Thorsten Merkens

Background

About Thorsten Merkens

I’m a Strategy & Steering Director overseeing a nine-figure P&L in an owner-led travel tech environment. With a focus on EBITDA optimization, I strive to ensure sustainable profitability, while my passion for transformation has guided our evolution from a traditional platform into a truly customer- and product-first organization. When I recognized that our original structure was no longer fit for purpose, I spearheaded a comprehensive reorganization—aligning teams and processes around data-driven insights and user-centric principles. This approach not only boosts strategic agility but also fosters cross-functional collaboration, ultimately delivering tangible business outcomes. My leadership philosophy combines strategic foresight, empathy, and continuous improvement. I believe in empowering teams by asking the right questions, providing honest feedback, and fostering a culture of innovation. Beyond my director role, I’m dedicated to coaching professionals in leadership development, mindset shifts, and career transitions: helping them unlock their full potential. Curiosity and a passion for problem-solving drive me to constantly refine my approach. I believe that real organizational success begins with personal growth, and I apply this principle in both my leadership and coaching endeavors. When I’m not leading teams or coaching, you’ll often find me exploring new strategies and frameworks—always aiming to stay ahead in an ever-evolving business landscape. I’m looking to apply my strategic expertise and people-centric approach in senior leadership roles or advisory opportunities where I can drive customer-centric transformation and deliver tangible business outcomes. Let’s connect and explore how we can achieve extraordinary results together.