Curriculum Vitae

Professional Summary

With over 20 years of professional experience and a broad range of experience in management functions as CTO, CPO and CEO, I have successfully managed business models in various industries such as MarTech, FinTech, AdTech and SaaS. As the founder of the first remarketing company in Germany with a successful exit, I have a proven track record in building and scaling companies. With 12 years of experience in the field of artificial intelligence, I also bring you in-depth expertise in this area. In addition to my role as an entrepreneur, I have gained experience as a managing director and interim manager in startups and cooperative environments, which underlines my versatility and ability to lead effectively.

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Summary

Philosphy

My philosophy

Success springs from
the mind's realm.

Thus, I remain discontent!

Work experience

2035-2035

CEO // Collect.AI

SaaS Fintech in Enterprise B2B
Founded in a cooperative venture of the Otto Group in 2016
Acquired by Advent Baked Aareal Bank in 2021
70 FTE

Successful Pivot from DebCollection Provider to SaaS Company
Implementation of new Goto-Market-Model incl. Repositioning
Won 50 Enterprise Clients
CAGR of 130% over 5 years
Building Platform Business Model
Successfully Sold to Advent International Backed Aareal Bank
Implementation of Bank Compliance System and Cybersecurity Measures
Implementation of Remote Work Company

2035-2035

Consultant

door2door.io: Revision of product strategy
Automotum: Consulting in the field of automated lead generation processes
LDB: Evaluation of various solutions for AI-supported call voice agents
Aafgroup: Architecture and SaaS product evaluation

2035-2035

CPTO // Collect.AI

SaaS Fintech in Enterprise B2B
Founded in a cooperative venture of the Otto Group in 2016
Acquired by Advent Baked Aareal Bank in 2021
70 FTE

Building a SaaS Platform from Scratch
Creating a Product Development Team of 30 People
Building a Data Team incl. Data Infrastructure
Implementing Agile Product Development Process
Development of the Order2Cash Platform Strategy

2035-2035

CTO // Emetriq

Data Driven AdTech Company
Founded in 2009
Acquired by Telekom Deutschland in 2015
100 FTE

Build Agile Tech Organization from Scratch (60 People)
AI & Data Driven High Performance Adtech Platform based on AWS
Handling 50,000 requests/s and 50 petabytes of data
Implementation of various machine learning services

2006-2009

Consultant & Interim Manager

Active as a consultant and interim manager for various companies. Including 1&1 in Karlsruhe, Acelor Mittal in Bremen, Advision in Hamburg and the IT service provider of the General Association of the Insurance Industry in Berlin/Hamburg.

2003-2006

Co-Founder Newtention (Next Audience)

As co-founder and technologist, I founded newtention extended networks with my partner in 2003, the first remarketing company in Germany. After successfully raising millions in fundraising through the VC boutique Neuhaus Partners, the company grew to a double-digit million turnover and to 70 employees. The company was successfully sold to Sinner&Schrader in Hamburg.

Work experience

Qualifications

Strategic analysis, decision making and prioritization

I understand the importance of strategic analysis and am experienced in applying SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis to gather relevant data and support strategic decisions. I can analyze complex problems using decision matrices or decision trees, evaluate options, and set priorities to achieve strategic objectives.

Competitive analysis and differentiation

I am familiar with competitive analysis and understand the importance of differentiation in the market. This includes applying Porter's Five Forces or Blue Ocean Strategy to analyze competitors and develop differentiated value propositions.

Market analysis and trend forecast

Market analysis and trend forecasting: I have knowledge of market analysis and trend forecasting to identify opportunities and risks early and make strategic decisions. This includes applying PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environmental) or scenario analysis to evaluate market trends and regulatory changes.

Development of business models and growth strategies

I am experienced in developing business models and formulating growth strategies. This includes applying the Business Model Canvas to visualize and optimize business models and using Ansoff's Matrix to evaluate expansion strategies and develop implementation plans.

