In this episode of the SAATKORN podcast, I speak to Nico Peitzmann, Head of CSR & Benefits at the opta data Group – a medium-sized family-run business with around 3,000 employees and over 20 sites, which provides technology and services for the healthcare sector.
Nico and his team have transformed their HR processes from paper-based procedures to fully digital solutions. This achievement even earned them two HR Excellence Awards!
What I find particularly exciting about Nico’s approach is that, for him, technology is far more than just a driver of efficiency. It can improve the employee experience, strengthen staff retention and even foster greater human connection.
One quote that really stuck with me:
“Technology can create an incredible sense of connection, particularly in CSR and employee benefits.”
Among other things, we discussed these three topics:
🚀 1. From internal mail to digital HR – without constantly introducing new tools
How the opta data Group has digitised its HR processes, why existing systems can often do much more than you think, and why a clean database is crucial for the future of AI.
🎯 2. Why good benefits sometimes need to be scrapped
Why Nico consistently puts benefits under the microscope, how ten company runs were consolidated into one – with over 300 participants – and why data and actual benefits are more important than having the widest possible benefits portfolio.
❤️ 3. More technology, more humanity?
How digital processes can strengthen employee retention, and why face-to-face interactions, mental health and genuine community remain indispensable, particularly in an increasingly digital working world.
🔗 Further links
- LinkedIn: Nico Peitzmann
- opta data Group: Official website
🎧 Listen here: