Strategy interview in the live podcast with Rüdiger Rath, CEO CANCOM
In the latest episode of "Hope is not a strategy", we welcome Rüdiger Rath, CEO of the CANCOM Group. CANCOM is a leading digital business provider and a TecDAX company in the DACH region. In this exciting episode, Rüdiger Rath gives us insights into the world of CANCOM, the challenges and successes of digital transformation and the company's extensive strategy work.
Introduction of the guest: Rüdiger Rath
Rüdiger Rath is an experienced CEO and business administration graduate. He began his career as CFO of various well-known companies and has been with CANCOM since 2021. He initially joined as COO and took over the role of CEO in November 2022. With his extensive experience and strategic vision, he is successfully leading CANCOM through the challenges of transformation.
What does CANCOM actually do?
CANCOM supplies over 40,000 customers, mainly in the SME sector, with end-to-end IT solutions. These range from equipping workstations to comprehensive digitalization projects and IT operations. CANCOM also acts as an integration and service provider and cooperates with various well-known manufacturers to offer customized digital solutions. The focus is always on the solution that meets the customer's needs.
From the start-up beginnings to strategic milestones
Rüdiger Rath talks about CANCOM's humble beginnings as a start-up in the early 90s. Over the years, the company has continuously developed and achieved important strategic milestones. One outstanding example is the acquisition of the Austrian market leader last year, which has further strengthened CANCOM's position in the market.
The strategy process at CANCOM
A central aspect of the episode is the comprehensive strategy process at CANCOM. Rüdiger explains why this process was necessary in order to develop a common understanding of the initial situation, a clear vision and the specific fields of action. He emphasizes the importance of cooperation with the core management team in order to develop the strategy in a structured manner and jointly determine the direction of the company.
Stakeholder management in a listed company
Rath also addresses the challenge of stakeholder management in a listed company. He explains how the strategy is communicated to the entire workforce and which methods are used. A central element is the StrategyActivation Tool, which ensures that every employee understands and can implement the strategy.
How tech pioneers are shaping the SME sector
CANCOM sees itself as a tech pioneer that plays a key role in shaping the SME sector. Rath explains what makes CANCOM better than its competitors: a deep understanding of technology, regionality, a feel for the customer's business and the ability to offer real practical solutions. Examples of this include the use of AI in industry and automated workplace equipment.
Definition of focus topics in the CANCOM strategy process
Another important point is the art of defining what is not done. This is a challenge, but essential for success. CANCOM concentrates on five focus topics that reflect the performance of the organization.
Success factor digital end-to-end strategy process
Rüdiger emphasizes that transparency and centrality are key success factors. Away from thousands of files and presentations on drives and desktops towards a transparent and central working tool, the StrategyFrame, which also serves as a target tracking tool.
Recommendations for strategy makers
In conclusion, Rath gives recommendations for all strategy makers: 1. ask the expectations of all stakeholders, 2. develop a common understanding of the core challenges and really invest the necessary time in this. This effort is worthwhile and leads to sustainable success.
SHOWNOTES
StrategyFrame® ACADEMY
RüdigerRath
CANCOM
Christian Underwood
Prof. Jürgen Weigand
StrategyFrame
Podcast "Hope is not a strategy"
Book "Hope is not a strategy"