An interview with André C. Wohlgemuth

Company: ARCOM Management Consulting
Location: Zürich, Switzerland
Position: Chairman and Managing Director

Where did you learn the basics of running a business?
I'm still learning! But I started early as I walked around in my grandfather's factory when I was 6 years old. Some years later I earned my first money in my father's firm. I developed successful products and I wanted to surpass my father ....... so I became a management consultant.

Whom did you work with, before becoming a consultant?
During my university years I gained a lot of practice in the printing and editing industry. I had experiences in retail with teaching and in the design business. I also worked with IBM ("Big blue" 1978!). After three years as research assistant at Zurich University I worked with Credit Suisse as project manager. I had to implement an innovative management development system for all the 400 top managers of the global Swiss bank. Two years later the main job here was done and one of the large Swiss Management Consulting firms hired me. Up to date nobody protected me from this crazy profession.

What will you do in ten years?
If God gives me a chance: Doing work with challenging people, diving with my wife at "hot" places around the world and popularizing consulting in our society.

What kind of people do you like to work with?
People who stimulate themselves and me for excellence in work. People who are open minded or highly creative and - very important - who are honest.

And some bad characterstics?
I prefer to look at the semi full glass of wine instead of the half empty one.

Is there someone whom you would describe as very intelligent?
All who are more intelligent than me (I think there are many ........)

After working many years as a consultant you managed many projects. Are there any really special among them?
Oh yes, so many! Give me a call and tell me what you are most interested in: "Father, Son & Co.", "Be a good policemen", "Sex and crime", "Death at work", "The emperor's new clothes", "Kill my boss", "The fighting brothers", "McKinsey was here", "Kindergarden", "Cherchez la femme" .......

Why is your company a member of IMCN?
Because I dreamt about a professional network of top management consultants from all European cultures becoming also good friends!