Lars Herrmann — Biography

Lars Herrmann is a seasoned technology executive and advisor recognized for catalyzing growth and transformation in enterprise software and cloud platform businesses. He has repeatedly succeeded in navigating industry shifts by shaping open source strategies, competitive positioning, and go-to-market execution for global technology leaders.

Accomplishments

• Grew enterprise software and cloud platform businesses using optimal open source models, sharp competitive positioning, and effective GTM strategies.
• Delivered growth multiplier effects by activating open source communities and partner ecosystems, boosting market awareness, adoption, and technology innovation through collaboration.
• Modernized open source product, GTM, and partner programs for the cloud-native and AI era—driving predictable growth, improving free-to-fee conversions, and raising customer satisfaction and retention.

How This Was Achieved

• Worked closely with industry leaders and innovators, positioning businesses into growth trends and disruptive innovations.
• Facilitated cross-functional and cross-company collaboration with programs delivering customer value, differentiation, market reach, and revenue, with strong focus on customer needs and their decision making journey.
• Implemented programmatic approaches—delivering transparency, agility, and flexibility in predictable journeys with clear activities, incentives, and outcomes for customers, partners, and developers.
• Developed, coached and mentored leaders to grow their impact and develop strong leader brands.

Where This Made a Difference

• Red Hat: Transformed the Red Hat Enterprise Linux business model and roadmap for virtualization and containers; modernized partner ecosystem programs to accelerate OpenShift and cloud-native application adoption and partner-driven revenue.
• MongoDB: Modernized the global partner program for a cloud-first model, incentivizing investments in skills, solutions, and customer engagement for MongoDB Atlas among Fortune 1000 enterprises and startups; led ecosystem development for Generative AI, delivering advanced solutions for RAG and real-time AI applications through innovative multi-partner programs and solutions.