The Euro50 Q&A: Lutz Schüler, Unitymedia

Under CEO Lutz Schüler, Liberty Global-owned German cabler Unitymedia saw strong broadband growth last year.

Age 43

Education Traineeship as bank clerk; Master’s degree in business administration from the University of Augsburg.

Last year’s highlights Initiating the “Go to Market” project, in which improvements are to be identified in all company divisions and the relevant measures implemented in order to get Unitymedia fit for the future. Another highlight – record growth rates in the third quarter of this year, making Unitymedia Germany’s fastest growing broadband internet provider.

Most significant industry development That the importance of strong brands is growing in our business.

Goals for next year The merger of Kabel BW and Unitymedia to create Germany’s most successful media and telecommunications company. In the process, continue our successful growth path with innovative offerings, reliable service, and price and performance leadership; repositioning of our brand to give it more emotion to anchor it even more strongly in consumer minds.

Industry challenges and opportunities Our challenge is to maintain our growth rate compared with the major telcos. Introducing hybrid, interactive TV together with an attractive, intuitive user interface is one of the greatest opportunities.

Alternative career choice Becoming a windsurf professional.

Most admired personality I really admired Steve Jobs. He could see things from a new perspective, had a clear vision and was brave enough to implement these ideas even in the face of resistance.

Life outside work I spend time with my family and enjoy sports such as surfing and snowboarding.