Innovation management

I have knowledge of innovation management and am experienced in promoting an innovation-friendly culture and processes in the company. This includes the application of design thinking or agile methods for idea generation and development as well as the implementation of innovation projects using lean startup principles.

Portfolio and product strategy

Portfolio and Product Strategy: I understand the importance of portfolio and product strategies and am experienced in applying product life cycle analysis to evaluate the product portfolio. This includes applying the Boston Consulting Group matrix to identify growth opportunities and developing product strategies using Value Proposition Canvas to meet customer needs and secure competitive advantage.

Vision, Mission and Value Proposition

I am experienced in developing vision, mission and value propositions. This includes applying storytelling techniques to communicate the company vision and mission, as well as using the Value Proposition Canvas to develop differentiated offers that highlight the benefits to customers and stakeholders.

Organizational development and structuring

As an expert in organizational development and structuring, I deal with the analysis, design and optimization of organizational structures and processes in order to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the company. I have in-depth knowledge of conducting organizational analyses, change management methods and the implementation of new structures and processes.

Preparation of financial and capital requirement plans

I am experienced in preparing financial and capital requirements plans that provide a sound basis for financial planning and decision making. My methodological knowledge includes financial modeling, cash flow analysis and risk assessment to ensure the financial health of the company.

Budgeting and resource management

I have extensive experience in budgeting and resource management to ensure that financial resources are used efficiently and effectively. My methodological knowledge includes budget planning, cost control and resource allocation to achieve the company's financial goals.

Compliance and risk management

I have in-depth knowledge of compliance and risk management, including identifying, assessing and monitoring compliance risks as well as developing and implementing measures to ensure compliance with legal requirements and internal policies.

Project, stakeholder and time management

I have extensive experience in project management, stakeholder management and time management to successfully complete complex projects. My methodological knowledge includes project planning, risk management and communication techniques to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget and stakeholder expectations are met.

KPI management especially in the SaaS context

I specialize in the management of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) especially in the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) context. I understand the specific metrics that influence the success of SaaS companies and have experience in defining, measuring and analyzing KPIs to manage company performance and growth.

Introduction of corporate governance in the company

I have experience in introducing and implementing corporate governance practices and processes to improve corporate transparency, accountability and integrity. My methodological knowledge includes developing corporate governance policies, training managers and employees, and implementing control mechanisms.

Customers and audits in the financial and banking environment

I have experience in conducting client and audit audits in the financial and banking environment to ensure compliance with policies and standards. My methodological knowledge includes reviewing client accounts, identifying risks and developing recommendations to improve compliance.

Data protection & GDPR

I have knowledge of data protection and compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This includes developing and implementing data protection policies, conducting data protection impact assessments (DPIAs) and training employees in handling personal data in accordance with the requirements of the GDPR.

Building high-performance corporate cultures

I understand the fundamentals of building a high-performance company culture that aims to create an environment where employees can reach their full potential. This includes fostering trust, collaboration, openness and continuous learning within the team.

Modern performance management and goal-setting processes

I am familiar with modern performance management practices and goal-setting processes that aim to set clear and measurable goals, evaluate performance and provide continuous feedback to promote employee development.

Leadership development

I have expertise in leadership development, including identifying areas for development, providing training and coaching to strengthen leadership competencies, and supporting personal and professional growth.

Conflict resolution and crisis management

I understand the fundamentals of conflict resolution and crisis management and am able to develop and implement effective strategies to de-escalate conflict and manage crisis situations in order to maintain team well-being and productivity.

Change management and transformation

I am experienced in change management and in conducting transformation processes aimed at successfully planning, communicating and implementing organizational changes in order to strengthen the company's adaptability and competitiveness.

Feedback culture and processes

I promote a feedback culture in the company by giving and receiving regular and constructive feedback. This includes implementing feedback processes and tools to enable open and transparent communication.

Continuous improvement processes

I support continuous improvement processes in the company by applying lean principles and agile methods to optimize processes, identify bottlenecks and drive innovation.

