Speaker Bio
Phil is a technology and business leader with a deep passion for turning ideas into real-world solutions. As Head of Digital Transformation and Innovation EMEA at Verizon, he drives growth and innovation. With over 30 years of experience in storage, networking, and security, Phil has a strong background in both technical and strategic leadership.
Before joining Verizon in 2012, he co-founded multiple startups, including Smapper - a Hasso Plattner-funded venture developing enterprise data management solutions - where he led product and business development. He also co-founded Gerlach Security Management, guiding the company as Managing Director.
Phil’s journey started in a leading computer research center, where he designed Germany’s first web farm for the European Computer Industry Research Center. He studied chemistry and computer science at the Technical University of Munich and remains committed to leveraging new technologies to solve real-world challenges. His expertise lies not just in creating innovative products but also in fostering collaboration to unlock the full potential of people and technology.
As a mentor for startups and charity programs he also gives back what he learned of the past 30 years to help new companies to find their way.