Frederik Wirtz has been working in management consulting since 2015, currently holding the roles of Principal and Co-Lead of the Financial Services Practice at Infront.
He advises clients across the entire value chain, successfully implementing consulting projects ranging from strategy development, marketing and sales management to the design of new products, services, and business models, as well as agile transformation. He is an excellent expert in the transformation of banks and insurance companies towards modern, digital service providers and has deep insights into the success factors of digital transformation.
„Die Spezialisierung ab der Karrierestufe „Projektleiter“ ist wichtig, um branchenseitiges Fachwissen sowie ein nachhaltiges Kontaktnetzwerk aufbauen zu können.“
– Frederik Wirtz
From banking to international business studies
My professional journey began with an apprenticeship in banking, where I gained first valuable experience in the financial sector. Subsequently, I pursued a degree in international business studies, specializing in strategic marketing and finance. Thus, I not only had the opportunity to build a profound foundation in business administration but also to gain intercultural experience in England and Spain and deepen my language skills. Throughout this academic journey I engaged in various internships, ranging from a global consulting firm to a Spanish "Internet of Things" startup, that aroused a special interest for digitalization that continues to drive me in my professional career to this day.
My entry into strategy consulting
After graduating, my goal was clear: I wanted to work in strategy consulting. However, I wasn't just looking for a job, but for a role that offered me the opportunity to pursue my interests and to take on responsibility quickly. This aspiration led me to "Homburg & Partner”, a hidden champion consulting firm for Strategy, Marketing and Sales, founded by the renowned marketing professor, Prof. Dr. Homburg. There, I quickly immersed myself in the world of consulting: Excel and PowerPoint became my best friends; from Mondays to Thursdays, I flew to client sites for interviews, analyses, workshops, and management presentations; on Social Fridays in my home office in Munich, I worked on internal business development topics, wrote proposals, and socialized with colleagues.
From hidden champion to hidden champion
After about two years, I embarked on a new chapter by relocating from Munich to Hamburg. Transitioning to a strategy consulting firm with an office in Hamburg coupled with the desire to deepen my expertise in digital transformation, I came across Infront. The transition represented a logical progression in my professional journey, marrying my strategic acumen with a deeper focus on digital topics – from hidden champion for Strategy, Marketing and Sales to hidden champion for Digitalization. The combination of a compact company size with headquarters right in the heart of Hamburg, the strategic focus, and an equally professional and likable public image convinced me.
My start at Infront
From my very first day, Infront offered me a diverse range of tasks and project opportunities steepening my learning curve. Swiftly integrated into the team, I was encouraged to contribute my own ideas. Engaging directly with clients enabled me to rapidly develop on-the-job, always backed by the expertise and support of experienced colleagues. In terms of content, we focus on strategic market issues, such as business strategy, digital business models, the use of AI, the optimization of customer loyalty/acquisition or the ideal organizational setups. Our aim is to work closely with clients helping them identify the potential of digitalization and use it effectively to strengthen their competitiveness.
Specialization and the journey to principal Principal
Over this course, I gradually took on more and more responsibility across a wide range of complex tasks and projects. From strategy workshops at the executive level to large-scale projects impacting several hundred customer employees. Naturally you encounter many challenges. Due to additional qualifications as a certified Scrum Master and Change Manager, I lay great emphasis on the feasible implementation of innovative solutions right from the project start.
Driven by my background in banking and diverse project assignments at insurance companies, I maintained a focus on the financial sector. Specializing beyond the "Project Manager" role is pivotal in consulting allowing to build up deep industry expertise and cultivate a sustainable network. As a Principal, my responsibilities now span a wide spectrum including the management of large-scale projects, project acquisition, and fostering enduring client relationships. Additionally, I take care of the further development of our consulting portfolio and take great pleasure in mentoring young consultants.
Flat hierarchies and friendship coupled with highest quality standards
What makes my job special is the mix of a personal work environment characterized by flat hierarchies, enjoyment, friendship, and an unwavering commitment to highest quality standards. Every day presents new challenges to collaborate with clients and celebrate shared successes. As Principal and Co-Lead of the Financial Services Practice, I am grateful for the opportunity to channel my passion for digitalization and the financial services sector in such a dynamic and demanding environment.
