As I am passionate about practising different kinds of sports like ski touring, hiking and running, I decided to produce sports footwear, initially for my own use. After running a marathon with my own made-to-measure running shoe, I started to develop bespoke mountain boots based on that first model.

Receiving direct and honest feedback from my customers, being able to realise my own ideas and designs and having the chance to create a tangible object after a day of working hard – all these elements are important for finding personal fulfilment in my job.

Winning my first gold medal for shoemakers and creating my first shoe out of python leather were two of my most special moments. But even in moments of great success you should never forget how demanding it is to attain perfection in craftsmanship. It takes years and years of practice, so complacency always is a dangerous way to go.