"Courage and networking are the key"

As a member of the management team at SANlight GmbH in Schruns – a leading provider of LED solutions for horticulture – Frederik Brust is responsible for Marketing, Sales and Business Development. In addition, the graduate of the Bachelor's programme in International Business Administration and the corresponding Master's with a specialisation in Marketing & Sales, also leads the company’s international branches in Miami and Johannesburg. In this role, he is driving the international expansion in key markets such as the USA and South Africa. In this interview, the 39-year-old from Feldkirch reflects on how managing both work and studies prepared him perfectly for a leadership role – and why the FHV alumni network remains a valuable resource.

How did your studies at FHV support you on your path to success?

The programme was very practice-oriented, without neglecting the theoretical foundation. Alongside business management tools, we also developed soft skills such as teamwork, presenting, time management – and, not least, coping with time pressure. The close collaboration between FHV and local companies – in my case, Hilti – allowed me to gain practical experience early on. This combination laid the foundation for my career path.

Was there a particular highlight during your studies?

Yes, the TOPSIM business simulation. Many of the mechanisms I encountered there now appear in my professional day-to-day. This knowledge makes it much easier to understand markets and their dynamics. Standout lectures included the Team and Communication Training with Professor Falko Wilms during the Bachelor's, and the Global Markets Analysis with Professor Stephanie Chen in the Master’s programme – challenging, engaging, outstanding lecturers, and both incredibly valuable to me today.

Why did you choose FHV at the time?

Small class sizes, a strong practical focus, and the mix of academic and industry-based lecturers convinced me. Looking back, it was absolutely the right decision – not least because of the great quality of life in Vorarlberg.

Studying and working at the same time – how did you manage it?

It was a huge challenge – probably the biggest I’ve faced. I had just started at Hilti and wanted to prove myself. At the same time, the degree programme demanded full commitment with presentations, assignments, group projects and exams. But managing this dual burden was the perfect preparation for a future leadership role. Writing my thesis pushed me to my personal limits – but those experiences continue to give me strength and self-confidence today.

Your tip for today’s part-time students?

Be bold! Courage and a willingness to take risks pay off. At the same time, there’s an incredible amount of potential in your own network – especially among your fellow students. We’re still in regular contact – not just socially, but also professionally.

What’s currently on your mind?

How artificial intelligence is transforming marketing and sales. It takes over routine tasks and creates space for creativity and relationship-building. My advice to graduates: stay curious and use these tools as support. Embrace change and actively shape your professional future. Networks – especially the FHV alumni network – are a valuable resource in this.


Thank you for the interview.


All information on the Bachelor’s degree in International Business Administration (full-time and part-time) is available ▷ here.
The Master’s programme International Business Administration – Future-Proof Management with a focus on Marketing, Sales & Innovation has been newly redesigned and teaches the future skills currently in demand on the job market. More information ▷ here.