René Puls is an aerospace executive, economist, and educator with over 25 years of experience in corporate finance, business development, and aerospace innovation. He has played a key role in advancing strategic initiatives across government, academia, and industry, and is recognized for his leadership in business transformation, the commercialization and promotion of space.

·       Early Life and Education:
René Puls completed vocational training in aviation business and controlling in Germany. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Zurich, an MBA from Troy University, and a Doctor of Business Administration from Walden University, where he focused on strategic finance and aerospace-related topics.

·       Corporate and Financial Career:
Puls began his career in finance and project management roles at Credit Suisse and IBM, where he led global business transformation projects, financial planning, and operations strategy across Europe. At SOCAR Energy Holdings, he focused on strategic planning and corporate performance initiatives.

·       Aerospace Sector Leadership:
Until 2024, Puls was Managing Director of the Swiss Aerospace Cluster, where he led technology transfer programs, international outreach, and aerospace events including the Aerospace Innovation Days. He also served as Co-Director of the Center for Aviation & Space Competence at the University of St. Gallen.

·       Academic Engagement:
Since 2019, Puls has been a senior lecturer at the University of St. Gallen (HSG), advising on research and innovation in aviation and space within the Master of Business Innovation and International Management programs. In 2023, he joined the European Space Agency (ESA) as a Visiting Professor, contributing to ESA’s Talent Development Program and the Directorate of Commercialisation.

·       Entrepreneurial Activities:
In 2024, Puls founded PRORES Aerospace / Solutions, offering strategic advising, education, and event services in aerospace. He is also the co-founder of the Aerospace Innovation Booster (a finalist in the Swiss Innosuisse INNOBOOSTER program) and an active mentor in the start-up ecosystem.

·       Other Achievements:
Puls serves as President of ORBIT FOR LIFE, a Swiss-based life sciences space promotion agency (2025), and is a Board Member of ESA’s European Centre for Space Economy and Commerce (ECSECO)