Event series "Upheavals, new beginnings, breakthroughs - new perspectives for the economy and society"
The economy and society are characterised by major upheavals: Globalisation, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, the climate crisis and the changing world of work. Conventional concepts and institutions have begun to falter. It is often unclear what the future holds. The result is often uncertainty.
New concepts in companies and organisations are looking for breakthroughs: Sustainability, New Work, Purpose, Social Entrepreneurship, Economy for the Common Good. What is needed are game changers, role models and encouragers.
In this series of events, we would like - together with experts and representatives from companies - to shed light on the consequences for companies and the economy and discuss ways to overcome them.
Human Resource Management in a Time of Change: Insights into a New World of Work
On 24 June 2026, the 9th Landshut Business Management Forum took place under the title ‘The Changing World of Work – Challenges and Prospects for Human Resource Management’. Representatives from the business world joined lecturers in discussing a key question: How can human resources management function effectively today, given that the operating environment is changing at an ever-faster pace?
AI has long since become part of everyday life
There was a consensus that artificial intelligence (AI) has long since become part of everyday life in many companies. The use of AI in recruitment was discussed in particular detail – from automated pre-selection to data-driven HR decisions. At the same time, it was emphasised that personal contact continues to play an important role in the application process and in staff retention.
Practical examples from the field
The event was opened by Prof. Dr. Alexander Kumpf, Dean of the Business School. He emphasised the importance of close collaboration between Landshut University of Applied Sciences and the business community in order to prepare students for real-world challenges.
In his keynote speech, Andreas Schwaiger (Texas Instruments) spoke about transformative trends and future skills. In his overview of the current labour market situation, it quickly became clear that the demands placed on employees have shifted, particularly towards digital skills and greater agility.
Joining him in the subsequent panel discussion were: Anna Sponsel (BMW Landshut plant), Christiane Parzefall (Schneider Electric), Prof. Dr. Valentina Speidel (Landshut University of Applied Sciences, Business School)
Moderator: Prof. Dr. Robin Hau (Landshut University of Applied Sciences, Business School)
Round-Table Marketing, Communications & Human Resources
What are the current challenges facing marketing, corporate communications and human resources management? How are the upheavals in the economy and society affecting companies, associations and public institutions? This was the subject of a round-table discussion on 28 April 2026 with practitioners at the Faculty of Business Administration – Business School.
The following were identified as key tasks:
- The systematic implementation of generative AI into day-to-day business operations.
- The structured use of data for business processes.
- The impact of generative AI on job opportunities for those starting their careers.
- Intergenerational dialogue with university graduates and younger staff.
- Further development of internal and external communication strategies.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all participants. Over the coming months, we will be developing further collaboration initiatives and implementing them in partnership with regional business partners.
8th Landshut Business Management Forum: Cooperation instead of conflict
Lively discussion about differences between generations at the 8th Landshut Business Management Forum
Around 80 entrepreneurs and managers as well as lecturers and students from Landshut University of Applied Sciences Business School discussed how companies can better understand differences between the generations - Boomers, Gen X, Y and Z - and avoid conflicts at the 8th Landshut Business Management Forum with the topic "Cooperation instead of conflict – Psychological ways to bridge generations in companies".
Prof. Dr. Robin Hau, Professor of Business Psychology, showed that the differences between the generations are often smaller than they appear. The real difference lies in the change in values. The younger generations are fundamentally no different to previous generations, but social values have changed. Managers should ask less about differences and understand more about what has changed in the world of work. Honest interest, sincere appreciation, authenticity and listening are crucial.
Prof. Dr. Josef Fischer, Professor of Communication and Consumer Psychology, emphasised that teams benefit from differences. Diverse competences support innovation, while the formation of groups is detrimental. Good leadership ensures that all team members pursue common goals and recognise different skills. Professional discussions would promote innovation, whereas emotional conflicts could damage teams.
The subsequent discussion with guests and entrepreneurs from the business world showed how important clear communication and respect are when working together. It is particularly important to observe these principles when it comes to company succession in order to ensure a harmonious transition.
Afterwards, the lively discussion continued over snacks and drinks - always under the motto: "Talk to each other, not about each other."
