My name is Lutz Böwe, I’m married, father of a daughter and have been living in my adopted home of Hamburg for more than 10 years now. I’ve been working for KROENERT in sales since 1 January 2017.
What did you do before KROENERT?
I took my first steps in international business during my dual studies for a small trading company in Hamburg. From there I went into international sales for machines in the paper and packaging industry: this allowed me to travel internationally and get to know different markets and cultures.
How did you hear about KROENERT?
KROENERT is an internationally known and highly regarded company in the web processing industry. I kept running into the company at trade fairs and on projects. When I found out about the vacancy in sales, it was the perfect time for a change.
What attracted you to KROENERT?
In addition to the name and reputation, KRONERT was of interest to me as a specialized machine manufacturer. Thanks to this positioning, there are lots different markets and industries to discover. And the company is still family-owned, too. For me, working in family businesses has always had a great appeal. This has been very much borne out by the open and family-like atmosphere.
What goals do you pursue in sales?
In my day-to-day work my aim is to contribute to our customers coming back to KROENERT with their individual products and their production in future, because they feel comfortable here. I also want to help recognise the potential of various innovations and tap into up new markets.
What exactly do you mean by that?
I want to continue to provide the best possible service to existing customers and make new contacts on customer visits, at trade fairs and other events, as well as in the course of day-to-day contact. To do this, I want to find out from these customers what challenges they expect to face in the future and get involved in these issues.
In your opinion, what makes a good sales employee?
A good salesperson is very communicative and always has an open ear for his customers and colleagues. He recognises both opportunities and potential threats from within the market. Most importantly, of course, he must be able to convince customers of the real added value of a product and the existing strengths and values of a company. Anyone can offer the best price.
What keeps you going on a day-to-day basis?
I want to go to bed at night knowing that I’ve contributed positively in some way – whether it’s my colleagues and the company, my customers’ problems, my friends and family, myself or simply global coffee consumption.
What is your motto in life?
When the wind blows change, some people build walls and others windmills.
(Chinese saying)
The buzzwords digitalization and Industry 4.0 are on everyone’s lips, and they’re key issues at KROENERT, too. What was your first encounter with the digital age?
My first digital encounter was Windows 95 and the sound of the modem. Then there were the so-called LAN parties with long lengths of cable. Even back then, I was fascinated by the idea of “working” on something together as part of a network.
Oh no, power failure – what do you do now?
Luckily, my daughter has a room full of building blocks and books – that keeps me busy for long enough.
Favourite gadget?
GPS tracker for running, cycling or racing. The main thing is optimized lap times.
How do you get to work in the morning – bike, car or train/local transport?
Summer: bicycle.
Winter: car ... for the moment.
Just woken up – what happens next?
Coffee, get the little one dressed, breakfast is a must.
Your tip for Hamburg:
Discover the contrasts. The beach is not far from the office, glass can be seen alongside old buildings, business people are among those with alternative lifestyles.
You’re a bottle of Beck’s. Where do you want to be opened?
In the sunset, in the park with a view of the Alster and accompanied by barbecue specialities.
The app that changed my life:
Google Maps – we’re back to beating lap times.
