Frankfurt/M

December 2016 commerce germany 27 MORE THAN A PROMISE. Thanks to Harting’s invention, the smart factory is becoming reality. The modular manufacturing line is already capable of meeting individual customer requirements. This is just one example of many innovations from North Rhine-Westphalia | NRW, the industrial heartland of Germany. Here, companies, startups, science and research are jointly transforming industrial manufacturing. Why? Because this is where strong networks expedite innovation transfer. Interested? www.nrwinvest.com