Pan Katsukis is a Berlin-based serial entrepreneur serving as CEO and co-founder of Remerge, a leading programmatic app marketing platform. Previously, he co-founded madvertise in 2008, the first European mobile ad network.
In your own words, what’s your role in the app business right now?
Creating growth solutions for app marketers in a changing privacy environment. For instance, Remerge is developing and commenting on the Android Privacy Sandbox framework so that effective marketing is doable in the future.
How did you end up working in apps? / get started?
I studied media computer science and did my diploma thesis on location-based advertising on mobile phones in 2008. In the same year, I co-founded madvertise, a European mobile ad network, and started working with app developers to help them monetize and grow. We had a product called “KatAPPult”, which offered a guaranteed spot in the top 10 of the App Store rankings by boosting media spend (for a price of $5,000 back then).
What are you most excited about in apps right now? (tech, trends, people, verticals)
After the pandemic, my mom completely shifted to using her phone and apps to research everyday topics, consume media, communicate with people, and make purchases. I’m seeing more and more of this behavior and am excited to see the opportunities for so many app developers. The shift from offline to online and from online to mobile finally happened and it’s amazing.
What other companies in the app space do you rate/ inspire you and why?
We must be thankful to all mobile measurement partners like Appsflyer, Adjust, Singular, and Kochava, who have paved the way to make the app ecosystem as successful as it is today. Their position as independent judges, who have great tools for app developers, is incredibly valuable for every app marketing participant.
What do you like most about working in apps?
It’s a young, dynamic, scalable, and technically interesting field. And innovation is still constantly happening with new app ideas, features, etc. I also appreciate all the people that are part of this environment. It’s just exciting and a lot of fun.
What one thing would you change about the app industry / market?
The fact that Apple and Google own the app marketing environments is a high-risk situation. They can change policies as and when they like without consulting the industry players who made the app world a successful and valuable place. Similar to how the web works with W3C and its developing standards, significant changes within the app market should involve the public.
Where do you think there’s an opportunity for apps / or unmet needs?
I believe podcasts and audiobooks are still underutilized. Social concepts, participation, discovery, etc., are still missing. Clubhouse tried to tackle this area with a spike of interest and success, but it was unfortunately not sticky enough. But, it shows the potential.
If you weren’t working in apps what would you be doing?
My wife is working in life science and I would have probably founded a company with her in that area.
What app(s) have been most useful to you over the last year?
Stryd (I am a passionate runner), Feedly (I am a passionate reader), Magic the Gathering Arena (I am a passionate gamer)
Any Netflix/ TV show recommendations?
The Office, watched it 5 times, perfect to calm down after a crazy day
Is there anything else we should know about you?
The easiest way to contact me is via LinkedIn.
Do you know someone driving change and growth in the app industry? Nominate an app leader here.
