Dr Christoph Drechsler 1965 - 2022

Dr Christoph Drechsler joined the accounting faculty at UCD College of Business on 1 September 2002 following completion of his PhD in Management (Major: Managerial Accounting and Control) from Hautes Études Commerciales (HEC), Paris. Previously, Christoph worked with Trinkaus & Burkhardt, Düsseldorf (now part of HSBC) as a credit analyst.

Christoph’s primary research areas were in management accounting and control. His research interests spanned two areas: First, the diagnosis and design of performance measurement and control systems, especially judgemental effects of balanced scorecards in performance evaluation and the uses of performance measures for evaluation versus decision-making. Second, organisational environmental decision-making, particularly trade-offs organisations make when choosing between investing in protection of the natural environment versus enhancing the organisation’s financial performance. In addition to his contributions to the academic literature and debate, Christoph worked closely over the years with multiple organisations as they grappled with these issues, and this practical experience greatly enriched his teaching.

Christoph was a dedicated educator who inspired a generation of students ranging from those just beginning their business studies to experienced professionals. He had a huge passion and enthusiasm for his discipline which left a lasting impression on students and colleagues alike. His intellectual curiosity and depth of expertise was brought to bear in shaping his teaching and research activities, in line with his strong belief of the importance of a close connectedness between the worlds of theory and practice. Beyond the classroom, Christoph was also very committed to his role as mentor, investing considerable time with students advising them on their career options and nurturing their interest in business.

Amongst his many contributions to the UCD College of Business, Christoph led the foundation of the MSc in Strategic Management Accounting (now the MSc in Accounting and Financial Management) in 2010. The programme was initially designed in association with the Chartered Institute of Management Accounting to educate future accounting and management professionals. Christoph served as Academic Director of the programme for many years. He also led the teaching of Management Accounting on the MBA programme for many years and was the lead UCD faculty representative in the global CEMS alliance concerning environmental management.

Professor Anthony Brabazon, College Principal and Dean of the UCD College of Business said, “Christoph’s loss will be deeply felt throughout the College of Business, by the wider UCD community, and by his family, many friends and colleagues within and beyond Ireland. Christoph was a gifted academic, devoted to his students, with an intellectual vigour which inspired and influenced many. He was also great fun and a wonderful friend. He will be deeply missed.”

Throughout his extensive career in academia, Christoph greatly supported the development of the Accounting Subject Area, the College of Business and the wider University. This was only one facet of his many accomplishments and achievements. Christoph was much more. His enthusiasm, good humour and generosity made him a great and loyal friend to many within and outside UCD.

Christoph will be sadly missed by a very wide and cherished community in Dublin and far beyond.

The UCD Community’s thoughts are with his two brothers, his extended family and all those who are missing Christoph at this time.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.