A long time ago (2005) in a place not that far away (Walldorf, Germany) I met Thomas Otter. Funny thing was that it took James Governor of Redmonk fame to introduce me to another SAP employee. Thomas was one of those unselfish people you meet in life that when he offers you praise or criticism you know it comes with no agenda or strings attached. He's a damn decent guy who's really got his head on straight. All he really wants to do is help you succeed - no matter who you are and no matter what you do.

It was during phase 1 of the SAP Global Survey - Shel referenced social media as being a "Cult of Generosity", well for my money Thomas is the embodiment of that spirit. Today is Thomas' last day at SAP and I for one will miss him terribly. I don't think I've told him before how much I really appreciated his tutelage and our discussions about business, social media, communications and all the other topics we've discussed along the way.

Today Thomas begins his new career with Gartner and I want to wish him all of my very best! Thomas, we will miss your presence both physical and virtual at SAP but I am sure that we will be seeing each other soon enough. Perhaps at SAPPHIRE Berlin? Hopefully much sooner.

Your a good man Thomas Otter - a very good man!

BTW, who is the other Thomas Otter anyway?