Welcome Stefan !

This is your Bits & Pretzels Journey

Stefan Mesken

Chief Scientist, DeepL

About:

Stefan Mesken, a lifelong science and technology enthusiast, studied mathematics and computer science at the University of Münster, where he also worked as a researcher before taking on a full-time role as a data scientist to start his career in tech. He transitioned into the AI space in 2018, and joined DeepL’s research team in 2020. As Chief Scientist, he shapes the strategy and prioritization of DeepL’s research agenda and coordinates large-scale research initiatives while aligning research goals with engineering and product teams. Stefan is passionate about building world-class AI communication tools, backed by cutting-edge research.

Ticket Category: VIP

Monday, September 29th - Conference Day 1

2:05 PM - 2:35 PM I Learning Stage

Tuesday, September 30th - Conference Day 2

Briefings

In the briefing, you’ll receive all essential information about the event and its surroundings — everything you need to feel well-prepared and confident throughout the experience.

Get your Briefing

Your Agenda

Monday, September 29th, Conference Day 1

Time

8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Conference Day 1

Immerse yourself in a day filled with visionary keynotes, hands-on masterclasses, and exclusive networking opportunities.

02:05 PM to 02:35 PM

In the fast-paced world of AI, achieving technological breakthroughs is only half the challenge — the other half is building and scaling a performance culture that makes them possible. Since DeepL’s founding in 2017, its research team has grown from a handful of scientists into a global force, navigating rapid innovation cycles, ambitious product goals, and evolving definitions of high performance. In this talk, Stefan Mesken, Chief Scientist at DeepL, shares first-hand lessons on fostering a culture where excellence, adaptability, and innovation thrive together. He will highlight the leadership principles, team practices, and individual skills that proved decisive in creating a lasting high-performance environment — offering practical insights for leaders shaping teams and organizations in the AI revolution.

6:45 PM to 11:00 PM

VIP Dinner at Schottenhamel, Oktoberfest

Enjoy our unique VIP Dinner Experience. At the heart of Oktoberfest, where tradition and innovation collide in the oldest of all tents. Please note: the VIP Dinner is invite-only, no +1s allowed. Important: Dinner requires registration via the invitation; this is not a confirmation.

Tuesday, September 30th, Conference Day 2

Time

8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Conference Day 2

Experience deep-dive discussions, interactive panel talks, and curated matchmaking sessions that bring together the brightest minds in business and innovation.

5:30 PM to 9:30 PM

VIP Dinner at Teatro-Spiegelzelt

The evening promises high-level networking in an exceptional venue, accompanied by exquisite cuisine. Please note: the VIP Dinner is invite-only, no +1s allowed. Important: Dinner requires registration via the invitation; this is not a confirmation.

Wednesday, October 1st, Oktoberfest Day

Time

10:00 AM to 10:45 AM

Table Captain Networking

Doors open. Guests arrive and find their tables

10:45 AM to 11:30 AM

Table Captain Networking: Round 1

The first 45 minutes of Networking. Afterwards there is a 15 minute break for the attendees to switch tables.

11:45 AM to 12:30 AM

Table Captain Networking: Round 2

The guests should have rotated their table by now, the second round of Networking starts.

Social Media Graphics

Share it on social media to announce your role at Bits & Pretzels 2025 and tag #Bits25. If you want to get the most out of this, here are our tips to boost reach & engagement:

Add the Hashtag #bits25 and mention @Bits&Pretzels so we can  interact with your content.
Mention any fellow speaker/table captains who are also attending
Mention what companies/people you are excited to meet at Bits

Social Media Posts - LinkedIn

Open

Social Media Posts - Instagram

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Your Ticket

Your ticket grants access to all three days of the event.
Please use the exclusive VIP/Speaker check-in at Entrance West (badge collection with ticket + valid ID).
Note: short waiting times may occur on Monday morning.

Your Presentation

Upload Guidelines for Presentations

If you have a presentation, please ensure that you submit your materials/files in a single zip folder containing the following:

1. Presentation File:

Keynote file 16:9 (1920x1080px) or PowerPoint file (.pptx, 1920x1080px).
Please make sure all fonts and videos are embedded within the file, if applicable.

2. PDF File:

A PDF version of your presentation with all fonts embedded.

3. Fonts:

Any custom fonts used in your presentation (please include the font files).

4. Videos:

All videos included in the presentation must also be provided separately.
Format: 16:9 aspect ratio, 1920x1080px (Full HD).
File type: MP4 or .m4v.

Deadline: All presentation materials must be submitted no later than September 17th, 2025.
This is necessary to allow our technical team to review and test the presentations in advance.