The title of honorary senator will be awarded annually by ESMT to no more than one outstanding leader. This person must embody ESMT's values and have made a lasting impact through their public service. This recognition is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to the well-being of society and the advancement of ESMT's mission. 

Christ, founder of the Harald Christ Foundation for Democracy and Diversity and chair of the consulting and investment firm Christ&Company, has long been committed to promoting democracy, diversity, and equal opportunity. He has also been committed to Germany and Berlin as locations for education and science for many years. His professional work in the fields of AI and ESG is also closely aligned with the values and goals of ESMT. 
 “It is an honor to work together with Harald Christ and to name him our first honorary senator,” said Jörg Rocholl, president of ESMT. “His unwavering personal commitment to fostering democracy and diversity reflects the core principles we uphold, and this honorary title is a testament to his invaluable contributions and our deep appreciation for his continued support.” 

“I have been closely associated with ESMT for a long time and particularly share the university's and Prof. Jörg Rocholl's commitment to promoting inclusion and innovation,” said Christ. The appointment as honorary senator therefore means a great deal to me and I look forward to many more forward-looking joint projects to further promote these values and Berlin as a university location.”

About Harald Christ
Harald Christ was born in Worms in 1972. In a professional career spanning more than 30 years, he has held management positions at various banks and insurance companies. He founded Christ&Company in 2003. The Berlin-based company combines consulting services and investment activities in future technologies such as AI, retail, real estate and other sectors. In 2020, he established the Harald Christ Foundation for Democracy and Diversity. As a testamentary foundation, it will make a contribution to strengthening fundamental democratic values beyond his own lifetime. Harald Christ is also active as a publisher, a lecturer at several universities and holds various honorary positions and supervisory board mandates. Harald Christ Stiftung für Demokratie und Vielfalt (demokratie-vielfalt.org)