Transformation Every Day

Guest: 

•  Joshua Greenbaum - Principal - Enterprise Applications Consulting

Hosts: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions
• Johannes Langguth - Head of Business Transformation and Architecture - SAP SE

In this episode, Josh, Alex and Johannes deconstruct SAP's 2025 strategy, explore the evolution of SAP and the enterprise software landscape, discussing the importance of user experience, the role of enterprise architects, and the need for alignment between business and IT. They highlight the significance of ecosystem partners and the challenges of project implementation, particularly in data management. The discussion also delves into the impact of AI on business processes and the necessity for end-to-end solutions. Ultimately, the speakers emphasize the need for a shift in focus towards solving substantial business problems and the evolving role of technology in achieving these goals.

Takeaways:

• Key moments in SAP's history shaped the enterprise software landscape.
• Incremental changes dominate the software industry today.
• User experience must evolve with technology advancements.
• Enterprise architects play a crucial role in business transformation.
• Business and IT alignment is essential for project success.
• Ecosystem partners are vital for effective implementation.
• Data management is a common challenge in projects.
• End-to-end solutions are necessary for comprehensive business processes.
• AI can solve significant business problems beyond simple tasks.

Follow Josh here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuagreenbaum/

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guest: 

• Christine Grimm - Ex-DSAG Board Member, Founder dxfrontier

Host: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions

In this conversation, Alexander Greb and Christine Grimm discuss the critical need for transformation in business, particularly in the context of legacy systems and technology adoption. They explore the cultural mindset that often hinders progress, the role of technology in enhancing user experience, and the urgency to adapt to AI and new technologies. The importance of consulting partners in guiding companies through transformation is emphasized, along with the need for a focus on customer experience. Christine also shares insights about her new venture aimed at bridging gaps in the SAP ecosystem.

takeaways

• Transformation is essential for adapting to changing business environments.
• Legacy systems often hinder progress and innovation.
• Cultural mindset is a significant barrier to technology adoption.
• Technology should serve to enhance user experience, not complicate it.
• Consulting partners play a crucial role in guiding companies through transformation.
• The urgency to adapt to AI and new technologies is greater than ever.
• Customer experience should be prioritized in technology implementations.
• Leadership is critical in driving successful transformation initiatives.
• User groups can bridge the gap between SAP and its customers.
• Christine's new venture aims to simplify the SAP ecosystem.

Follow Christine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-grimm-422b3311a/

Follow dxfrontier: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dxfrontier/

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guest: 

• Eric Shaver - Managing Director - Kensei Partners 

Host: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions

Summary

In this conversation, Alexander Greb and Eric Shaver explore the evolving landscape of sales, particularly the transition from license-based sales to subscription models. They discuss the importance of financial literacy for sales professionals, the need for a strategic approach when engaging with executives, and the balance between educating customers and avoiding condescension. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in sales and the essential skills required to build an effective B2B salesperson. Ultimately, the discussion emphasizes the need for salespeople to focus on delivering value and understanding customer KPIs to drive successful outcomes. In this conversation, Eric Shaver and Alexander Greb discuss the complexities of navigating financial uncertainty in business, the evolving role of ERP systems in crisis management, and the importance of building trust through specificity in sales. They explore the impact of AI on sales processes, the shift from budget-focused discussions to value realization, and the future of digital selling versus traditional methods. The dialogue emphasizes the need for consultative selling skills and the challenges of selling services compared to software, ultimately highlighting the importance of collaboration between sales and services teams to drive revenue realization.

Takeaways

• Sales dynamics are shifting from license to subscription models.
• Understanding financial KPIs is crucial for effective selling.
• Salespeople must engage with executives on a strategic level.
• Educating customers should be done gracefully and without condescension.
• Building a B2B salesperson requires a mix of skills and knowledge.
• Sales skills should be secondary to understanding business value.
• The conversation should focus on financial returns, not just features.
• AI can enhance sales processes but should not replace human engagement.
• Salespeople need to listen more than they speak to understand customer needs.
• Navigating the sales conversation requires a balance between features and value. Experience can be cool; stability can be depth of networks.
• When money gets smart, investment strategies must adapt.
• Budgets should focus on optimizing margins, not just costs.
• ERP systems may not be the right tools for current crises.
• Guidance from software vendors is crucial during uncertainty.
• Salespeople need to demonstrate competency with specific examples.
• Killing the word 'budget' can shift sales conversations.
• AI is making repetitive tasks obsolete in sales.
• Digital selling models are becoming more prevalent.
• Consultative selling skills are essential for modern sales professionals.

