ISTA Manager Preyer-Hochstrasser: 'We Can Still Shape It Now'

Ursula Preyer-Hochstrasser, now heading digital transformation and artificial intelligence at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), thrives on the potential for innovation in these evolving fields. "Now we can still shape it," she states, highlighting the opportunity to influence direction and define priorities.

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Now we can still shape it. What is important to us?

Her journey to ISTA was marked by a desire for impactful engagement, stemming from early involvement in the United Nations youth organization. Preyer-Hochstrasser values collaborative action, believing that implementing ideas is most effective with a team. This principle guided her career path, including significant roles at SAP, where she absorbed a culture of innovation as a fundamental approach rather than a project.

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It was always important to me to be able to act actively and not just as an observer.

Inspiration for Preyer-Hochstrasser is found globally and in unexpected places, from international experiences to the formula-filled whiteboards of ISTA researchers. She describes her leadership as trust-based and empowering, initiating team integration through workshops and shared activities to clarify purpose and mission. Her focus is on providing orientation rather than dictating answers, ensuring each member understands their contribution to the collective goal.

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I have a lot of ideas – and I can implement them much better if I have a team that works on them with me.

Preyer-Hochstrasser also champions "Respect-Focused-Time," recognizing the need for uninterrupted periods amidst rapid communication. This approach aims to balance efficiency with deep work, fostering an environment where both individual focus and collective progress can flourish.

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Just go out, be curious.