Katrin Sünderhauf: Shaping the Future of HR at DB International Operations

Katrin Sünderhauf is not just a name in the HR community; she is a force driving innovation and excellence at DB International Operations GmbH. With over 25 years of experience, she has shaped HR practices, ensuring they meet the demands of the business while staying ahead of HR trends.

A Career Built on Expertise and Innovation

Katrin’s journey began with a focus on work and organizational psychology during her studies. This laid the foundation that has guided her throughout her career. She started at an insurance company and became an expert in personnel selection and development. One of the most important lessons during this time was that “service management is people management.” She honed her skills as a business consultant in industries like insurance, car manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. At DB Group, she began her career at DB Academy, newly founded in 2003, to qualify top managers in business relations and managerial effectiveness. Later on, she focused primarily on talent acquisition, including recruiting, suitability diagnostics, and HR IT. She and her team manage key systems such as the applicant tracking system, job board, chatbot, and career site for DB Group. They are dedicated to designing processes from the perspectives of applicants, recruiters, decision-makers, and works councils, ensuring they are effective and user-friendly.

As Chief Human Resources Officer, she has led the transformation of HR processes, including implementing a fully digital selection process for dual students. This innovation reflects her commitment to making HR practices more efficient and accessible for both candidates and the organization. The decision to join DB International Operations GmbH and DB Engineering & Consulting GmbH was driven by her desire to influence global HR practices. “The role offered the chance to work closely with various stakeholders and make decisions that drive our global HR strategy forward,” she explains. Her impact has been profound, particularly in managing the international HR team for the DB E.C.O Group, where she implements consistent standards and processes across different regions.

A Vision for Leadership and Growth

Katrin’s leadership is defined by adaptability and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics. She values employees who approach their work with conviction and enthusiasm, believing that this dedication is key to success. Her approach to leadership is situational, adapting to the needs of her team to ensure they are supported and empowered to achieve their best. “I believe there is nothing that cannot be accepted, and nothing really gets me upset. Maintaining a steady and accepting attitude is key,” she says. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in developing leadership frameworks and performance metrics within DB International Operations GmbH. Her work in establishing governance structures and performance metrics has been instrumental in aligning the company’s efforts with its vision of becoming the leading international rail operator for operations and maintenance services. Over the years, she has also taken on external roles, including serving as a chairperson for nine years, during which she applied many of the skills and knowledge she gained at DB. "This experience has been instrumental in shaping my approach to diversity, change management, and leadership overall," she explains. "My career path at DB has been marked by continuous learning and growth, always guided by a strong commitment to our mission and values."

Transforming Rail Operations: Milestones in Leadership and Performance

In Katrin’s extensive career at DB International Operations GmbH and DB Engineering & Consulting GmbH, several defining moments stand out, reflecting a strong alignment with the company's vision of operational excellence and sustainable rail services. One of her key achievements has been guiding critical bid processes while ensuring the right talent was in place to support operations across DB International Operations GmbH's network. "DB International Operations GmbH functions as a collective of three interdependent companies," she explains. "My role involved overseeing the ramp-up of personnel and establishing strong C-level leadership, as well as implementing comprehensive management structures." These initiatives were crucial in driving performance improvements and creating streamlined processes across the organization. Katrin’s achievements underscore a commitment to advancing DB International Operations Group's vision, pushing for excellence in rail operations, and supporting global economic sustainability. Each milestone, she says, reflects the company's broader mission: to deliver exceptional rail services that contribute to sustainable economic growth worldwide.

A Dynamic and Agile Work Environment

Katrin describes the work environment at DB International Operations GmbH as dynamic and agile, with a culture that is competitive, forward-thinking, and sporty. What surprises her most is the resilience and adaptability of her teams. “Whether it’s navigating complex international projects or swiftly responding to unforeseen challenges, our employees consistently demonstrate an impressive ability to adapt and excel,” she says. This resilience, she believes, is a testament to the strength of the company’s culture and the dedication of its people.

Beyond the Office: Balancing Life and Work

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Katrin finds balance through sports, running, and spending time outdoors with her family. These activities help her maintain the mental and physical stamina required to lead such a dynamic organization. When asked if she would trade her job for another, her response is enthusiastic: “There’s no cooler job than mine!” However, she encourages others to apply to DB’s International Talent Pool, confident in the opportunities the company offers.

Driving the Future of HR

Katrin’s career at DB International Operations GmbH is marked by innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. Her work in transforming HR practices and developing leadership frameworks has not only shaped the company’s present but is also paving the way for its future. Under her guidance, DB’s HR practices continue to evolve, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the industry while staying true to its mission of delivering outstanding rail services and contributing to sustainable economies worldwide.