This is Glengarry Glen Ross: 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glengarry_Glen_Ross_(film)

Follow Eric: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eshaver/

Listen to Eric's own podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/5lZ0ZSODcYak8lt07MakG3

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guest: 

• Michael Sokollek - Chief Enterprise Architect - SAP SE

Host: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions
• Johannes Langguth - Head of Business Transformation and Architecture - SAP SE

Today we dive past the buzzwords to treat Clean Core as an attitude and a practical operating model—from strategy to execution. We bust the “back-to-standard only” myth, map the five dimensions (processes, extensibility, data, integrations, operations), and show how governance and the right toolchain turn ERP from a cluttered basement into a system you can actually change.

You’ll learn:

• Why Clean Core is a spectrum (keep clean and get clean), not a binary state.
• How to run fit-to-standard with process deviation management and business-case-backed exceptions.
• Where partners, toolchains (incl. Signavio & EA content), and RISE architects fit in.
• How to align capabilities and custom code to decide what truly differentiates.
• The real risk of shadow IT—and how to prevent it with transparency and cadence.

If you’re staring at years of modifications, stuck on an S/4HANA move, or just want upgrades without nightmares, this episode gives you the guardrails, mindset, and first steps to get from talking to doing.

Takeaways

• Clean Core is a vehicle for agility and transformation.
• Governance and maturity are crucial for maintaining a clean core.
• The dimensions of Clean Core include processes, extensibility, data, integrations, and operations.
• Achieving a clean core is a journey, not a quick fix.
• Organizations must balance efficiency with effectiveness in their processes.
• The business model of SAP partners should focus on delivering value, not just selling days.
• Tools and technology play a significant role in achieving Clean Core.
• Understanding the current technical debt is essential for organizations.
• Organizations need to connect their custom code with business capabilities.
• The journey towards Clean Core requires a strategic approach and continuous improvement.

Follow Michael here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sokollek/

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

In this candid Q&A session, Johannes and Alexander dive deep into the complexities and realities of digital transformation with SAP.  Johannes joins Alexander to tackle pressing your listeners questions on how businesses can navigate SAP’s extensive product portfolio, manage transformation roadmaps, and prioritize cloud strategies.

They discuss the challenges customers face in simplifying SAP offerings and the importance of aligning transformation efforts with clear business goals rather than just cutting costs. The hosts highlight how cloud technology acts as a “personal trainer” for organizations, driving continuous improvement and innovation, while also touching on the evolving role of consultants who must now be business partners guiding change rather than just technical configurators.

The episode also explores how early-career professionals can break into the SAP ecosystem, emphasizing practical experience and the importance of embracing curiosity, especially around AI tools like SAP’s Joule. They reflect on overcoming rejection in career journeys with humor and wisdom, encouraging resilience and adaptability.

With transparency and frankness, Johannes and Alexander shed light on SAP’s marketing versus business realities, AI integration, and the future of enterprise software interactions. This engaging conversation offers valuable insights for SAP users, consultants, and anyone involved in digital transformation.

Takeaways:

• Companies must clarify their transformation ambitions to navigate complexity.
• The role of partners is crucial in simplifying transformation processes.
• Cloud solutions can drive performance but require a shift in mindset.
• Consultants should act as business partners, guiding clients through change.
• Rejection in job applications is common and should be viewed as feedback.
• Early career professionals should focus on gaining real-life experience.
• Change management is essential for successful SAP implementations.
• The importance of communication skills in consulting cannot be overstated.
• AI tools like Jewel can enhance user interactions with systems.
• Owning a topic or a number can significantly boost career advancement.

