Thomas Brunner-Kirchmair

Thomas Brunner-Kirchmair is an Associate Professor at the Institute for Corporate Finance within the Business School at Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU). He maintains his office in House of Schools 1 on the 4th floor (H1.04.24) and offers consultation hours by appointment. His academic career at JKU shows steady progression from student assistant (2008-2022), to University Assistant (2015-2020), to Assistant Professor (2020), and currently Associate Professor.

His educational background includes a Diploma in Business Education from JKU Linz (2007-2012) and diploma studies in Economics at JKU Linz with a semester abroad at EBSL (2006-2007). Prior to his university education, he completed community service (2006) and obtained his Matura at the Traun Commercial Academy (1986). He was born on September 28 in Linz.

Brunner-Kirchmair's research focuses primarily on corporate finance with specialized expertise in mergers & acquisitions, corporate governance, and financial risk management. His work frequently examines the intersection of these areas, particularly in family businesses and banking sectors. He has developed significant research on CEO characteristics and their impact on business decisions, as well as the effects of external events like the COVID-19 pandemic on risk management practices. His research methodology combines empirical analysis with theoretical frameworks, often drawing on European and specifically Austrian business contexts.

His publication record demonstrates consistent productivity and relevance, with multiple publications appearing in 2024-2025. The research trends show increasing focus on behavioral aspects of finance, digital transformation impacts on M&A, and risk management adaptations to contemporary challenges.

His scientific recognition includes notable awards:

• Raiffeisenlandesbank Upper Austria Science Prize 2019 for his dissertation on corporate governance and M&A performance
• VKB Science Prize 2018 for the same dissertation work
• VKB Science Prize 2012 for his diploma thesis on Austrian M&A success
• Youth Prize of the City of Traun 2009

Beyond his dissertation work, Brunner-Kirchmair has established himself as a collaborative researcher, frequently working with colleagues like Helmut Pernsteiner and Eva Wagner. His professional experience includes strategic risk management at Oberbank AG (2014-2015) and retail marketing specialization at Intersport Austria GmbH (2008-2012), which informs his practical approach to academic research. His current research appears to be well-funded and institutionally supported through the Institute for Corporate Finance, with particular emphasis on European banking, family business resilience, and sustainable M&A practices.

He appears to be actively involved in both theoretical and applied research, bridging academic insights with practical business applications, particularly within the Austrian and broader European business context.