Progress is real, but so is the uncertainty. A five-level framework helps leaders distinguish proven capabilities from emerging bets and sequence investments with discipline.
Education
- PhD, mechanical engineering, Aachen Technical University (RWTH)
- Dipl.-Ing. RWTH Aachen, MIT, SNU
- Dipl.-Wirt.-Ing., Fernuniversität Hagen
Tilman Buchner is the global lead for Boston Consulting Group's network of 11 Innovation Centers for Operations (ICO) with responsibility across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. He works at the intersection of technology, software, and large-scale transformation, and has in-depth expertise in industrial software and platform ecosystems. He is a recognized thought leader in software-defined automation and physical AI, and holds multiple software patents. With more than a decade of experience working with C-level executives at multinational corporations, Tilman has a deep understanding of what it takes to lead complex organizations through transformation in the digital era.
Tilman is a frequent keynote speaker and author on the impact of emerging technologies. He has built and led strategic partnerships with leading technology companies, as well as with academic institutions. In addition, he serves as advisor and coach to several corporate ventures and has acted as interim CEO/CTO for multiple DigitalBCG ventures. He has worked on engagements covering the full spectrum, from consumer-facing digital products to complex industrial systems.
Prior to joining BCG, Tilman held several senior technology and product leadership roles. These include director of engineering at BCG Digital Ventures, where he built the global engineering organization; Chief Mobile Officer at ProSiebenSat.1; Chief Technology & Innovation Officer at SevenVentures; and Head of Center for Mobile Products & Services at Scout24.