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guest: 

• Torren Bischoff - VP Business Process Transformation - Giesecke+Devrient GmbH

Host: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions

Description:

In this episode of Transformation Every Day, Alexander Greb sits down with Torren Bischoff, VP of Business Process Transformation at Giesecke+Devrient (G+D), a global leader in digital security and payment solutions. With a legacy spanning over 170 years, G+D has evolved from printing physical currency and producing SIM cards to becoming a best-in-class digital champion, leveraging the latest SAP technologies to drive their transformation.

Torren shares invaluable insights into how G+D approaches digital transformation as a core business imperative—not just an IT project. From migrating legacy ERP systems to SAP S/4HANA, to adopting a mix of brownfield and greenfield strategies, G+D balances innovation with operational stability. Hear about their Phoenix program, executive-level commitment, and the critical importance of change management and people-centric processes in achieving transformation success.

Whether you’re embarking on your own digital journey or seeking best practices from a proven leader, this episode offers actionable advice on aligning technology, process, and culture to unlock the full potential of digital transformation.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Giesecke+Devrient transitioned from physical to digital products, including the move to eSIMs and digital payment solutions
• The business-driven approach behind their SAP S/4HANA migration and the role of executive sponsorship
• The importance of balancing technology with the human element in transformation initiatives
• How G+D selects between brownfield and greenfield implementation strategies based on business needs
• Lessons learned about governance, organizational alignment, and change management
• Practical advice on starting, managing, and sustaining complex transformation programs

About Torren Bischoff:
Torren brings a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership experience, including a career as captain in the German Air Force and extensive roles across telecommunications, aerospace, and digital security industries. At G+D, he leads business process transformation efforts that help the company stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Follow Torren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/torrenbischoff/

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guests: 

• Jasmin Weimüller - Head of AI Enablement - BASF
• Kate Nazarova - Senior Data Scientist - BASF

Host: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions
• Johannes Langguth - Head of Business Transformation and Architecture - SAP SE

Episode Summary:
In this insightful episode, Alexander Greb and Johannes Langguth sit down with Jasmin Weimüller and Kate Nazarova, seasoned data scientists from BASF and hosts of the popular podcast "Diaries of a Data Scientist." They delve deep into the realities of data science beyond the buzzwords, discussing how AI truly impacts business, the practical daily routines of data scientists, and the critical importance of bridging technical and business expertise.

Highlights:

• The Intersection of Passion and Profession
  Jasmin and Kate share their journeys into data science, revealing their genuine passion for problem-solving, mathematical curiosity, and the thrill of discovery.
• Day in the Life of a Data Scientist
  A realistic glimpse into the roles of team lead and senior data scientist, highlighting responsibilities ranging from stakeholder communication and strategic decision-making to hands-on coding and project management.
• Beyond the AI Hype
  The guests address common misconceptions about AI and stress the importance of statistical and mathematical foundations, underscoring that true data science expertise goes far beyond simple prompting or using AI tools.
• Bridging the Gap between Business and Technology
  An essential conversation on why both technical and business roles must understand each other's domains better, emphasizing empathy, collaboration, and clear communication to achieve meaningful transformations.
• AI Integration in Business Processes
  The episode discusses how businesses should strategically approach AI, distinguishing between incremental automation and transformative innovation, as well as handling critical "make or buy" decisions effectively.
• Advice for Consultants and Vendors
  Practical advice for system providers and consultants on how to genuinely deliver value and authenticity rather than simply riding the AI hype wave.

Key Takeaways:

• AI projects succeed through a balanced collaboration of technical expertise and clear business strategy.
• Empathy and clear communication between tech and business teams are crucial for effective AI adoption.
• Early engagement and incremental learning with AI lead to long-term organizational maturity and innovation capabilities.

Connect with Jasmin and Kate:

• Follow Jasmin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmin-weimueller-bsc2018/
• Follow Kate: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-nazarova-data-science/
• Listen to "Diaries of a Data Scientist": https://open.spotify.com/show/1DAelRe22W8vBHK7rTU361
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DiariesOfADataScientist

Subscribe and Follow:
Stay updated and subscribe to the Transformation Every Day podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major podcast platforms.

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guests: 

• Harald Sulovsky - Founder and former CEO - cbs corporate business solutions
• Rainer Wittwen - CEO - cbs corporate business solutions

Host: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about startups — it’s also about building lasting companies that transform industries. In this special episode of Transformation Every Day, we sit down with Harald Sulovsky, founder and former CEO of CBS Corporate Business Solutions, and his successor Rainer Wittwen, CEO of CBS. Together, they share the fascinating journey of growing CBS from a small SAP consultancy into a global powerhouse with 1,600 employees and over 300 million euros in annual revenue.

