Dr Thomas Franke

After studying chemistry and earning his doctorate in technical chemistry at the Alma Mater Lipsiensis in 1991, Thomas Franke spent the first years of his career dealing with the legacy and envi­ron­men­tal impact of the Russian Army during its withdrawal from the former East Germany. The topic of cont­a­m­i­nated sites and envi­ron­men­tal protection conse­quently shaped his further career, first for several years in the operational management of the Environment and Energy Division, then in the Business Development Division. With the experience of more than 30 profes­sional years, Thomas Franke, as Senior Business Development Manager, combines the operational require­ments from the business units at CDM Smith with those of the customers.

He also plans and manages complex projects for the remediation of cont­a­m­i­nated sites or is responsible for the controlling, steering and management of major projects.

In his free time, Thomas Franke enjoys traveling, photography and cycling. For more than 15 years, he has worked as an honorary judge at the Leipzig Labor Court. He also serves as honorary chairman of the board of trustees of the Leipzig Energy and Environment Foundation and is a member of the German Brownfield association (DEBV).

What inspires you? Exciting projects and inspiring teamwork with my colleagues and staff. We make a good team, working in an atmosphere of mutual trust and appreciation.

What does “listen. think. deliver.” mean to you? To me, it mainly means that whoever has a say in the matter should also be prepared to listen.

Why did you become a chemist? Because my father has taught chemistry to me at the kitchen table. His enthusiasm has passed on to me. In addition, the chemical industry is fascinating to me.

What makes your life richer? My family, friends and joint ventures.