Farewell wishes on passing the baton

Covid-19 means there can be no farewell handshakes, so let’s go over your time with the university in an interview: David, what brought you to ETH in 2008?

David Müller, Head of Services: It’s not easy to take my leave of everyone at a distance, so I’m delighted to have this chance to look back at things. When I took on the role of Project Manager of Science City in 2008, I was keen from the outset to help shape a place like Hönggerberg. In those days, we were just a small group and got together for meetings at a round table.

Nowadays though we gather around several tables, and at several locations. What does Hönggerberg mean to you, so many years after your Science City stint?

My job with Services has meant I’ve been able to travel a lot and get to all corners of ETH. But I’ve always felt Hönggerberg to be my home. This is where I feel comfortable – somewhere urban but green – and the people are wonderful and exciting! It’s a unique location with loads to offer.

Who are the people that have shaped your path here?

Oh, the list is long – very long! Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to learn from many interesting people – from my superiors, my colleagues in other departments, and indeed all the Services staff. Through all of these I got to know ETH from a variety of standpoints. My encounters with members of the public and students on site have also made their mark. Whenever I moved around the campus or the buildings, I met people with whom I could have a quick chat, or a longer conversation; sometimes we’d just greet one another across the way. I’m grateful for the countless, inspiring conversations. It’s these discussions, exchanges and moments that I’ll miss.

With over 120 employees, no doubt you’re frequently greeted from across the way! Tell us how you’ve gone from working on a project team to heading a department with 6 sections…

Services spans many interfaces of the daily needs of a university. The key thing here is not size, but assisting our clients so that they can focus time and energy on their work and what they’re passionate about. I can compare my vision of the department with good service in a restaurant: competent, experienced staff will be aware of my needs right away. If I don’t need anything, they won’t stay at my table the whole time. In my opinion, what counts is standing by, with the capacity to react quickly. This calls for an understanding of the customer’s needs and the interplay between the various units, such as the kitchen. And the staff must like, or even love their job! Otherwise as a guest I won’t feel comfortable.

So is this what defines Services for you?

Yes, to a certain extent. I’m always amazed at the dedication of the staff in the various areas, and how they identify and feel solidarity with ETH Zurich. But, over the last few weeks, I’ve also become aware that the department resembles a family in some aspects – and I like that very much. Understanding and trusting one another are key. You have to know what the other person is doing and how you can support them. Things simply work better together!

What do you wish as you hand over leadership of Services?

I’m delighted that Stephanie Braunwalder will head the department ad interim, along with an experienced management team. Stephi has a good feel for customer needs, a clear idea of services and knows the interrelationships at ETH Zurich inside out.

As I pass the baton, I hope firstly that everyone will take good care of themselves, and whether in their private lives, at work, in a new or established team – and in whatever function – look out for each other. Secondly, I hope the staff will hold on to the joy of putting ideas into practice together. And thirdly, may they keep sight here of what’s beautiful and positive – which right now is not always easy.

On that note, I’d like to thank you very much for this interview.