Jürgen Radel

Jürgen Radel

Jürgen Radel has been teaching as a professor in Faculty 3 since 2014. He specialises in resistance issues during change processes, exploring human resources management (HRM) in the broadest sense.

What’s the biggest challenge for an HR manager?

Very few people are willing to change, especially when it is "ordered from above". That's when things start to get unpleasant – for everyone involved. The question is how we can steer this process so that everyone benefits, which of course isn’t always possible without conflict or doesn’t work out in the end.

What other topics is HRM currently addressing?

In my opinion, many of the wrong topics unfortunately. That’s because HRM very often focuses on itself and is quite resistant to change. The aim is often to optimise what already exists, but usually nothing much changes. Having said that, I also know that there are many great exceptions – HR managers with a very future-oriented approach to the development of organisations.

Who is essential for you at HTW Berlin?

Anyone who disagrees with me and constantly causes me to reflect on my own position. I like critically-minded people who engage in a constructive discussion in the interests of the subject and ask questions beyond the usual comfort zone. Basically, anyone who wants to make a difference because they believe in something. Such people can be found at all levels of HTW Berlin and within its environment. Talking with them is very important, ideally in person.

What do you enjoy most at HTW Berlin?

Beginning the semester break after having devoted all my energy to teaching during the semester. It gives me the chance to work on things that will help me to progress in my field. I also like the start of the semester because then I can discuss all my crazy ideas, new thoughts and new learnings with students and project partners.

Who would you like to have a coffee with?

I’d like to have coffee again with Uwe Lübbermann from Premium Cola in Hamburg because he has a very good perspective on the economy. His views always challenge me mentally and take me out of my comfort zone. But I’d probably drink a Premium Cola with him rather than a coffee. Alternatively, Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State under George W. Bush, would be a very interesting person to talk to.

Jürgen Radel
Books in the office of Jürgen Radel Jürgen Radel in front of the library at Campus Treskowallee
Jürgen Radel sitting in the main lecture hall Podcast-Equipment in the office of Jürgen Radel

Photos: Alexander Rentsch
© HTW Berlin, Presse- und Öffentlichkeitsarbeit

2 September 2019