Agile business processes and culture

I promote an agile company culture that encourages flexibility, collaboration and continuous improvement. This includes introducing agile methods such as Scrum or Kanban and creating an environment that supports innovation and experimentation.

Internal corporate communications

I have knowledge of internal corporate communications and am able to develop and implement effective communication strategies to share information transparently and promptly and to promote collaboration within the company.

Employee motivation and retention

I am experienced in motivating and retaining employees by creating an environment that promotes employee engagement, appreciation and personal development. This includes implementing incentive systems, recognition programs and training opportunities to increase employee satisfaction and retention.

IT security requirements (ISO27001, BSI Grundschutz, MaRisk, SOC)

I understand IT security requirements and standards such as ISO 27001, BSI-Grundschutz, MaRisk and SOC (Security Operations Center). This includes implementing security measures, conducting risk analyses and audits and ensuring compliance with security standards.

Highly scalable and event-driven service and system architectures

I am familiar with designing and implementing highly scalable and event-driven service and system architectures. This includes using microservices, event sourcing and CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation) to develop flexible and scalable systems that can respond to changing requirements.

Cloud and Infrastructure as a Service (AWS, Azure) including Cloud Native and Serverless

I have experience using cloud services and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) platforms such as AWS and Azure. I have developed cloud-native applications and implemented serverless architectures to maximize the scalability, flexibility and cost-effectiveness of systems.

Containerization and orchestration

I am experienced in containerizing applications with Docker and orchestrating containers with Kubernetes. This enables me to efficiently package, distribute, and manage applications to accelerate deployment and improve resiliency.

Service level agreements

I have knowledge of defining, negotiating and monitoring service level agreements (SLAs). This includes setting performance indicators, clarifying responsibilities and ensuring compliance with agreed service levels.

Software engineering methods such as CI/CD, test automation

I am familiar with software engineering methods such as continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) and test automation. This enables me to automate development processes, improve software quality and shorten time to market.

DevOps and Infrastructure as Code

I have experience with DevOps practices and Infrastructure as Code (IaC), which includes automating infrastructure processes, fostering collaboration between development and operations, and deploying systems as code.

API design and management

I have knowledge of API design and management. This includes developing RESTful APIs, documenting API specifications, and implementing API gateways to manage access control and versioning.

Domain-Driven Design

I am familiar with Domain-Driven Design (DDD) and its principles. This includes modeling business domains, defining bounded contexts, and implementing domain-driven design patterns to solve complex business problems.

Machine learning and data architectures

I have in-depth knowledge of designing and implementing machine learning architectures. This includes understanding different architectural styles such as pipeline, end-to-end and microservices for machine learning applications. I am familiar with selecting and integrating ML frameworks and libraries such as TensorFlow, PyTorch and scikit-learn as well as implementing scalable and distributed ML systems using cloud services and big data technologies. Furthermore, I am experienced in optimizing ML models for performance, scalability and security in production environments.

Statistical methods and modelling

I have extensive knowledge of statistical methods and modeling techniques. This includes applying descriptives, inferentials and predictives to data analysis, interpreting statistical results and developing prognostic models for decision making.

Machine learning and artificial intelligence

I am experienced in the fundamentals of machine learning and artificial intelligence. This includes understanding supervised, unsupervised and reinforcement learning, applying algorithms such as linear regression, support vector machines and neural networks, as well as developing and evaluating ML models for problem solving in various application areas.

EU AI Act

I have knowledge of the EU AI Act and understand the legal requirements and best practices it sets out for the use of artificial intelligence. This includes compliance with ethical guidelines, transparency obligations and data protection standards in connection with AI applications.

Pricing strategies

I understand different pricing strategies and can adapt them to a company's specific needs and target audiences. This includes setting prices based on value, competitive environment and customer willingness to pay.