Hear firsthand how Harald’s passion for business process consulting and technology sparked the creation of CBS back in 1993, how the company navigated market shifts and technological revolutions, and how a strong culture and visionary leadership have fueled its sustainable growth. Rainer reflects on stepping into the leadership role and driving CBS forward through today’s digital transformation landscape.

This episode also celebrates CBS’s 30th anniversary and upcoming event featuring SAP CEO Christian Klein as a special guest, marking three decades of innovation and excellence in SAP consulting.

Whether you’re a founder, consultant, or business leader, this conversation offers valuable lessons on scaling a consulting firm, embracing change, and delivering real transformation at scale.

Tune in for an inspiring look beyond startups — entrepreneurship through the lens of one of the most successful SAP consulting firms in the world.

Follow Harald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harald-sulovsky-971b6216/

Follow Rainer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rainer-wittwen-64a45475/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

01:54 Economic Forecasts and Business Strategies

02:54 Founding CBS: The Journey Begins

10:02 Challenges in Consulting: Lessons from the Past

16:41 Building a Team: The Importance of Culture

23:41 Navigating Change: Adapting to New Technologies

29:16 The Role of Consultants in Business Transformation

36:17 Education and Training: Investing in Future Talent

44:08 Growth Strategies: Organic vs. Acquisitions

52:04 Conclusion: Reflections on CBS's Journey

54:55 Navigating Partnerships and Strategic Decisions

01:00:10 Global Expansion and Strategic Growth

01:06:22 Innovations in Data Management and Migration

01:13:04 The Transformation Philosophy of CBS

01:18:21 Leadership Transition and Succession Planning

01:27:19 Reflections on Leadership and Future Vision

01:33:11 The Impact of AI on Consulting

01:38:02 The Simplicity of Transformation

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guest: 

• Geoff Scott - CEO - ASUG (Americas SAP Users' Group)

Hosts: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions
• Johannes Langguth - Head of Business Transformation and Architecture - SAP SE

In this episode of Transformation Every Day, Alexander Greb and Johannes Langguth sit down with Geoff Scott, CEO of ASUG, fresh off Sapphire 2025. They discuss the changing tone at this year’s Sapphire event—from a modest keynote launch to a focus on clarity rather than hype amid a complex global landscape. Geoff shares his perspective on navigating geopolitical uncertainty, market reactions, and why realistic conversations around AI, clean core, and cloud strategy matter more than ever.

The conversation dives deep into the real challenges of SAP adoption: the ongoing migration from ECC to S/4HANA, the trade-offs between lift-and-shift and greenfield implementations, and the widening gap between rapid technology advances and enterprise readiness. Geoff also explores the evolving role of enterprise architects, highlighting the complexities of their mission to bring order to sprawling, ever-changing technology portfolios.

Wrapping up, Geoff previews ASUG’s upcoming hands-on events, local chapters, and community initiatives designed to empower SAP customers to move forward confidently in 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re tackling digital transformation, AI integration, or cloud migration, this episode offers honest insights and practical advice from a leader deeply connected to the SAP community.

Follow Geoff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-scott-ugs/

Check out ASUG: https://www.asug.com/

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma

Guest: 

• Prof. Marek Kowalkiewicz - Author,  Prof. and Chair Digital Economics, Queensland University

Hosts: 

• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions

In this engaging conversation, Professor Marek Kowalkiewicz and Alexander Greb explore the profound impact of algorithms and AI on our lives, businesses, and the future of work. They discuss the importance of understanding these technologies, the role of curiosity in driving innovation, and the need for education and literacy in navigating the changes brought by AI. 

Marek shares his journey from SAP to academia, emphasizing the significance of consulting in the age of AI and the potential for new job opportunities alongside the challenges of redundancy. The conversation highlights the necessity of embracing change and fostering a collaborative relationship between humans and AI.

Follow Marek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marekkowal/

Follow Alexander: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb/
Follow Johannes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth/

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma