The BMW Group and ESMT Berlin are set to continue their partnership into its fifth year with the announcement of the 2026 Change Maker Fellowship. This initiative aims to support aspiring leaders who are eager to influence the digital transformation landscape. The fellowships will be available for ESMT’s Full-time MBA, MSc programs, and the Global Online MBA, providing a diverse range of educational opportunities for candidates.
The Change Maker Fellowship reflects a shared commitment between BMW Group and ESMT Berlin to cultivate responsible leadership that can drive positive change in both business and society. With the increasing complexities of the modern workplace, the need for leaders who can effectively navigate technological advancements has never been more crucial. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between technical expertise and management skills, which is essential in today’s rapidly evolving digital environment.
Ilka Horstmeier, a member of the Board of Management at BMW AG, emphasized the importance of responsible leadership in the context of current societal challenges. She noted that the fellowship seeks to equip future leaders with the necessary tools to leverage technology and digitalization for the greater good. This focus on responsibility aligns with BMW's broader mission of driving innovation while considering its impact on society.
The fellowship is specifically designed for candidates with a strong STEM background who are looking to enhance their technical knowledge with management education. By combining technological know-how with leadership skills, participants will be prepared to take on significant roles in digital innovation. This approach is particularly relevant as the automotive industry undergoes significant shifts towards electrification and automation.
With over 10,000 IT and software experts employed globally, BMW Group has established a robust network of IT hubs across various countries, including Germany, India, and the United States. The 2026 Change Maker Fellowships are open to applicants from these countries, reflecting BMW's commitment to fostering talent in regions where it operates. This global perspective is essential for nurturing a diverse pool of future leaders.
ESMT President Jörg Rocholl acknowledged the importance of the partnership with BMW Group in advancing the fellowship initiative. He highlighted the changing landscape of leadership roles due to digital transformation and artificial intelligence. The fellowship aims to prepare participants for the evolving demands of leadership by combining their technological backgrounds with management education.
Eligibility for the BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship is limited to candidates with a strong quantitative or technology-focused background. Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or have work experience in areas such as computer science or digitalization. This selective approach ensures that the fellowship attracts individuals who are well-equipped to thrive in a technologically driven environment.
Applications for the fellowship are open exclusively to citizens or permanent residents from specific countries, including Germany, India, and South Africa. This targeted approach not only fosters diversity but also aligns with BMW Group's global operational footprint. Additionally, individuals with recognized refugee status in Germany are also encouraged to apply, promoting inclusivity in this leadership initiative.
The collaboration between BMW Group and ESMT Berlin highlights the growing importance of integrating technology and leadership in the automotive sector. As the industry faces rapid digital transformation, initiatives like this are crucial for nurturing the next generation of responsible leaders.
