From running shoes to the business suit, Daniel P Gottschall’s career path has been led by his instincts to get him to where he is today. The former VP at the cutting-edge manufacturer of premium sports equipment, HEAD, transformed from a semi-pro athlete to an experienced businessman. Here is how he stayed on track with his career…
“Everything I know, I learned from scratch by doing. I simply followed my heart, my gut and my seven senses”
Tell us about your first career move?
The day when I decided to retire from my semi-pro career as an international competing track & field athlete and traded my running spikes with a business suit.
Was Sportswear something you have always wanted to be in?
I cannot say this. I started out my career in Sports Marketing and everything was pointing towards a public relation / communication career. Only then when I decided to explore the other side of the marketing spectrum, I.e. making money vs. investing money, I found myself having to choose between a footwear development or a sports apparel role. The sportswear one was better paid, and so it all started with a rather opportunistic decision of mine.
What did you study?
I never formally went to a university and I do not own an academic degree. Everything I know I learned from scratch by doing. I simply followed my heart, my gut and my seven senses. And by the way, when working with people from every corner of the world and that for 30 years, you become a master of the university of daily experience. In my opinion a money can’t buy a degree.
Is there a degree you wish you had studied, which would be useful in the job you do?
I am always inspired by people that are artistic and create things or visions by drawing it down on a piece of paper.
You are a perfect example of..
”What one means when saying this person is hands on”
What advice would you give to young people who want to turn their passion into a career, like you did?
Always stay hungry, humble and human.
“Two great brands coming together… combining the best of both worlds.”
In your opinion, what is the added value these big moves bring to your profile on the market?
It demonstrates readiness to accept and face constant new challenges and not becoming too accustomed and complacent.
If you wouldn’t be in sportswear industry, where would you be?
Hands down, the music business.
Why the music sector?
Why the music industry? Because I love music and that since childhood. Grew up in a signing family of beautiful voices. My grandma sang, my mum still does and so do I. I like to sing and dance around in my spare time. Back in school I was member of the school orchestra and also the school DJ. Wanted to be a music channel presenter with MTV or music promoter but I always got rejected…
What has been the most exciting challenge in your career?
The rather unusual, unique and unexpected collaboration between the Reebok brand and the house of Armani. Who would have ever thought that these two great brands would come together in a collaborative spirit building sports fashion products across footwear and apparel combining the best of both worlds. They did, and for the cross functional team on the Reebok side, that I had the pleasure of leading, it was a time of soaking up the flair at Via Borgonuovo 11 and to see “Il Maestro” itself at work – even though a lot swearing was involved.
What are the 3 skills you must have to perform as a VP?
1. Solve problems and analyze issues
2. Display high level of integrity and honesty
3. Inspire and motivate others
“Always stay hungry, humble and human.”
THE INSIDER
Favourite sport? Running.
Your work philosophy? I believe in fair play, the empowerment of the individual and leading by example.
Your go-to sportswear item My navy heathered G-STAR tapered jog pant.
Hobbies outside work? The great outdoors, i.e. mountain sport activities and riding my monster MTB.
Want to read more about the voices behind the industry? Click here to read more of our inspiring success stories, or check out our blog for career tips and fashion news.