"Change is the only constant in life, and in the world of tech and finance, it's more like a high-speed train."
In an ever-evolving landscape where technology and finance intersect, staying ahead of the curve isn't just a goal; it's a necessity. Enter Dr. Veronika von Heise-Rotenburg, CFO and Managing Director at Everphone, whose insights from a recent podcast shed light on navigating this dynamic terrain.
Dr. Veronika's journey, marked by innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, isn't just a story. It's a roadmap for those at the helm of investor relations, guiding them through the complexities of modern finance and tech integration.
Let's dive into the valuable takeaways from our conversation and see how they can revolutionize your approach.
Embracing the Service ModelRevolution
"At Everphone we make mobile devices as a service."
Dr. Veronika's words are more than just a company slogan; they represent a fundamental shift in how businesses approach technology and customer engagement. Everphone's model diverges from the traditional path of simply selling products.
Instead, they offer a comprehensive service package that includes smartphones, tablets, and laptops, coupled with essential services like configuration, customer device management, and cyber security. This holistic approach is not just about providing gadgets; it's about delivering a complete tech solution tailored to each client's needs.
Customer-Centricity
In the world of Everphone, the customer is king. Their service model is designed to put the customer's requirements at the center of their operations. This approach allows for a high degree of customization and flexibility, catering to the diverse needs of large commercial clients.
By handling tasks such as device configuration and cybersecurity, Everphone relieves the internal IT burden of their clients. This focus on customer-centric solutions not only enhances client satisfaction but also fosters strong, long-lasting client relationships.
Continuous Revenue Streams
For investor relations professionals and financial managers, Everphone's service model is a beacon of stability in the often turbulent tech industry. By providing ongoing services rather than one-off sales, Everphone establishes consistent, recurring revenue streams.
This approach ensures financial stability andpredictability, which are key factors in attracting and retaining investors. Ina market where customer loyalty and sustained revenue are paramount,Everphone's service model stands out as a forward-thinking strategy thatpromises long-term growth and financial health.
Circular Economy: A SustainableFuture
Everphone is doing something really cool forour planet, and it's also great for their business.
Dr. Veronika said, "We are a company that have circular economy EcoVadis silver medal."
This means they're super serious about being eco-friendly. They don't just throw away old phones and tablets. Instead, they fix them up or recycle them. This is a big deal because it shows they care about the environment.
This green way of doing things makes people trust Everphone more. Investors and customers who want to help the planet like companies that think this way. It's not just about making money; it's about making a difference.
And guess what? By fixing and recycling devices, Everphone saves money too. They don't have to buy new stuff all the time. This means they can use their money for other important things in the business. It's a win-win for everyone – the company, the customers, and the Earth!
Navigating the Complexities of Startup Finance
In the startup world, managing money is really tricky.
"Equity fundraising has become significantly more difficult," according to Dr. Veronika. This means getting money from investors in exchange for a share of the company isn't easy anymore. Startups have to be smart about how they get their funds.
Strategic Financing
First, you've got to know what's happening in the market and what investors are thinking. If you understand this, you can make better plans for getting funds. It's like knowing the weather before you go sailing.
Dr. Veronika talks about how this understanding helped Everphone, especially when the market got tough.
BalancingEquity and Debt
Then, there's this balance between equity anddebt. Think of it like a seesaw. On one side, you have equity – money frominvestors for a piece of your company. On the other side, there's debt – moneyyou borrow and have to pay back. You can't let either side get too heavy.
If you take on too much debt, it's likecarrying a heavy backpack. It makes moving forward hard. But if you give awaytoo much of your company, you might lose control. So, you have to keep thingsbalanced to grow your startup without trouble.
Digital Transformation in Finance
Let's face it. Finance is changing, and it'schanging fast. Dr. Veronika from Everphone knows this all too well. She's notjust following the digital trend; she's leading it.
At Everphone, they've moved from old-schoolways to new, digital methods. Why? Because it's super important to keep up andstay smart in today's world.
Consider efficiency and accuracy. Digitaltools make things faster and less prone to
mistakes. Dr. Veronika mentioned they switchedfrom DATEV to a new finance ERP system on January 1st. This big move means theycan do their finance work quicker and with fewer errors.
This is super important because it helps thecompany save money and time. And in business, time is money, right?
Also, your decision-making can be enhancedbased on data. In today's world, having the right information is like having asuperpower. Dr. Veronika and her team use data to make smart choices.
This is really important for people who work with investors. Why?
Because when you have good data, you can explain your decisions better and plan for the future in a way that makes sense. This helps keep investors happy and confident in where the company is heading.
Women Leading the Financial Sector
As a CFO, Dr. Veronika is a trailblazer for women in finance. She proves that women can lead and excel in this field. Her success is a big deal. It shows everyone that the old idea of finance being just a man's world is outdated. Women like her are changing the game.
She talks about how finance can actually be a good fit for many women. It's not just about numbers; it's about planning, understanding different parts of a business, and making smart choices. Women can do this really well. Plus, finance jobs can be flexible, which is great for women balancing work and personal life.
Dr. Veronika also points out a tough part of being a CFO: sometimes you have to say 'no' for the company's good. This can be hard, especially if you want people to like you. But it's possible to do this well and still be respected. Her story tells us that having women in finance isn't just good for equality; it's good for business too. They bring new ideas and ways of thinking that can really help a company.
Conclusion
Here at Junicorn, we love championing women in finance. Dr. Veronika von Heise-Rotenburg isn't just talking theory. She's a living embodiment of it.
Her journey at Everphone shows us that being smart with tech and money isn't just about following trends. It's about making bold moves, like turning phones and laptops into a service, not just products you sell once. It's about thinking of our planet, reusing and recycling tech to cut waste and costs.
Taking from Dr. Veronika's playbook, you must be ready to adapt, innovate, and keep things simple. Whether it's finding new ways to make money, going green, or balancing your books, her approach is a roadmap for success in a world that never stops changing.
So, grab these ideas, make them your own, and see how they can take your business to new heights.
