Graduate Program - Strategy (m/f/d)

Holtzbrinck is a global group of companies dedicated to exploring and sharing ideas , innovations , and stories that move people , broaden perspectives , and enable progress . With more than 14,000 employees worldwide , we drive developments in education , science , publishing , and journalism – guided by curiosity , responsibility , and a passion for content . Our diverse group includes Springer Nature, Digital Science, DIE ZEIT, Rowohlt, S. Fischer, and Macmillan Learning.

As the central partner within the group , Holtzbrinck Holding promotes innovation and collaboration across the companies and supports their sustainable development.

The Program

Our 24-month Graduate Program offers a structured entry into Strategy at Holtzbrinck, through four rotations across the holding and selected business units. The program offers a flexible start date, with opportunities to join at short notice in autumn 2026.

Expect a combination of rotations that will include time spent with the Munich-based Strategy team; the Stuttgart-based Group Controlling and M&A team; a hands‑on operational experience at a German business unit (location TBD), and an international business unit in NYC, London, or San Francisco. In each of these rotations, you will gain broad exposure to different business models, strategic challenges, and innovation-driven environments across our international group.

The program combines strategic and entrepreneurial thinking with a strong analytical foundation, including exposure to financial and performance‑driven decision‑making in an international business context. From day one, you will contribute to strategic initiatives with real business relevance — combining analytical work with hands‑on project ownership and helping shape decisions with long‑term impact. Along the way, you will build a strong foundation in strategic analysis, market research, innovation, and the business implications of emerging technologies such as AI.

In addition to hands‑on project work, you will benefit from dedicated mentoring, tailored learning opportunities, and development formats designed to accelerate your professional growth.

The program is designed to prepare you for future roles in strategy, innovation, and transformation‑related functions across the group.

What you will be doing

As part of collaborative and driven teams across different rotations, you will work on:

• Conducting market, business, and performance analyses to identify trends, opportunities, and strategic implications for Holtzbrinck’s businesses
• Supporting strategic initiatives and innovation-related projects from analysis through to execution
• Preparing decision‑making materials, reports, and presentations for senior stakeholders, including the Management Board and Supervisory Board
• Collaborating with stakeholders across functions and business units to translate complex analyses into actionable recommendations
• Independently driving a dedicated strategic project related to AI, innovation, or business transformation

What we are looking for

We are looking for analytically strong and driven graduates with a keen interest in strategy, business development, and the role of innovation and technology in shaping the media landscape of tomorrow.

What you bring:

• Strong academic background in Business Administration, Economics, Media, or a related field
• Solid understanding of business fundamentals, including strategy, finance, and various business models
• Initial practical experience in strategy, consulting, M&A, or business development (e.g. through internships or working student roles)
• Strong analytical and conceptual skills, with the ability to structure complex problems and derive actionable strategic recommendations
• High level of ownership and accountability, with a pragmatic, solution‑oriented mindset and the ability to work independently in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong communication skills in English and the ability to present complex insights and recommendations in a clear and compelling way; good working proficiency in German is highly desirable.
• Strong curiosity and passion for media, digital innovation, and technology – particularly regarding the business implications of AI

What we offer

We foster a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and experimentation, where people are encouraged to challenge ideas, take ownership, and continuously learn.

• A full‑time, permanent position within a 24‑month Graduate Program, offering long‑term career opportunities beyond the program within our group
• Close collaboration with a small, driven team of experienced strategy and innovation professionals
• Dedicated mentoring and personalized development throughout the program, including tailored learning opportunities
• A flexible, hybrid setup in Munich and Stuttgart for your first rotation
• A supportive work culture with a strong focus on collaboration and work‑life balance

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and recognize the many benefits of a diverse workforce with equal opportunities for all. We strive to create an inclusive work environment that provides all our employees the opportunity to grow. Our search for the best talent fully embraces and promotes these values and principles.