I have been working for KPMG in the tax department since 1997, after completing my law studies and working in Germany and abroad. As head of the tax department in Bielefeld, my focus is on advising my clients on restructuring and their international expansion. This also includes representing my clients during tax audits by the tax authorities in Germany and abroad. My industry focus is on the automotive, mechanical engineering, service and logistics sectors. An increasing focus is on providing tax advice on the rollout of digital business models.
What connects you to the Westphalia region, especially East Westphalia and Münsterland?
I grew up in the Palatinate and studied in Freiburg and Saarbrücken, among other places. Despite this "southern German background", the region has become home to me and my family.
What do you value about the region, what makes Westphalia special for you?
The region is extremely economically strong, but treats this topic with likeable modesty. I find the combination of hidden champions and listed companies appealing.
What makes the region interesting for you professionally?
Many internationally active companies are based here. This means I can deal with tax issues from Abu Dhabi to Cyprus. I find this global perspective very exciting and it is particularly possible in our region.
What is your area of expertise and what relevance does it have for companies in the region?
I provide advice on all international issues. From the financing of subsidiaries and permanent establishments to value creation and transfer pricing. I also have another topic: tax compliance. How do you fulfill your compliance obligations as a board member in these highly regulated times? This affects both small and large listed companies and is also an international issue.
Which target group are you addressing?
Companies that operate internationally. Our client base extends beyond the region and also includes DAX-listed companies. Although this may seem surprising at first glance, there are numerous synergies for advising larger family businesses.
What challenges do companies face and how can KPMG support them?
The tax environment is becoming increasingly complex due to the OECD's BEPS 2.0 initiative and many national regulations. The number of conflicts with tax authorities and penalties for breaches of tax laws is increasing. We support companies in ensuring that they operate in a globally compliant manner. Avoiding double taxation in international business is another key aspect of our advice.
What other exciting developments are you observing in the region and among companies?
What makes me personally very proud is the fact that companies from the East Westphalia Lippe region form the "Industry 4.0 Leading-Edge Cluster".
The transformation towards global, digital business models in particular is associated with many tax issues, to which we find answers together with our clients. As KPMG Bielefeld, we are leaders in this field in Germany. Our projects speak for us.
Why is KPMG the clear choice for companies in your region?
We have everything you need for international business locally: the network, the experience and over 300 experts in Bielefeld in the areas of tax, auditing and consulting.