From Würzburg to the World

What do graduates of Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU) do for a living? In order to introduce students to different perspectives, Michaela Thiel, Managing Director of the central alumni network, regularly interviews selected alumni.

This time, Sabrina Hilscher answered her questions. She studied Business Management at JMU and currently works as a project manager at ZF Race Engineering GmbH. The company's headquarters are in Schweinfurt.

How would you describe your work to a layperson?

I work at ZF Race Engineering GmbH, a subsidiary of ZF AG. We supply components, systems, driveline and chassis technology for motorsport and small series production, for example for Formula 1, WRC, DTM, but also for OEMs and automotive customers. We also offer engineering, consulting and testing services.

As a project manager, I am responsible for ensuring that the requirements, scope, resources, budget and timing of the projects assigned to me are defined and adhered to. It is also important that the necessary approvals and documentation are carried out to ensure state-of-the-art product and system development. All project work is carried out in close co-operation within the team and normally also with the customer.

Are you a racing enthusiast yourself?

I used to follow the major events at most, but here too I followed the results more than the races themselves. Now that I am confronted with racing series and supercars from small and large car manufacturers every day and therefore know my way around better than before, my interest has also grown.

What do you particularly love about your job?

What I particularly love about my job is the variety of projects with their individual requirements and challenges. There is something new to learn with every project. I also enjoy working with colleagues from different areas to achieve a common goal.

Which skill learnt during your studies do you need most in your job?

I need communication and organisational skills the most.

What is your favourite memory of your time at university?

Würzburg and the surrounding area in general. The area is very beautiful, you can do all sorts of different things and the city is full of life, especially in the warmer months.

Thank you very much for the interview.

Are you not yet a member of the university's alumni network? Then you are cordially invited to register via the network's website. You can also find the previously published interviews with JMU alumni and alumnae on the network's website.