KLU Talks Business with Dominik Schindler, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
Counting on the leaders of tomorrow: With the launch of KLU’s new Master’s program Business Analytics & Data Science (BADS), Hellmann Worldwide Logistics and KLU are taking their partnership to the next level. Dominik Schindler, Head of Innovation at Hellmann, explains why data science has become indispensable for logistics — and why supporting a KLU student is a logical step toward a digital future.
12,000 employees in 60 countries – what does innovation mean when you’re already among the big players?
Dominik Schindler: At the end of the day, it’s about keeping a company with over 150 years of history fit for the future. We constantly have to challenge ourselves: What can we do better, how can we do it better, and where should we bring in external partners? We combine our international network and logistics expertise with the innovative strength of new players. This includes internal projects in AI and data science, but also partnerships in which we co-develop or implement new solutions.
We see innovation as an ecosystem — shifting from an ego-system to an eco-system. The greatest impact comes from connecting diverse stakeholders: start-ups, venture capital, established companies like ours, academic institutions, and initiatives such as the Digital Hub Logistics in Hamburg.
You’re sponsoring a student in KLU’s new BADS master’s program. Why is this a good fit for Hellmann?
Schindler: The new master’s program bridges data science and logistics — exactly where we see some of the most exciting applications: AI-driven forecasting, or multilingual communication tools for drivers and dispatchers, which we’ve developed ourselves. We’ve always enjoyed collaborating with universities — from apprenticeships and theses to dual study programs. Through events like Career Connect and the Digital Hub, we’ve already had several touchpoints with KLU.
The student we’re supporting combines a strong interest in data science and AI with experience in mobility and the start-up world — a perfect match for us. We’ll be mentoring him closely throughout his studies and, of course, we hope this will lead to future collaboration.
Which skills do young professionals need to drive innovation in logistics?
Schindler: Anyone entering this field needs a solid basic understanding of technology. Those working in innovation must be curious about new technologies, experiment with them, and question them critically. It’s also crucial to structure complex challenges, face uncertainty, and take the next pragmatic step even when the final destination isn’t yet clear. A program like KLU’s BADS master’s teaches exactly these skills — the ability to analyze problems independently, develop solutions, and continuously reflect on one’s own approach.
If you had to describe KLU in three words?
Schindler: Hanseatic. Innovative. Pragmatic.
Info box:
Hellmann demonstrates how companies can foster talent and drive innovation through university partnerships.
KLU offers a wide range of opportunities for strategic collaboration — from guest lectures and case studies to joint research and targeted talent sponsorships. A partnership with KLU creates real value for companies that want to actively shape the future.
