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Thomas Karolak
Founder & CEO at Parsk
Professional Background
Thomas Karolak is a seasoned expert in digital transformation and product management, with over 20 years of valuable experience in leading high-stakes transformations for major brands in the media and communications sector. As the Founder and CEO of Parsk, Thomas effectively collaborates with a diverse range of organizations, from established enterprises to startups, helping them transition into Product First Companies. His journey began after earning a Master’s degree in Media from EFAP - École des nouveaux métiers de la communication, which equipped him with the skills and knowledge to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of digital media.
In his dynamic role, Thomas emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'Why' behind each client’s specific needs. He leverages this fundamental question as a cornerstone of his consulting methodology, facilitating profound insights that inform strategies emphasizing both employee and customer experiences. Through this lens of inquiry, he cultivates a mindset shift within organizations, preparing them not just for isolated changes, but for a continual evolution that aligns with their historical context and future ambitions.
Career Journey
Throughout his illustrious career, Thomas has held several prestigious positions that highlight his commitment and prowess in the media and technology sectors. Notably, he served as Chief Digital Officer at Les Echos, where he was instrumental in driving digital initiatives that propelled the organization into the modern age of media consumption. His role at RTLnet is also marked by progression; starting as Editorial Director, he ascended to Directeur Général, leading critical strategies aimed at enhancing the company's digital footprint and user engagement.
Earlier in his career, Thomas demonstrated his skills as Head of Mobile & IPTV Department at eTF1, where he played a key role in spearheading innovative technological solutions to maximize content accessibility across platforms. His strategic marketing initiatives as Head of Marketing at Vivendi Mobile Entertainment further solidified his reputation as a forward-thinking leader capable of merging creative vision with market trends. Each position he has held illustrates a trajectory committed to product excellence and innovation—values which underpin his practice at Parsk today.
Education and Achievements
Thomas Karolak's educational background includes completing a Master’s degree in Media at EFAP - École des nouveaux métiers de la communication. This formal education established a foundation upon which he has built an impressive career characterized by transformative projects across various industries. His methodologies bolster operational efficiencies while promoting a culture that values the interconnectivity between strategy and execution.
Thomas’s leadership has not only been recognized by his peers but has also positively impacted numerous organizations. Companies in sectors including the media, retail, e-commerce, and even public services have engaged Parsk’s services, effectively utilizing Thomas’s approach to refine their product strategies and enhance overall customer engagement.
Notable Achievements
Under Thomas’s expert guidance, Parsk supports a wide array of clients, helping them harness the principles of product management to foster business growth and adaptability in the face of ongoing market changes. His client-centric focus and proven track record have positioned him as a go-to figure in the realms of digital transformation and product strategy.
Some of the notable distinctions in Thomas’s career include:
- Leading successful digital transformations for major companies such as TF1, M6, and Vivendi, driving substantial growth in their digital platforms.
- Creating robust frameworks that empower organizations to prioritize product management, thereby enhancing their competitive edge.
- Mentoring future leaders in the media and tech industries, ensuring the propagation of innovative thinking and dynamic problem-solving approaches.
- Facilitating workshops and seminars that provide insights into effective product strategies, client engagement techniques, and transforming business mindsets.
Conclusion
With a rich tapestry of experience and a profound understanding of the media landscape, Thomas Karolak stands out as a transformative leader committed to helping organizations adapt and thrive in a fast-paced digital world. Through his innovative methodologies at Parsk, and a focus on the 'Why', he continues to inspire businesses to rethink their strategies, prioritize their products, and ultimately enhance their customer experiences. His work is not merely about adjustment but about reimagining what is possible in today’s ever-changing business environment.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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Yes. Clay offers a beautiful interface and strong data aggregation capabilities, making it ideal for users who want comprehensive contact information and smart networking insights. Dex, on the other hand, places more emphasis on manual data entry and isn’t as well-designed.
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