We spoke with Mag. Merkl about why she came to the JKU and how she internationally regards the university.

Why did you decide to head Operations Management at the JKU?
Mag. Anke Merkl: The responsibilities in the area of Operations Management at the JKU are extensive, multifaceted, and give me an opportunity to be a team player and advance the JKU’s progress in a positive way. And yes, I very much look forward to putting in my energy, experience, and expertise to benefit the JKU.

The campus has undergone a lot of enhancements and renovation in recent years. Do you have plans for the future of our campus?
Mag. Anke Merkl: The JKU campus has undergone tremendous growth and while there are plans in the pipeline, these plans will first be discussed together with the Rectorate. The future of the campus means a great deal to me!

You have studied both in the USA and in France; can the JKU keep up internationally?
Mag. Anke Merkl: As a comparatively young university, the JKU has grown exponentially. Naturally, there are differences to the university systems in the USA and France, however many of these differences are also partly cultural. The JKU is innovative and dynamic, and I am pleased to play a role in our efforts to become one of Europe’s top universities.

What would the JKU need to look like at the end of day for you to say, "Yes, it was all worth it."?
Mag. Anke Merkl: The end is not the only thing that counts, but the journey to get there. I will strive to be involved in campus enhancement plans to the best of my ability. Together with my team, I intend to help to make the JKU a highly attractive campus for students, faculty, and researchers from around the world.

What are your hobbies that help you unwind at the end of the work day?
Mag. Anke Merkl: I recharge my batteries best and quickly when I can spend time outdoors, especially when hiking, mountain climbing or backcountry skiing. I also enjoy singing and am a passionate dancer. I am interested in foreign countries which is why I enjoy traveling. At the moment, my favorite destinations are wine regions all over the world.
 

About Anke Merkl

After passing her school-leaving examinations in Linz, Anke Merkl then studied business administration and languages in the USA (University of Colorado) and in France (University of Bordeaux). In addition, she completed the post-graduate program Creative Process Leadership at the LIMAK. Merkl spent many years at Business Upper Austria, where she was responsible for business relocation, development, communications, and investor relations. She then worked for the city of Linz as head of the Department of Economy and EU where she was also responsible for the Linz markets and served as managing director of City Management Linz Ltd., among other things. She currently resides in St. Florian.