Director BU Hardware Sales
How long have you been in this position, and what led you to this role?
I have been serving as Managing Director for the Hardware Business Unit of the proLogistik Group since September 2021. The acquisition of Dataphone AG by the proLogistik Group, along with my intrinsic drive for growth and willingness to take on responsibility, led me to this role.
What do you particularly enjoy about your role as a Director?
Collaborating with and leading employees, as well as developing new hardware technologies and products, even beyond the supply chain.
Which topics and projects in your area are particularly exciting?
Cross-selling, the further development of the hardware business with international companies such as DSIA in France, and the development and implementation of an international marketing and sales strategy in alignment with the overall international strategy of the proLogistik Group. Managing international key accounts, developing new concepts, and innovating new hardware technologies and products beyond the supply chain industry.
What role does your department play in the overall success of the company?
We are all in the same boat, rowing and working in the same direction. The success of the Hardware Business Unit is a key factor in the overall success of the company. The ability to offer, deliver, and service both software and hardware from a single source provides significant added value, especially in the sales process. For a software manufacturer like proLogistik, this is a major differentiator compared to other ISV companies.
Which leadership principles are particularly important to you?
Mutual trust and commitment, realistic and shared goals, and management by objectives.
What do you expect from new colleagues joining your department?
100% commitment, intrinsic motivation, a willingness to go above and beyond, independence, reliability, honesty, and team spirit.
What motivates you to come to work every day?
Our highly motivated employees and team leaders, our innovative products, and the success we achieve with both new and existing customers.
What advice would you give potential applicants for a successful interview with you?
Complete application documents, punctuality, a well-groomed appearance, and thorough knowledge of the company, products, and services of the Hardware Business Unit. The applicant should come prepared with specific questions for the interview, have clear goals in mind, and be able to articulate and justify them.
What goals are you currently pursuing for your department, and what is your vision for its future?
Expanding the existing customer business and acquiring new customers across all segments to drive growth, create new jobs, and generate added value. Pushing cross-selling activities, optimizing workflow and organizational processes in sales, service, and marketing, ensuring accurate planning, and automating forecasts via Salesforce.
Fostering and motivating employees by providing long-term perspectives with increased responsibilities while continuously strengthening team spirit and cohesion.
Analyzing, developing, and implementing hardware innovations as well as new Hardware as Service (HaaS) models, which will play an increasingly important role in the future. Additionally, identifying and building new sales channels and partner networks.
How do you see the development of your industry in the coming years, and how is your department preparing for it?
The Auto-ID hardware industry is developing positively, with an average annual growth rate of 4-6%. At the same time, competition is increasing as more and more players enter the market.
To stay ahead, we closely monitor technological advancements in digitalization within the supply chain, identify opportunities early, and leverage our strengths to transform these into new projects that drive our business forward.
Additionally, we focus on continuous and targeted training for specialists, ensuring knowledge transfer from departing employees to new team members in preparation for upcoming generational shifts.