Igor Schwarzmann
Research & Strategy
"THE NEW" is more than a buzzword—it's a lens through which I approach everything I do for my clients. 

In an ever-evolving world, it could be an emerging technology like Artificial Intelligence, a cultural shift redefining consumer expectations, or a market trend reshaping entire industries. Each client's focus shapes "THE NEW" they need to grasp and master.

With a Third Culture upbringing, I've developed both a global perspective and a natural ability for pattern recognition—seeing what others might overlook. Growing up between cultures taught me to decode undercurrents and transform seeming contradictions into cohesive understanding. I view human behavior as a network of interconnected signals, uncovering deeper patterns of change that often remain invisible to others.

Whether advising on cultural shifts or guiding organizations through technological evolution, I bring this perspective to every project, translating complex insights into actionable strategies. My work isn't about predicting the next trend—it's about equipping clients to anticipate and lead, helping them find their distinct voice in a crowded, fast-moving market.

Find me on Linkedin or Instagram. You can also schedule a call or write me an email.



Public Speaking

Photo: Dennis Horn

Over the last decade, I have spoken at more than 50 public and internal events, both as a keynote speaker and an expert panelist. 

I speak on a range of emerging trends and cultural shifts, focusing not just on the trends themselves but also on how we navigate the increasing difficulty of understanding and integrating them into coherent strategies. 

Highlights from public speaking engagements:
2024: re:publica 
Talk + Panel: From Trends to Decision Making – Case study

2023:  DLD AI Summit 
Talk + Workshop:  Futures of Artificial Intelligence

2019: Zündfunk Kongress
Talk: New Narratives for Germany

2017: Vienna Future Day
Keynote:  Responsive Innovation

2016: Impact Hub Odessa
Talk + Workshop: Building a sustainable Startup Ecosystem

2011: SXSW
Talk + Panel: How does Science Fiction influence our Cities?

Looking for a speaker who bridges emerging trends with actionable strategy? From SXSW to corporate boardrooms, I help organizations navigate and implement "THE NEW."

Let's explore how we can work together. Email me.



Media 

Since 2007, my expertise has been featured in over 300 media clippings. I've appeared multiple times on television channels such as ZDF and ntv, and have been quoted extensively in regional and national newspapers & radio stations across Germany and the United States. My insights have been sought by prominent publications including The New Yorker, The Verge, The Guardian, and the New York Times.