Meet Jannis - Holtzbrinck Careers

From student to publishing and media expert

As a trainee in media management at KiWi for a "dual study program", Jannis immerses himself in the world of media.

What is your name and what do you do at Kiepenheuer & Witsch (KiWi)?

My name is Jannis and I'm combining academic studies with experience in a company by taking on a "dual study" program (Media Management Assistant Digital & Print) at Kiepenheuer & Witsch.

Why did you decide to join KiWi and do the training?

The connection to practice is incredibly important to me. I always wanted to "do" rather than just learn theory. Besides, I've always wondered what happens before I walk into a bookshop and pick up a book. The entire process of creating this medium fascinates me. What I appreciate about KiWi is its innovative strength and its history. In addition, the publishing house manages to combine the economic efficiency of a company with consistent artistic standards. The content of my training completely covers these topics and I get to know every single step. In short, I couldn't be happier.

What are you working on in your current rotation?

I'm currently working in the online marketing department. Here I look after bloggers and am also responsible for our social media channels. In addition, I'm currently doing some back-office work for the design team.

What is/was an exciting project for you so far? Why?

Last year, I organised an author reading with a trainee from the book trade. The exchange with the bookseller existed beforehand in order to be able to compare publishing and bookselling perspectives. The project consisted of independently taking on everything from start to finish: planning, implementation, application etc. I found the overlapping of our fields of activity and the resulting outcomes particularly exciting.

What next rotations are you looking forward to?

I've already been able to do some pretty cool things at KiWi, but this year I'm especially looking forward to my internship at a large daily newspaper. In general, I keep realising how I can combine practice and theory. I am becoming more independent and at the same time I am being given more responsibility. In each new department, I bring perspectives and knowledge about the other stations. In some processes, this is a real advantage. The apprenticeship therefore provides me with contents and skills that are not very common in a degree course.

What do you particularly appreciate about working at KiWi?

Even as a trainee, I am a full member of the team. I can help shape things and colleagues explicitly ask me for my opinion. I really appreciate having a say in things. I also learn a lot about the book industry, even beyond the content of my apprenticeship. My teaching discussions always go beyond the content being taught and I have the feeling that the people at KiWi are enthusiastic about their work. What's more, we always have our finger on the pulse here. You learn a lot about current debates on cultural policy and see how the world is changing through examples.

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