Rodolphe is a marketing professional with a passion for creating engaging, user-centered experiences, currently leading the marketing team at Tandem, a global language exchange app. Known for blending creativity with strategic vision, he is focused on building meaningful connections between Tandem and its users.
In your own words, what’s your role in the app business right now?
I lead marketing for Tandem, a language exchange app, where my role is to bridge strategy with creativity to grow our user base and deepen engagement. I focus on creating campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences, helping connect users worldwide who share a passion for language learning. My role is about building a brand that feels both approachable and impactful, using insights to drive decisions while keeping our users’ needs and experiences at the heart of everything we do.
How did you end up working in apps? / get started?
It started as a happy accident. I was curious about tech, found myself getting my first Berlin job at Jodel, and suddenly I was hooked. It’s funny looking back, I never planned this path specifically, but each step kept drawing me deeper. Now, I can’t imagine doing anything else. It’s a bit like finding your favorite show by randomly clicking on an episode, sometimes, destiny has its own plans.
What are you most excited about in apps right now?
I’m excited about the shift towards authentic user engagement. It’s great to see the industry moving from just chasing vanity metrics to building meaningful relationships. With the rise of AI and smarter tech, there’s so much potential for apps to personalize experiences in ways we’ve only dreamed of. Plus, I love seeing how apps are bridging gaps, bringing people together, and, hopefully, making the digital world a flawless ecosystem.
Is there anyone you’d like to shout out to who has influenced your journey in the app industry?
Several mentors and industry leaders have influenced my path in app marketing. Early on, colleagues emphasized a user-centric approach, helping me see marketing as a way to add genuine value.
Christian Eckhardt and Raul Truckenbrodt, founders of Customlytics, deepened my understanding of full-stack app marketing, giving me a comprehensive view of how each part of the funnel interacts. And I’ve always appreciated Arnd Aschentrup’s (CEO of Tandem) vision: our strategy sessions helped me ground creative ideas within broader company goals, keeping me inspired and always open to new trends and perspectives.
What’s in your app tech stack?
Our tech stack is designed to be versatile and scalable, built to adapt as our app evolves and user needs grow. We use a range of tools to enhance performance, analytics, and user engagement. We use tools such as Adjust, Iterable, Compass, AppLovin, etc. At its core, our stack supports a seamless user experience while allowing us to make data-driven improvements and respond quickly to new trends.
What do you like most about working in apps?
The fast pace and constant evolution: this industry is like a high-speed roller coaster, with new features, trends, and tools popping up every week. Plus, I get to work with an amazing team and brainstorm creative ideas that (hopefully) make people’s lives a little better.
What one thing would you change about the app industry/market? Where do you think there’s an opportunity for apps / or unmet needs?
I’d love to see the app industry prioritize sustainable user engagement over short-term growth hacks. So many apps chase “quick wins,” but the real opportunity lies in creating tools that people genuinely want to keep using long-term. Apps with a strong focus on meaningful content or community building are rare but sorely needed. Imagine more apps designed to enrich our lives, where the focus is on quality interaction rather than maximizing screen time: it’s a win for both users and developers.
If you weren’t working in apps what would you be doing?
I’d probably be running an event planning business. From birthdays to unique celebrations, I love creating customized events where every detail, from decor to food, matches the theme perfectly. There’s something magical about bringing people together and watching them enjoy an atmosphere made just for them, it’s my favorite way to celebrate!
iOS or Android?
iOS all the way!
What app(s) have been most useful to you over the last year?
Other than Tandem, of course, ChatGPT has been a game-changer too, it’s my go-to for brainstorming, quick research, and even refining marketing ideas. It’s like having a creative assistant on standby, always ready with a fresh perspective.
What’s on your Spotify / Music party playlist?
Beyoncé, Madonna, and Dua Lipa all in one playlist is all you need for an amazing party. One minute it’s “Break My Soul” then we’re getting to “Vogue” and continue with “Don’t Start Now”. Who doesn’t like a good pop party?
Any Netflix/ TV show recommendations?
“Call My Agent” is a gem. It’s set in a Paris talent agency, juggling big personalities, chaotic schedules, and last-minute crises — kind of like marketing, where you’re always balancing a vision with unpredictable twists! Watching agents charm and negotiate.
Is there anything else we should know about you?
I love life, people, interior design and dancing. ❤️️
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