Positioning and value proposition, product segmentation

I am experienced in developing positioning strategies and value propositions to highlight the unique selling point of a product or service. This includes identifying target customers, communicating benefits and value, and segmenting the market according to needs and preferences.

Customer and market segmentation

I have knowledge of segmenting customers and markets to conduct targeted marketing and sales activities. This includes identifying target groups, analyzing market segments and developing customized product offerings.

SaaS B2B Enterprise Sales

I am experienced in selling Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions to companies in the B2B segment. This includes identifying potential customers, conducting sales meetings, presenting product solutions and negotiating contracts at the enterprise level.

Definition of ICP, customer segments

I am experienced in defining the Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) and segmenting customer groups. This includes analyzing customer needs, behaviors and demographics to develop tailored marketing and sales strategies.

Product strategy development and implementation

I have experience developing and implementing product strategies aimed at supporting the company's long-term goals. This includes defining market segments, identifying growth opportunities and setting product development priorities.

Market analysis and customer needs analysis

I understand the importance of thorough market analysis and customer needs analysis to make informed decisions about product features and characteristics. My methodological skills include using surveys, interviews and data analysis to understand customer needs and requirements.

Product roadmapping and planning

I am experienced in creating product roadmaps and plans that guide product development. My methodological knowledge includes prioritizing features, estimating resources, and creating schedules.

Agile product development and Scrum methodology

I have experience in agile product development and applying the Scrum methodology to develop products iteratively and incrementally. My methodological knowledge includes organizing sprint planning and review meetings, using backlogs and continuously improving the development process.

Product lifecycle management

I understand the different stages of the product lifecycle and how to successfully manage products from conception to launch and beyond. My methodological knowledge includes monitoring product performance, competitive analysis and product updates.

Product metrics and KPIs

I am familiar with defining and tracking product metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure and evaluate the success of products. My methodological knowledge includes selecting relevant metrics, implementing analysis tools and deriving actionable conclusions from the data.

Requirements management and prioritization

I have experience in managing product requirements and prioritizing features to ensure that customer needs are met and product goals are achieved. My methodological knowledge includes requirements gathering, user story validation, and using prioritization techniques such as MoSCoW or Value vs. Effort.

Product launch management and execution

I am experienced in planning and executing product launches to ensure products are successfully launched and have maximum impact. My methodological skills include developing marketing plans, coordinating teams and monitoring launch metrics.

Software product marketing

I understand the principles of product marketing in the software space and how to position, promote and sell products. My methodological knowledge includes developing marketing materials, conducting market research and working with sales and marketing teams.

Fundraising & Pitching

I have experience in fundraising and pitching, which means I am able to raise capital for the company by developing compelling presentations and business models to appeal to potential investors. My methodological skills include creating pitch decks, identifying investors and negotiating financing terms.

Basic knowledge in venture capital

I have a fundamental knowledge of venture capital, which enables me to understand how venture capital investments work and identify potential funding opportunities. My methodological knowledge includes evaluating company valuations, analyzing investment criteria and understanding investment structures.

Participation in and conduct of due diligence

I have experience participating in and conducting due diligence reviews to evaluate potential investments or partnerships and identify risks. My methodological knowledge includes documenting due diligence reports, collaborating with legal and financial experts, and assessing business risks.

Shareholder reporting

I am experienced in shareholder reporting, which means that I am able to prepare regular reports and updates for investors and shareholders to inform them about the company's financial performance and strategic direction. My methodological knowledge includes preparing financial reports, analyzing key figures and communicating with stakeholders.

Shareholder and Board Meetings

I have experience in organizing and leading shareholder and board meetings to represent shareholders' interests and make important strategic decisions. My methodological skills include preparing agendas and documents, moderating discussions and following up on resolutions.

Strategic planning, shareholder communication and conflict management

I have experience in strategic planning, shareholder communication and conflict management to ensure that the company's objectives are clearly defined, shareholder expectations are met and conflicts are resolved effectively. My methodological knowledge includes developing corporate strategies, communicating with stakeholders and applying conflict resolution techniques.

