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Prof. Dr. Rulf J. Treidel is a university lecturer, course developer and tourism expert with many years of experience in the design, implementation and internationalisation of study and continuing education programmes in tourism. Since 2012, he has been teaching tourism management at the Fachhochschule des Mittelstands (FHM) in Bielefeld, where he plays a key role in developing practical, future-oriented curricula. Another focus is on business start-ups and entrepreneurship. As Academic Director for Erasmus+ study programmes, he is also responsible for international networking and the strategic development of European educational cooperation. As co-founder of Deep Travel, he wants to help key players in the international tourism industry recognise and exploit the opportunities offered by innovative developments and pass them on to employees through further training.

His work focuses on the development of innovative study and training content for the tourism industry—particularly with regard to Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), sustainability, digitalization, and lifelong learning. Prof. Dr. Rulf J. Treidel designs modules and degree programs for both full-time and part-time students, consistently integrating current industry requirements, the European Qualifications Framework (EQF), and modern pedagogical approaches. His profile includes the use of digital learning formats, micro-credentials, gamification elements, and accessible online offerings, as well as the close integration of theory and practice.

Through numerous projects funded by Erasmus+ and German federal ministries, he develops innovative professional development formats for the European tourism sector. these include programs for the sustainable transformation of tourism businesses, leadership qualification in SMEs, and the implementation of micro-credentials in the fields of Green Tourism and Vocational Education and Training (VET). His project work combines academic excellence with a clear focus on practical application, promoting the strategic positioning of universities within the “Third Mission” as active partners in regional and international development.

Prior to his academic career, Prof. Dr. Rulf J. Treidel spent over two decades in senior management roles within the tourism industry, including serving as Director of Product for Cultural Tourism at Gebeco (TUI). This extensive industry experience directly informs his teaching and development activities. He is equally well-versed in the requirements of international markets and the challenges of sustainable business models in rural areas.

With an academic background in Economic and Intellectual History and his international experience, Prof. Dr. Rulf J. Treidel combines strategic thinking with cultural sensitivity and a European perspective. His objective is to develop educational and training programs that sustainably strengthen the tourism industry, foster innovation, and specifically prepare professionals and executives for the sector’s ongoing transformation.