From the first steps in marketing to leading an international team at the cosmetics manufacturer Jüstrich Cosmetics AG – in our series "Graduate of the Month," Sabine Pfefferkorn shares her exciting career journey. In the interview, she provides valuable insights into the key moments of her career and demonstrates how further education, networking, and the choice of the right degree programme have shaped her success.

What motivated you to choose the Marketing & Sales programme at Campus 02 University of Applied Sciences?

After my A-levels and a period abroad, I started a trainee programme at Wolford AG in Bregenz, a renowned manufacturer and now also retailer of luxury skinwear. During this programme, I gained extensive insights into various departments of the company, with the activities in the marketing department bringing me particular joy from the very beginning. A few months later, the opportunity unexpectedly arose to take on the role of Direct Marketing Coordinator. I really enjoyed the job, but I soon realised that I lacked the theoretical foundation for this area of responsibility.

Therefore, I began to look into further education options in the field of marketing. I found practical training programmes at universities of applied sciences particularly appealing. At that time, there were universities of applied sciences in Vienna and Graz offering marketing courses. After careful consideration and visits to both locations, I chose FH CAMPUS 02 in Graz. From the very first day, I felt at home there and knew that this was the right place for my academic and professional development.

Can you share a special memory or highlight from your time studying?

The graduation ceremony with the handing over of diplomas was certainly one of the most emotional moments of my studies, which I was able to celebrate with my new friends and family. After four intensive but also incredibly eventful and exciting years in Graz, I left the city with mixed feelings—both happy and sad. At that time, I thought this farewell was only temporary, and I was sure I would return soon...

What skills or knowledge that you acquired at FH CAMPUS 02 have been the most helpful in your professional career?

The education at CAMPUS 02 University of Applied Sciences was characterised by countless project works and case studies. These experiences have greatly helped me in my professional career to define an approach and implement it efficiently when dealing with novel topics, tasks, or projects. I am convinced that nowadays, it is not just one’s own knowledge that is crucial, but rather the understanding of how to proceed in order to achieve a goal.

What did your career path look like after graduation? What stations did you go through?

After my graduation, I started directly in Export Marketing at Sigvaris AG in St. Gallen (CH), a globally active manufacturer of medical compression garments. In this position, I had the opportunity to take on a wide range of tasks: from advising international distributors on their marketing activities, to developing shop-in-shop concepts, and even designing an app that determines the correct size for compression stockings. These diverse activities allowed me to build a great network of agencies and service providers in Switzerland, as well as gain extensive experience in international marketing.

After about three years, however, I felt a desire for change, as the heavily regulated medical field left little room for dynamism. I decided to move to the cosmetics manufacturer Jüstrich Cosmetics AG in Berneck (CH). As a Product Manager, I delved deep into the complex world of cosmetics, which turned out to be much more demanding than expected. One of my main responsibilities was project management, from the initial idea or development order to product delivery for various brands.

After another three years, I had the opportunity to move into the role of Key Account Manager in the Private Label business area. This new position in sales presented an exciting challenge, where I managed international B2B key accounts and launched various new cosmetic products in collaboration with them. Three years later, I was given responsibility for the Marketing & Sales department. Although I occasionally thought about changing companies, I remained loyal to Jüstrich Cosmetics, as I find the innovative cosmetics industry exceptionally appealing, and new doors kept opening for me within the company.

Since 2020, I have been leading the Marketing and Sales team. From 1st September, our production partner, Temmentec AG in Sumiswald (CH), will take over all development and sales activities of Jüstrich Cosmetics AG. With this acquisition, all employees, including myself, will become part of Temmentec, and I will take on the leadership of the branch in Berneck.

How do sustainability and environmentally friendly practices influence the marketing and sales strategies at Jüstrich Cosmetics?

Sustainability is a central theme in the cosmetics industry, with both B2B and B2C customers increasingly demanding sustainable products. But what does sustainability really mean? Unfortunately, many claims made on cosmetic products fall under the term "greenwashing." At Jüstrich Cosmetics, we are deeply engaged with sustainability, from selecting resource-efficient and upcycled raw materials to using environmentally friendly packaging. Our approach is based on the principles of recycle, replace, reuse, and reduce, aiming to minimise packaging materials and utilise alternative, more biodegradable materials. Furthermore, the cosmetics industry is developing processes to manufacture products with minimal energy consumption. This is such a comprehensive topic that I would probably need to write a separate report on it. However, it is important to note that sustainability plays a significant role in Europe. Most of our customers distribute cosmetic products worldwide, and unfortunately, sustainability has not yet achieved the same level of importance outside Europe.

Are there specific trends or developments in the field of Marketing & Sales that students should keep an eye on?

In the future, marketing and sales professionals will face challenges shaped by rapid developments, an overwhelming amount of information, limited time resources, and the influence of artificial intelligence.
Students must learn to adapt marketing and sales strategies agilely and respond quickly to changes in the market and customer behaviour. Additionally, it is crucial to develop skills to filter relevant information from the flood of data. Efficient time management is essential to prioritise tasks effectively and maximise productivity. Finally, students should develop a solid understanding of the applications of artificial intelligence to harness automation potential while maintaining personal customer relationships.

How important do you think further education and lifelong learning are in this field?

In this fast-paced world, further education and lifelong learning are essential in most fields to remain up to date. From my perspective, however, contacts and personal relationships are becoming particularly important. Building a good network is central, as it can be crucial to know which specialists to turn to in order to achieve a specific goal.

I advise students...

Seize the opportunities that life offers you and take every chance to grow and learn.

A few words with Sabine:

• From my time at university, I still have…
  …many folders filled with paper that I probably should dispose of ;-), as well as lasting friendships that are still very important to me today.
• Who has inspired you?
  In my daily life, I am continually inspired by wonderful colleagues and friends who bring new perspectives and ideas into my life and work with their creativity, commitment, and positive attitude.
• If I were to study again, I would…
  …choose a university of applied sciences in a city that I like.

My studies in 4 words:

• VOCATIONAL TRAINING
• Friendships
• Personal growth
• unforgettable