With Thomas Bernard, Herrmann Ultraschall has gained an experienced chief digital officer, who will be responsible for driving the digitalization of internal processes forward, as well as the products. The new CDO sees the focus for all changes to result in the benefit of the customer.

Since the first visualization of an ultrasonic welding process, digitalization has been one of Herrmann’s key factors for success. The further development of this digital added value for the customer will be the responsibility of Bernard, who joined the management team of CEO Thomas Herrmann and COO Carsten O’Beirne as new CDO on December 1, 2022.

The first step toward achieving that goal is to continue the digitalization of the Herrmann group. Across all levels, business processes are to be digitally enhanced and integrated to simplify communication with customers and optimize working speed and transparency. This is also important for continuing the globalization of the world market leader for ultrasonic welding systems: uniform processes and systems can prevent information breaks between the national companies and guarantee a uniform customer experience worldwide.

“Digitalization is not a separate discipline. It is more appropriate to speak of digital transformation in this context. It will have a massive impact in all divisions – and thus, of course, also on partners and customers,” states Bernard. “This direct impact on customers and working on their needs is what particularly excites me about the role of CDO.”

For his new tasks, Bernard can draw on more than 25 years of experience in the field of software and IT. After studying applied computer sciences in Dortmund, he initially worked as a software developer and product manager. Later, he focused increasingly on the digital transformation of companies in various positions. Most recently, he was chief information officer for the Austrian machine manufacturer Engel.