Episode 2 – The “Android Of Automation” – How Bosch Rexroth Is Building A Partner Ecosystem

At the beginning of the episode, we talk about Hans-Michael’s journey in leading the partner management for an automation platform called ctrlX Automation. He highlights the shift in strategy towards focusing on platform building and partnering with external companies, which led to the successful establishment of a partner network with 90 partners in the ecosystem after three years.

We also talk about the challenges of building a community and engaging partners, emphasizing the importance of personal relationships and human interaction in a B2B setting. Michael shares insights into the technological innovations implemented in the platform, particularly the ease of data accessibility from OT devices and the significance of creating a strong product brand. The focus on scaling the platform and establishing it as an open industrial Android is a key goal, and the tech stack is continuously being improved to enhance the overall customer journey and experience.

Finally we talk about the importance of brand and design in the B2B context, and the efforts to attract talent and create a vibrant, engaging environment for both customers and employees. Michael’s passion and drive to succeed in the automation world are evident, and the episode highlights the ongoing efforts to improve the tech stack and infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of the platform and its users.

About the Podcast

Gain firsthand insights into the challenges and triumphs experienced by top executives, providing you with the knowledge and inspiration to effectively design, build, and expand your marketplace initiatives.  

Platform Disco has episodes in English and German with new releases dropping 7 AM CEST every Wednesday. To learn more, explore the individual episode listings below.

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Meet the Hosts

Alex Pesjak

VP, EMEA

Alex is a seasoned platform professional who is passionate about creating value in ecosystems and platforms. With a deep understanding of strategy, transformation, and innovation, he is driven by the vision of a thriving Ecosystem Economy across Europe and beyond. Pesjak specializes in aligning purpose, ambition, and circularity to create strategic frameworks that drive success. He is skilled in transforming legacy businesses while simultaneously leading ecosystems through agile and dual operating models.

Alex has a 20 year Brand and Innovation Background in Coca-Cola and Kraft Foods while working as a consultant for the last 12 years in the fields above. With a passion for creating value for all stakeholders, he is dedicated to driving the transformation to networked business models and organizations. Alex currently serves as McFadyen Digital’s VP, EMEA as a leader in their Strategic Advisory practice.

David Detjen

Sales Director

David is a digital professional with over 15 years in e-commerce as well as on the operator and partner sides of the equation in a variety of roles. This experience, both operating a platform in the form of an online marketplace, and serving in more of a consultative role, provides David with a unique perspective, able to “walk in the shoes” of far more than most while providing solutions.

Prior to joining McFadyen Digital, David honed his skills at the likes of Siemens, Arvatis, Mindcurv (Accenture Song), and Eccelerate, helping clients to transform their digital commerce capabilities. With McFadyen Digital, David continues this work leveraging the advantages of composable MACH approach to technology while utilizing the latest platform business models to provide scalable growth to his clients.

Peter C. Evans

Chief Strategy Officer

Before becoming the Chief Strategy Officer at McFadyen Digital, Peter Evans was a Managing Partner at the Platform Strategy Institute, a consultancy dedicated to management strategy and application of platform business models across a wide range of sectors. Dr. Evans has over 20 years of experience leading teams in identifying, framing, assessing, and communicating high-priority marketplace trends and disruptions that support business planning and investment prioritization.

Peter received his master’s degree and Ph.D. degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and is a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations and an International Academy of Management Fellow. He is also the co-chair of the MIT Platform Strategy Summit and the Founder of MusicTech Connect in Atlanta.

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