In our occasional series “Success made in Hof,” we’re featuring Ashwanth Krishna Vijay today. The 31-year-old from Coimbatore, India, studied in the Master of Business Administration program at Hof University of Applied Sciences from 2017 to 2019 and completed his MBA under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Daniel Werner. Today, he works in Columbus, Ohio, for the global company GEALAN.
There, he is responsible for digitalization and business development at the company’s first North American subsidiary. His responsibilities include driving digital initiatives, supporting the company’s market entry, advancing growth strategies, and further expanding the company’s presence in the North American market.
Mr. Vijay, could you tell us a bit about your career path after graduation?
“Gladly. I began my professional career in April 2018 at GEALAN Fenster-Systeme GmbH in Oberkotzau—initially as an intern. At the same time, I wrote my master’s thesis in collaboration with the company. After successfully completing my thesis, I was given the opportunity to continue my work as part of an 18-month trainee program. During this time, I worked in several departments and gained valuable insights into the company’s processes, workflows, and organizational structure.
After completing the trainee program, I took on the role of Executive Assistant to the CEO, a position I held for three years and which gave me comprehensive insight into the company’s strategic direction. I then spent two years as Digitalization Manager, driving various digitalization initiatives as well as the modernization of internal processes and systems.”
How did you end up in the U.S.?
“In 2025, GEALAN expanded its global presence beyond Europe and established its first North American subsidiary in the United States. As part of this important step, I was given the opportunity to transfer to GEALAN Window Systems Inc. in Columbus, Ohio.”
What exactly are your responsibilities today?
“Today, I am responsible for digitalization and business development. Since operations in the U.S. are still in their early stages, my responsibilities include both operational setup and supporting long-term growth.
One focus is on the implementation and further development of GEALAN’s digital ecosystem, including planning software, CRM systems, lead management platforms, and the GEALAN e-shop. These solutions help optimize internal processes and enable customers to plan and configure window and door systems more efficiently.
In addition, I oversee parts of the supply chain processes—from the procurement of profiles and lamination materials from Europe through order management to delivery in the U.S. This requires close collaboration with teams in Europe and North America.
I also support our training center in the area of window and door construction, for example, with the configuration of window systems for production planning, technical demonstrations, and training sessions. Another important part of my work involves familiarizing customers and partners with European tilt-and-turn window systems—which are still relatively new in North America—and explaining their advantages over traditional American systems. Overall, I work closely with various teams and often serve as an interface between internal departments and customers.”
Why did you choose Hof University of Applied Sciences?
“I chose Hof University primarily because of the internationally oriented structure of the master’s program. The program combined six months of study at the PSG Institute of Management in India with one and a half years at Hof University, as well as a mandatory six-month industry internship.
This structure offered the opportunity to combine academic knowledge with practical professional experience in an international environment. What was particularly compelling for me was the strong focus on linking theory with industry experience—an ideal foundation for an international career.”
Ashwanth Krishna Vijay
What memories do you have of your time as a student?
“My time as a student is filled with many special memories. I remember well the beginning in India with enrollment, the visa interviews, and finally my first international flight to Germany in 2017.
Arriving in Hof and starting out in a new country was exciting at first, but also a bit overwhelming. The language, culture, and academic environment were all new to me. But the friendly atmosphere at Hof University of Applied Sciences, along with the support from fellow students and faculty, helped me settle in quickly.
Over time, Hof became a second home for me—I ended up living there for almost eight years and formed close connections. The university’s international environment, with students from many parts of the world, was particularly formative. German language courses, business lectures, university events, and career fairs also provided excellent preparation for professional life.”
But were you able to enjoy yourself a bit alongside all the work?
“Of course, student life wasn’t just about lectures and exams. Among my fondest memories are group projects with classmates from different cultures, long evenings spent preparing presentations, trips through Germany and Europe, and my first winter with snow.
Looking back, my time at Hof University was far more than just a degree program—it was an international experience that broadened my horizons, fostered friendships, and laid the foundation for my professional career.”
What challenges arise in professional life that no degree program can truly prepare you for?
“One of the things you quickly realize after entering the workforce is that the real world is far more dynamic and unpredictable than any classroom setting. While your studies provide the theoretical foundation and important analytical skills, many challenges only become apparent once you’re actually working and taking responsibility for real projects and results. One of the biggest differences lies in dealing with uncertainty and practical constraints. In professional settings, decisions often have to be made quickly—sometimes based on incomplete information—while simultaneously taking into account deadlines, budgets, customer expectations, and operational realities. Learning how to navigate such situations and make sound decisions under pressure is something that can truly only be developed through experience.
Another challenge is collaborating across different teams and departments. In theory, solutions often seem straightforward, but in practice, every department has its own priorities, processes, and constraints. Reconciling these different perspectives, managing expectations, and ensuring clear communication becomes an essential part of everyday professional life.”
…especially in times of such rapid technological change…
“Yes. In recent years, one of the most significant developments has been the rapid advancement of digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. AI is increasingly transforming the way companies operate—from data analysis and automation to decision support and customer interactions. While universities teach the underlying concepts, the real challenge in the professional world lies in understanding how to integrate these technologies meaningfully and practically into business processes. This also involves assessing where AI creates real added value and where human judgment and experience remain indispensable. Since technology evolves so rapidly, professionals must continuously learn, adapt, and stay curious. New tools, platforms, and digital opportunities are constantly emerging, and keeping pace with these developments becomes an ongoing part of professional development.
Looking back, the degree program primarily instills the fundamental mindset for structured thinking and learning. However, many of the most valuable lessons—such as dealing with complexity, collaborating across teams, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies like AI—are ultimately learned over time through practical experience.”
What advice would you give to students just starting their studies today?
“For students just starting their studies, it’s important to make the most of opportunities beyond the classroom. Technical knowledge is essential, but experiences such as internships, hands-on projects, networking events, and insights into different professional environments can play a crucial role in shaping your future career and developing a better understanding of how industries actually function.
It is equally important to remain curious and open to new ideas, especially with regard to emerging technologies. Developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, automation, advanced data analysis, and digital platforms are rapidly transforming many industries. A fundamental understanding of these trends, along with a willingness to continuously develop new skills, can be a major advantage as the world of work continues to evolve.”
Ashwanth Krishna Vijay
Another important aspect is developing strong communication and teamwork skills. In professional life, success often depends not only on technical knowledge but also on the ability to collaborate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and disciplines. At the same time, stepping outside your comfort zone can be highly valuable. Taking the initiative to explore new areas of interest and tackle challenging projects broadens your horizons and helps build self-confidence, adaptability, and resilience.
In many ways, career paths rarely go exactly according to plan. Being open to new experiences and continuously developing new skills often leads to the most significant opportunities and long-term growth.”
Thank you very much, and continued success!
