My background
Thriving in Fields of Tension
As a business ethicist, I move between worlds that are not always easy to reconcile: theory and practice, reflection and action, academic thinking and business reality. This balancing act challenges and inspires me – and that’s precisely why I chose this field.
My studies took me from Zurich via Leuven (BE) to St. Gallen, my research to Barcelona and Nottingham. I earned my doctorate on business ethics and taught at various universities. Above all, I learned one thing: The most interesting questions force us to live with contradictions.
Since 2015, I’ve been working independently. I bring these questions to the stage, into companies, to universities. With analytical depth, clear language – and the conviction that ethical reflection and business reality only come together when you speak both languages.
What the Feedback Sounds Like
You very pointedly, with charm and humor, not only critically questioned AI but also delivered solution approaches. Thank you for your courage to speak plainly.
Audience Member, Event on Sustainability & AI
Very informative yet engaging; sensationally presented; I could take a lot away and it shed new light on AI for me.
Audience Member, Event on AI & Equal Opportunity
What really convinced me: quick response time, uncomplicated collaboration – and that we could really proceed individually. It was always honest.
Head of Sustainability, Swiss financial institution
My path – not linear but consistent
Studies in Zurich, Leuven (BE), St. Gallen –
Management Studies & International Relations
1995-2000
Dissertation at the University of St. Gallen (HSG) – Topic: Partnerships between NGOs & corporations from a business ethics perspective.
2003-2008
Research & Teaching – ESADE Barcelona, Nottingham University (UK), University St. Gallen and other universities at home and abroad.
2008-2015
Independent with Baur Consulting AG: Catalyst: “The Corporate Social Responsibility Story of Chiquita”
2015
AI & Ethics as a new topic: First keynotes and teaching assignments; since then regular invitations to podcasts and interviews.
2019
TedX Zürich: AI – Freedom within, and freedom without. About the central question of our time: How do we remain free when we delegate decisions to algorithms? Technology is here to serve us – not the other way around.
2020
AI & Sustainability – finally together: First keynotes connecting both focal points: Why AI doesn’t automatically promote sustainable development; and what it takes for it to do so.
2025
My Three Constants
Through all the twists and turns, whether I’m speaking on stage or providing strategic consulting, three constants run through my work.
-> More on my consulting: baurconsulting.ch.
Depth & Relevance
My work draws from various sources: academic research, years of consulting experience, teaching at universities. With this combination, I penetrate complex topics – without losing touch with practice.
Language & Precision
I work with language: precise, vivid, without jargon. Complex topics don’t need complicated sentences – they need clarity, structure, and a sense for the right tone. I bring things to the point; directly and without hedging.
Lightness & Humour
Ethical questions aren’t conveyed through stern lectures, but with humor; especially with difficult topics. Subtle irony creates accessibility without oversimplifying. My talks always make the audience think – and laugh.