Episode 13: Building a Global SAP Consulting Powerhouse: The story of cbs corporate business solutions

Guests:
• Harald Sulovsky - Founder and former CEO - cbs corporate business solutions
• Rainer Wittwen - CEO - cbs corporate business solutions
Host:
• Alexander Greb - Consulting Director - cbs corporate business solutions
Entrepreneurship isn’t just about startups — it’s also about building lasting companies that transform industries. In this special episode of Transformation Every Day, we sit down with Harald Sulovsky, founder and former CEO of CBS Corporate Business Solutions, and his successor Rainer Wittwen, CEO of CBS. Together, they share the fascinating journey of growing CBS from a small SAP consultancy into a global powerhouse with 1,600 employees and over 300 million euros in annual revenue.
Hear firsthand how Harald’s passion for business process consulting and technology sparked the creation of CBS back in 1993, how the company navigated market shifts and technological revolutions, and how a strong culture and visionary leadership have fueled its sustainable growth. Rainer reflects on stepping into the leadership role and driving CBS forward through today’s digital transformation landscape.
This episode also celebrates CBS’s 30th anniversary and upcoming event featuring SAP CEO Christian Klein as a special guest, marking three decades of innovation and excellence in SAP consulting.
Whether you’re a founder, consultant, or business leader, this conversation offers valuable lessons on scaling a consulting firm, embracing change, and delivering real transformation at scale.
Tune in for an inspiring look beyond startups — entrepreneurship through the lens of one of the most successful SAP consulting firms in the world.
Follow Harald: linkedin.com/in/harald-sulovsky-971b6216
Follow Rainer: linkedin.com/in/rainer-wittwen-64a45475

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
01:54 Economic Forecasts and Business Strategies
02:54 Founding CBS: The Journey Begins
10:02 Challenges in Consulting: Lessons from the Past
16:41 Building a Team: The Importance of Culture
23:41 Navigating Change: Adapting to New Technologies
29:16 The Role of Consultants in Business Transformation
36:17 Education and Training: Investing in Future Talent
44:08 Growth Strategies: Organic vs. Acquisitions
52:04 Conclusion: Reflections on CBS's Journey
54:55 Navigating Partnerships and Strategic Decisions
01:00:10 Global Expansion and Strategic Growth
01:06:22 Innovations in Data Management and Migration
01:13:04 The Transformation Philosophy of CBS
01:18:21 Leadership Transition and Succession Planning
01:27:19 Reflections on Leadership and Future Vision
01:33:11 The Impact of AI on Consulting
01:38:02 The Simplicity of Transformation

Follow Alexander: linkedin.com/in/alexandergreb
Follow Johannes: linkedin.com/in/johanneslangguth

Thanks to Steven Spears for lending his voice for our podcast intro.
Theme music by Luis Álvarez a.k.a. Fourth Dogma