Unlocking New Business Fields: Interview with Clemens Kerpes on innovaphone Business Apps

Dr. Petra Wanner-Meyer | July 30, 2026 | reading time ≈ 4 min. 

In March 2026, innovaphone established the new role of "Sales Specialist Business Apps" and welcomed back a familiar face to lead this project. We sat down with Clemens to talk about his expectations, strategic goals and his vision for this new venture.

Returning to innovaphone: A Passion for B2B Software Solutions

What brought you back to innovaphone after several years away? Why did this specific role catch your attention?

Clemens: I have been working in complex technical solution sales for over 17 years now. My career actually started right here at innovaphone, where I managed our partner network across Eastern Europe. Over the years, I always stayed in touch with my former colleagues and the company.

When I heard that innovaphone was building a dedicated division for B2B software solutions, I jumped at the opportunity. This initiative allows us to look beyond traditional communication and offer entirely new digital solutions. We are building new channel structures and pioneering new pathways. It brings me right back to where I started.

Navigating Challenges and Trends in the UCC Market

When you worked here years ago, our slogan was "pure IP communications". Today, our focus is "more than communication", and you are back on board as "Sales Specialist Business Apps". What challenges do you see in the business apps sector today? Where is the industry heading, and how does your role fit into the company structure?

Clemens: My role was created to engage end customers directly, provide tailored support, and unlock new business opportunities alongside our channel partners. What we now offer on our myApps platform goes far beyond communication tools. It includes collaborative tools and workforce management solutions, such as our digital time-tracking app.

The position is highly customer-centric and bridges the gap between product management and our sales teams. We are essentially launching a new product line with a fresh go-to-market strategy. It is incredibly exciting because there is so much potential to tap into.

Most importantly, innovaphone remains fully committed to its successful indirect sales model. We continue to rely on our partner system for our business apps. Our goal is not to build a direct sales force. Instead, we want to team up with our partners to initiate that vital first customer contact. We want to answer the questions that matter most: "What does the customer actually need? What specific challenges are they trying to solve?"

A Dynamic Daily Routine Focused on Partner Success

What does a typical workday look like for you?

Clemens: The best part of my job is its sheer variety. I am in constant contact with our internal sales teams, product managers, partners and customers. My daily mission is to support everyone, provide training, and get people excited about our business apps.
A key element of this strategy is our on-site business apps workshops with customers. These sessions provide invaluable real-world feedback. This hands-on input helps us continuously improve and scale our software solutions.

The Demand for a Strong European Alternative

What defines a great business app for you? Which trends and market developments do you find most exciting right now?

Clemens: The way we work and communicate is shifting rapidly. Everything is becoming more digital, flexible and seamlessly integrated. A truly great business app delivers immediate value and simplifies workflows. It should make life easier not just for the employer, but especially for the employee.

Which technology has surprised you the most in recent years?

Clemens: During my career, I also spent some time working in the industrial 3D printing sector. The capabilities available today are deeply impressive and advancing fast. However, that market is heavily dominated by US and Asian corporations, while European manufacturers play a minor role.

I see a clear parallel here to the software market. With our business apps, we want to provide a reliable European alternative to the big American tech conglomerates that currently dominate the landscape.

Looking Ahead: Sales Goals and Work-Life Balance

If you had one wish, what would your ultimate "make-a-wish" app look like?

Clemens: In sales, close collaboration with customers and partners is everything. We constantly coordinate schedules, manage contacts, and align project details. My dream tool would be a high-performance CRM app. Given our internal expertise, building something like that should be well within our reach.

How do you unwind after an intensive day at work? How do you spend your free time?

Clemens: Sports are my favorite way to clear my head after a busy day. I love diving, sailing, and surfing. Unfortunately, those are not activities I can do right on my doorstep. But since I also love to travel, it actually pairs together perfectly.