Meet the Operations team, who are available for technical support for students and staff.
As a Leipzig native, Christian Schult received his academic training at Bauhaus University in Weimar, Germany. He is a certified advisor for foundations and non-profits and has gained experience in international environments for the past ten years. Among other things, he was involved in setting up a pan-European organisation dedicated to the freedom of the press and managed this organisation’s shelter programme for journalists at risk for several years. He joined Lancaster University Leipzig in March 2020 as its Campus Operations Manager and now holds the position of Campus Services Manager reporting directly to the Campus Director / Kanzlerin.
Robyn Zagaj comes from South Africa, lived and worked in the United Kingdom and moved to Leipzig, Germany in 2007. She holds a Master’s degree in Aviation Management, obtained from the Wildau Institute of Technology, near Berlin. As an aviation enthusiast, she has held a number of operations and finance related positions in the aviation industry. In her role as a Campus Services Officer, Robyn is responsible for tasks and queries related to finance department.
How did you find the job at Spread Group?
I met Spread Group at Lancaster University Leipzig at a career fair. I made good contact with them and we had an interview six months after the career event. During the job interview, people were really amazed at the projects that I had in my studies – especially last year’s project, which made me stand out.
What does the company Spread Group sell?
Spread Group is a tech-driven fashion company. We do print on demand in e-commerce. We are not only a selling platform, but we also allow people to sell their designs. In general, we are printing on textiles, cups, merchandise, etc.
What’s your task at this company?
I am a software engineer specializing in the backend. My team takes care of user-related data such as tax payment information we are also taking care of GDPR-related tasks – important for privacy of data. And last but not least we also take care of the design management system where we classify designers and allow them to have analytical data.
How did your studies prepare you for this job?
So I did my Bachelor’s degree in software engineering and specialized in backend during my studies. And of course, studies give us a broad knowledge of various kinds of topics from the first year to the last year. We had examples that we could apply to real-world scenarios – specifically our second and third-year projects got us ready for projects that we can apply outside of the university. So when I finished my studies I was able to apply all the knowledge into my work, into the software engineering world and it got me ready very well. The scale good bigger now of course, but the fundamental knowledge that gained from my university was very solid.
Do you still have some connections with your classmates or lecturers from LU Leipzig?
Of course, I have made friends in those years when I was studying. I attended an Alumni meeting with classmates and lecturers just a month ago. We had a really nice conversation catching up on what they are doing, and what I’m doing. And maybe at this year’s graduation, I will be there to support my greeting friends.
As an IT Support Technician, Kiran Thomson supports the team in all matters relating to IT solutions, issues and support. A English native, Kiran has spent most of his life in the UK, working for more than 10 years in B2C IT support. Kiran Thomson joined Lancaster University Leipzig in 2021 and helped its set-up on the new premises. In his current role, he supports the growing team and ensures that operations are running smoothly.
Peter, a recent graduate in German Studies from the University of Manchester, supports the Operations Team. With a background in customer service, he brings proven organisational skills, adaptability, an international perspective and enthusiasm for enhancing international educational experiences. He thrives in dynamic environments and excels at building connections with people from all backgrounds.
As a former MSc student at Lancaster University Leipzig, I had a truly rewarding experience that allowed me to grow academically and personally.
Now, as a Campus Services Officer, I am excited to be working in the same environment, providing support to incoming students and sharing my experiences to help them navigate their own journeys. It’s been fulfilling to contribute to the campus community and see the operations from a new perspective. I look forward to continuing to support the success and growth of Lancaster University Leipzig. I am passionate about helping create a positive and supportive atmosphere for all students.
