In this episode of Now to Next, host Jason Averbook sits down with Dr. Thomas Otter — General Partner at Acadian Ventures, longtime product leader, and one of the most outspoken thinkers in HR technology.
From his career at SAP and Gartner to co-founding a VC fund, Thomas has a unique vantage point on where HR tech has been and where it’s heading. Using golf bags, buffets, and a splash of wine metaphors, he and Jason break down acquisitions, AI, and the realities of building for the future of work.
This isn’t hype — it’s a candid look at what’s really happening inside the industry, who’s likely to thrive, and which players may become roadkill on the way to reinvention.
Guest:
Dr. Thomas Otter is General Partner at Acadian Ventures, a fund investing in early-stage companies shaping the future of work. With decades of experience in HR technology — including leadership roles at SAP SuccessFactors, advisory work at Gartner, and building HR platforms used worldwide — Thomas brings deep expertise in product, strategy, and investment. Known for his candid writing and bold perspectives, he is one of the most respected and outspoken voices in the global HR tech community.
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Dr. Thomas Otter:
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Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:42) Thomas Otter's journey from HR tech to venture capital
(3:33) Recognition by Time Magazine and industry opinions
(6:47) Recent acquisitions and their impact on the HR tech space
(14:29) Scaling challenges and evolution of acquisition strategies
(18:04) The buffet problem in product offerings
(22:59) New product distribution and market leadership strategies
(29:12) Predicting the future of major HR tech players
(31:45) AI's role in reshaping HR tech
(36:33) How evolving work models influence HR tech systems
(40:41) Adaptability of HR tech giants to new work models
(44:05) Prospects of vibe coding in HR software
(47:44) Potential disruptions in the HR software market
(50:28) Rising leadership in the HR tech industry
(55:15) Reflecting on the present and future of HR tech
(56:05) Closing remarks
Now to Next with Jason Averbook