Prof. Dr. Anabel Ternès von Hattburg is one of the leading sustainability, innovation, and leadership experts. As CEO of Sustain Plus, Managing Director of the Berlin SRH Institute for Innovation and Sustainability Management, and President of the Club of Budapest Germany, she combines scientific expertise with entrepreneurial practice. Her diverse experiences in international management positions and think-tank activities make her one of the thought leaders for sustainable transformation.
We welcome her as a keynote speaker for Envoria Connect 2025 on May 7, 2025, in Heidelberg on the topic „Zukunft beginnt im Kopf: Mit einem Mindshift neu aufgestellt für Leadership, Innovation & Nachhaltigkeit“ (English: “The future starts in your mind: repositioned for leadership, innovation & sustainability with a mind-shift”)!
Prof. Dr. Ternès von Hattburg, you have had an impressive career as an entrepreneur, scientist, futurologist, and sustainability expert. What inspired you personally to engage so intensively with the topics of innovation, leadership, and sustainability?
Prof. Dr. Ternès von Hattburg: “My motivation comes from two main sources: firstly, my personal conviction that we as a society have a responsibility to develop sustainable solutions for the challenges of our time. But also my childhood enthusiasm for technical innovations, coding, and the possibility of using technology to create solutions for a sustainable world of tomorrow that is worth living in. Thirdly, my many years of experience in business and science have shown me that innovation and leadership are crucial levers for initiating sustainable transformations. My goal is to build bridges between these worlds and actively inspire people to shape the future with a new mindset.”
You are involved in numerous organizations, from Plant-for-the-Planet to the Club of Budapest and the UN Ocean Decade. How do these activities influence your work and thinking?
Prof. Dr. Ternès von Hattburg: “These commitments enable me to take an interdisciplinary look at sustainability. They show me the importance of joined-up thinking and action. Through the exchange with international thought leaders, scientists, and change-makers, I get valuable input for my work and see which solutions work in practice. I incorporate these insights into my entrepreneurial and scientific activities, but also into my social engagement, to drive systemic change.”
You will open Envoria Connect 2025 with the keynote “The future begins in the mind: a mindshift for leadership, innovation and sustainability”. Without giving too much away: What do you mean by a “mind-shift,” and why is it more important than ever for companies today – especially with regard to innovation and leadership?
Prof. Dr. Ternès von Hattburg: “A mindshift means a profound change in how we think and act. It's about questioning old thought patterns and developing new, sustainable strategies. Companies that make this change recognize risks earlier and see opportunities to create innovative solutions. Especially in times of uncertainty and global challenges, we need courageous leaders who not only react but proactively shape.”
A sustainable change begins in the mind – this also applies to ESG reporting. How can a mind-shift help companies see ESG reporting not only as a duty but also as a strategic opportunity for sustainable innovation and competitiveness?
Prof. Dr. Ternès von Hattburg: “ESG reporting is much more than a regulatory requirement – it is a valuable opportunity for self-assessment and strategic development. A mind-shift in this area means seeing sustainability criteria not as a burden but as an opportunity for increasing efficiency, promoting innovation, and building trust with stakeholders. Companies that see ESG as an integral part of their strategy will be better positioned in the market in the long term and will ensure their future viability.
As a futurologist, you analyze long-term developments. What sustainability, innovation, and leadership trends should companies be aware of today?
Prof. Dr. Ternès von Hattburg: “Three major trends will have a particular impact on companies in the coming years:
- Regenerative business models – companies that go beyond sustainability and actively contribute to the regeneration of ecosystems will be more successful in the long term.
- Artificial intelligence for sustainability – AI will play a central role in using resources more efficiently and driving sustainable innovation.
- New leadership – this is about value-oriented, resilient, and empathetic leadership that focuses on collaboration, diversity, and long-term strategies.
Finally, a brief outlook: What can Envoria Connect 2025 participants look forward to in your keynote address? Is there a core message or perhaps a surprise that you want to reveal now?
Prof. Dr. Ternès von Hattburg: “Participants can look forward to an inspiring keynote that not only provides food for thought but also gives specific recommendations for action in their own business context. My goal is to show that sustainable innovation and leadership are not abstract concepts but very practical strategies for long-term success. Anyone who is familiar with my books, my radio show, my keynotes, and my press articles knows that I stand for exciting, action-oriented storytelling and that I engage the participants – to give them something they can use in their work in a very practical way.”
Thank you very much, Prof. Dr. Anabel Ternès von Hattburg, for these exciting insights! After this interview, we are looking forward all the more to your keynote at “Envoria Connect 2025” and to welcoming you on our stage.