Professor Simon began his academic career with a Diplom in Civil Engineering at the Technical University of Munich; he then studied economics at the FernUniversität in Hagen. In 2010, he obtained a doctorate in construction management from the University of Dundee.
Michael Simon has held positions at companies in construction and real estate and at the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. At KfW Bankengruppe, he was department director for technical facility management. From 2017 to 2021, he headed the City of Frankfurt Office for Construction and Real Estate. Since 2020, he has also been a managing partner of simon+savas, a company he co-founded. Prior to his academic appointment at HSRM, Michael Simon held the Professorship of Construction Project Management at IU International University.
What aspect of your research fascinates you the most?
I am fascinated by using technical excellence and strategic thinking to make a tangible impact – making buildings more climate-resilient, conserving resources and creating value for owners, administrators, operators and users.
What does good teaching mean to you?
Accessibility combined with academic rigor – students tackle practical challenges and learn to think integratively across structural, technical, organizational, legal and social perspectives.
What did you want to be growing up?
Design, technology and organization fascinated me from an early age. Designing spaces, improving existing structures and managing complex organizations remain central to my life today.
How do you find balance outside of work?
On my racing bike and in the mountains, because that’s where I clear my head and gain fresh perspectives.