Daniel Kaneider studied at unibz, where he co-founded the startup WAMS. After setting up the distribution of FOND OF brands in Italy, he relocated to Cologne to take up the position of Head of International Sales at FOND OF. In early 2026, he returned to South Tyrol, bringing with him years of experience in international business development  development under his belt.

How does a startup project at unibz lead to an international sales career with a global company in Germany, and eventually bring you right back home?

In this Alumni Talk, Daniel Kaneider shares the story of his dynamic career journey, which began during his studies at the unibz when he co-founded the sock start-up WAMS. What started as an entrepreneurial adventure on campus soon turned into an unexpected bridge to international business. At an investor speed-dating event, he met one of the co-founders of FOND OF. This led to the creation of Supply Distribution, which was set up to manage sales for FOND OF brands across Italy.

This opened the door to his next chapter in Cologne, Germany, where he joined FOND OF’s international sales team and scaled up from Sales Manager to Head of International Sales. Having returned to South Tyrol earlier this year, Daniel reflects on the skills, mindset shifts and personal growth that defined his journey.

Key Takeaways and Discussion Topics:

• From Pitching to Partnerships: How student entrepreneurship and open-minded networking can open unexpected doors.
• The unibz & South Tyrolean Advantage: Why studying in three languages is a major superpower abroad, and how our region's reputation can work in your favour.
• Sales and Business Development: Key lessons learned from scaling brands in Italy to leading an international sales team in Germany.
• Personal Growth and "Two Homes": Building a life abroad, navigating two homes and deciding to return to South Tyrol.

This online event is for anyone who is curious about start-up life, corporate growth, or an international career.