As part of our "5 Questions for..." series, we talked to Leander Herzog about his values, professional and private interests, and the most important lessons he has learned along his career path so far.
Many people have taken the precaution of canceling their long-awaited summer vacation abroad. But Mediterranean vacation feelings can also arise in Switzerland - especially if you let the fresh wind blow around your nose while boating. One of the most beautiful landscapes to be on the water is Lake Lucerne. Surrounded by mountains and picturesque bays, the peace and nature can be enjoyed perfectly.
Our interview partner of the month was born with a love of water. Born into the Herzog family of entrepreneurs, who founded the company in Lucerne in 1856 and today, 164 years later, with the Herzog Marine Center AG in Alpnachstad runs the most modern shipyard in Switzerland. Over the decades, they have developed into a leading company in the Swiss water sports scene, known far beyond the country's borders.
Tradition and modernity - they often remain irreconcilable opposites for family businesses. But when the balancing act succeeds and the long-standing family tradition is combined with innovation, the challenge is seen as an opportunity. Today, Leander Herzog is already the sixth generation to run the tradition-rich company together with his brother Ivo Herzog. As part of our "5 Questions for..." series, we talked to Leander Herzog about his professional and private interests and the most valuable advice on his career path so far. Learn more about him in our interview of the month.
Mr. Herzog, if you had taken a different path when you were younger, what would you have become?
"I was infected with the water sports virus at birth. The path I took was therefore predetermined, so to speak. Of course, there were always other professions that fascinated me and still do today. I can name two of them: First, I always admire those gifted chefs in top gastronomy, who on the one hand have an incredible talent for organization, but on the other hand are true artists with ingenious creative and of course tasty dishes. Secondly, of course, I would have loved to become a professional soccer player. However, apart from a lack of talent, my knees did not cooperate as I would have liked...".
What is your favorite way to start your day?
"Shower, get dressed, enjoy an espresso and read the newspaper. Top informed into the new day!"
What does success mean to you personally?
"Success means achieving goals that you set yourself. I have achieved many of them, but unfortunately some have not. But basically I am very satisfied with what I have achieved and with my life. Professionally, I am proud to be able to run our family business in the 6th generation together with my brother and to develop it further, personally I am grateful to have a great partner at my side and a hard-working, intelligent son. Of course I would like him to continue our family tradition one day, maybe even together with his cousin - that would be the greatest success. But I consciously leave him the choice and freedom to decide for himself what his future will look like. After all, I also had that choice when I was young."
What would you work for free for a week?
"I have always been a club person, have been involved in the local football club as well as in the guild or a service club (Roundtable) and other associations. Ultimately, there is always a social commitment here. I am very happy to show solidarity, if it is not imposed by the state".
What was the best professional advice you ever received?
"Our family business (founded in 1856) has weathered many storms, experienced ups and downs. My father and mother in particular have impressively modeled for me to remain modest despite growing success, never to take off and become cocky, and not to burden future generations, but to support them."
We would like to thank Mr. Herzog for his contribution to this article. This interview was conducted in writing.
Editor: Neslihan Steiner
Batterman Consulting Basel AG
Executive Search,
Byfangweg 1a, CH-4051 Basel
T +41 58 680 55 55
basel@batterman.ch
