Manuel Holzhauer to leave the hub by end of May, Christian Gnam takes over as interim Managing Director
InsurTech Hub Munich’s (ITHM) Managing Director Manuel Holzhauer has decided to accept a new challenge, joining Microsoft Deutschland as Insurance Industry Executive. He will leave the hub by the end of May. Christian Gnam, Director Partnerships, takes over as interim Managing Director.
“Manuel has successfully built up the ITHM team to what it is today, carrying out two productive accelerator programmes, Batches 4 and 5,” comments Chairman of the Board Tom Van den Brulle. “Since his first day at ITHM in September 2018, he has been acting as a highly appreciated connector for all stakeholders and has vastly expanded the network’s partnerships base and its visibility.” Van den Brulle adds: “Coming from Munich Re, Manuel’s deep understanding of the insurance business was and continues to be highly valued. The board and the whole team are sad to see him leave.”
“The past two years might easily pass as the most exciting of my professional life,” says Holzhauer. “I unabatedly believe that cooperation between startups and big corporations is the magic formula that will allow insurers to keep innovating and ensure their position as spearheads of an essential industry. Having established a powerful and diverse team makes me extremely proud and I will make sure to follow up on ITHM’s future success stories after my departure”.
The ITHM board is currently talking to possible successors but cannot disclose details yet. “Manuel’s demission will not interfere with any ongoing processes or the running Innovation Programme”, makes clear Van den Brulle and adds: “We are very grateful that Christian is taking over the role in the meantime. As Director Partnerships he has massively contributed to the growth of ITHM and the interaction with its corporate partners. Christian’s leadership qualities and experience as officiating Deputy Managing Director are highly valued.”
Text: Markus Walter