Birgit Breitschuh: Simplifying Planning & Driving Business Excellence

As industries undergo rapid transformation due to de-globalization, shifting market dynamics, and technological disruptions, sustaining long-term competitiveness requires a robust and future-ready workforce. To navigate this complex landscape, strategic investment in talent development, upskilling, and workforce optimization are essential to build operational resilience and drive sustainable growth in an interconnected global marketplace.

Navigating the complexities of enterprise management and driving effective change management is Birgit Breitschuh. Armed with over two decades of experience in supply chain optimization and innovation management, Birgit is currently a Partner at business consultancy, Oliver Wight. Having previously worked for large FMCG brands such as Unilever, Kraft, and Wrigley (Mars), she specializes in solving complex operational challenges to enhance business performance.

In her current role Birgit supports leaders in navigating transformation and ensuring organizations remain agile in today’s competitive market. Passionate about professional development, Birgit has guided individuals and teams toward unlocking their potential and achieving success. Her unconventional career journey has strengthened her adaptability and resilience. She values personal engagement as a key driver of organizational success.

Take us through your educational journey. How did your time at ETH Zurich Switzerland impact your growth as an individual and as a professional?

I pursued a degree in Food Science and Technology in Berlin, a choice driven by the program board’s multidisciplinary approach. It provided me with insights into both scientific and commercial dynamics. Given that food remains a fundamental human need, I saw this field as strategically significant and inherently impactful.

I gained extensive hands-on experience through industry internships. These experiences shaped my perspective and deepened my industry knowledge. My curiosity about academic research took me to ETH Zurich Switzerland. The university’s industry-integrated research, including confidential machine building projects, inspired me to join. I later managed a specialized division, overseeing confidential projects and a skilled team, which deepened my leadership and technical acumen.

For me the essence of leadership, both internally at oliver wight and with clients, is the drive to push boundaries and enable growth beyond perceived limitations

Tell us about your professional journey in the innovation and supply chain management space?

With a PhD specializing in machinery and equipment in Food Processing, I advanced to Unilever’s Innovation Centre in the Netherlands, leading product portfolio management. After a fulfilling tenure at Unilever, I relocated to Munich and joined Kraft’s chocolate division, focusing on optimizing large-scale production efficiency and resolving customer related product challenges.

Working at Mars in various leadership roles in regional Supply Chain, my introduction to Oliver Wight came when the consultancy was chosen based on the positive experience of one of our key leaders. As I engaged with their methodology, I developed a deep appreciation for their practical approach from method to meaning, delivering client impact.

After successfully steering our business from decline to growth, I was inspired to extend my expertise to others. My strength lies in people management, problem-solving and connecting strategic elements to drive meaningful solutions.

What has been the most defining moment in your professional journey?

One of the most defining moments in my career was when I stepped into the Supply Chain role after working in the Commercial space. Under the guidance of a leader who constantly challenged me to go beyond my comfort zone, I developed a strong can-do attitude and a keen ability to navigate complex operational challenges. This, in turn, provided me with invaluable experiences and insights into operational efficiency, strategic execution, and the ability to perform under pressure.

Today my leadership philosophy resolves around fostering a culture where people are encouraged to challenge themselves, push boundaries to develop new skills, and drive continuous improvement.

Introduce us to Oliver Wight EAME.

Oliver Wight is a UK-based change management consultancy. Partnership is more than a structure for Oliver Wight - it defines how we engage with clients. We empower leaders to rethink approaches, address challenges, and guide their teams through transformation. By combining process focus with behavior change, we ensure accountability and alignment driving meaningful and lasting organizational change. We help leaders navigate change ensuring clear accountability, stakeholder engagement, and honest conversations about necessary behavioral shifts.

What fundamental principles guide your approach to leadership? How do you work towards achieving organizational success at Oliver Wight?

Leading by example is the cornerstone of effective leadership for me. I firmly believe that processes exist for a reason and should be followed to ensure consistency and efficiency. I take proactive steps to streamline processes and drive operational successes, eliminate inefficiencies and bridge gaps wherever needed.

As a leader, my role is twofold: ensuring that everyone upholds the same standards of excellence by following established processes and prioritizing client success. I focus on creating an environment where each individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully and is held accountable for delivering results. For me the essence of leadership, both internally at Oliver Wight and with clients, is the drive to push boundaries and enable growth beyond perceived limitations.

What key business challenges do you encounter in your current role? How do you successfully navigate through these roadblocks?

In my opinion, balancing the rapid advancement of technology with human adaptability is an ongoing process. Technology presents vast opportunities and significant challenges. My role within the Oliver Wight management team is to drive a strategic approach to adaptation; ensuring that we and our clients adapt at the right pace to remain competitive and efficient. I also work to identify the core elements that remain essential for long-term business success. Our focus is on refining our offerings and business strategy by harnessing the power of technology. We are committed to preserve the relevance of our organization built over a strong foundation.

Which career milestones have been the most significant for you? What guiding principles have contributed to your success?

A key moment in my professional journey occurred 12 years ago when I transitioned from corporate leadership into the partnership model. As a former competitive sailor, I was naturally driven by performance benchmarks and continuous improvements. Stepping into this role has extended my reach, not just on individuals but on industries as a whole. I have guided professionals in unlocking their full potential, breaking barriers and achieving new horizons of success. Additionally, my work has broadened beyond the food industry into new ventures, requiring me to navigate diverse business cultures.

The foundation for my success lies in the solution-driven approach, a constant belief in my abilities and the unwavering support from my husband and kids.

Birgit Breitschuh, Partner, Oliver Wight Eame

An experienced business leader with expertise in change management, commercial and supply chain management. Armed with two decades of experience working for major FMCG companies, Birgit currently spearheads multifaceted international enterprise shifts through strategic focused planning and governance, enabling tactical execution with excellence.