Dirk Holtbrügge

Prof. Dr. Dirk Holtbrügge is a Professor and Holder of the Chair of Business Administration, especially International Management at Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU). He serves as Dean for International Affairs of the Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences and is jointly responsible for the department's MBA program design. His academic journey began at the University of Dortmund where he studied economics and social sciences from 1983 to 1989, earning his doctorate in 1995 and habilitation in 2000.

Prof. Holtbrügge's research focuses on management in multinational corporations, intercultural management research, management in emerging markets (particularly China, India, and Russia), international human resource management, and corporate social and environmental responsibility. His work demonstrates a strong emphasis on practical applications through numerous case studies of German multinational corporations operating globally.

His recent publications (2024-2025) reveal a growing focus on sustainability in international business, corporate social responsibility in challenging contexts, and the complexities of internationalization strategies across diverse industries. The research shows particular attention to German companies expanding into emerging markets and navigating cultural differences.

• Listed in Handelsblatt rankings of 2010, 2012, and 2014 as one of the leading business economists in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland
• Listed in Wirtschaftswoche rankings of 2019 and 2022 as one of the leading business economists
• Listed as one of the top 2% most cited scientists in 2020 in Stanford University's Top 2 Percent Scientists list

Prof. Holtbrügge maintains strong connections with industry through numerous case studies and collaborative research projects. His position as Dean for International Affairs reflects his commitment to fostering global academic partnerships and developing international business education programs. He has undertaken numerous teaching and research visits worldwide, including in China, France, Great Britain, India, Japan, Russia, South Africa, and the USA, enriching his practical understanding of international business challenges.