Qualificatios

Soft Skills

Analytic Empathic Result-Driven Visionary Collaborative Supportive Excellence Out-Of-The-Box-Thinking
Direct Communication Strategic Ownership Innovative

What others about me say

I believe in the power of success through strong people Teams. The opinion of my peers is more important. Here you can find out a few short comments of my companions. Personal references are also available upon request.

As CEO and CTO Sebastian has been my supervisor in product management for over 8 years.

He possesses an exceptional blend of strategic insight, market understanding, and an innovative approach to technology. His ability to harness technology to solve business challenges is remarkable. He thinks outside the box and is always committed to achieving top-notch results.

Sebastian's management style fosters personal growth, and his direct communication ensures quick decisions. It creates a collaborative environment where innovation thrives.

I truly endorse Sebastian for any leadership role requiring vision, innovation, and results-driven leadership.

VP Product

I have had the privilege of working under Sebastian as my CEO and supervisor for almost 5 years, and I can confidently attest to his exceptional leadership qualities.
Sebastian is a visionary, market- and goal-oriented leader who consistently inspires his team to strive for excellence. He possesses a strategic mindset, adept at navigating complex challenges and guiding the team towards success.
His leadership style fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment, making him an invaluable asset to any organization.
I wholeheartedly recommend Sebastian for his outstanding leadership skills and dedication to achieving results.

VP Data

Sebastian has been my manager at Collect.AI for 7 years, first in the role of CTO and later in the role of CEO. He is an inspiring leader, entrepreneur and company builder for SaaS products. He has a very good sense for managing people, building long-term relationships and providing space to let them grow and take ownership. He is very strong in defining business and product strategies, quick in switching context, sharp in expressing complex topics in simple terms and experienced in data driven decision making leading and aligning people through goals and expectations. Additionally he is keen to understand technical details, likes to challenge technical solutions and provides guidance on the bigger picture. He is very familiar with current IT, architecture and software development trends.

Vice President Software Engineering

I have had the opportunity to work with Sebastian for the past 18 months in an environment characterized by growth, innovation and change.

Sebastian combines deep technical understanding with exceptional human leadership. He is at home in the world of cloud solutions and AI - he has an impressive ability to lead and guide start-ups and teams with empathy, vision and motivation.

What makes Sebastian so special is his ability to inspire everyone around him and get the best out of himself. He makes you feel part of something bigger, motivates you to innovate and excel, while creating an environment of trust and open communication. His priority is people – he listens, supports and encourages, always with the aim of growing and learning together.

His contribution is an asset to organisations, a blessing to anyone who has the chance to work with him. Sebastian's leadership style is special – he combines vision with humanity, which makes him a true role model. Following him is not only easy, but inspiring.

Chief Revenue Officer

Interests

In the pulsating rhythms of electronic music, I find my passion as a DJ . In between beats, I spend time in the gym, strengthening my body and mind through weight training . But my thirst for adventure doesn't end there. On the racetrack, I feel the thrill of non-professional kart racing , driving around corners at breathtaking speeds. Off the track, I discover another form of beauty in architecture and design, where structure and aesthetics inspire my creativity. These multifaceted interests shape my identity and enrich my world with sound, movement and beauty.

Interests

Curriculum Vitae

Professional Summary

My philosophy

Work experience

Qualifications

Strategic analysis, decision making and prioritization

Competitive analysis and differentiation

Market analysis and trend forecast

Development of business models and growth strategies

Innovation management

Portfolio and product strategy

Vision, Mission and Value Proposition

Soft Skills

Analytic Empathic Result-Driven Visionary Collaborative Supportive Excellence Out-Of-The-Box-Thinking Direct Communication Strategic Ownership Innovative

What others about me say

Interests

Analytic Empathic Result-Driven Visionary Collaborative Supportive Excellence Out-Of-The-Box-Thinking
Direct Communication Strategic Ownership Innovative