David Fabis, Business Developer DACH
David Fabis joins Volupe FS Group as Business Developer for Germany and the DACH region. With a background in mechanical engineering and years of experience in industrial software sales – most recently at TRUMPF – David brings both technical depth and commercial sharpness to the team. We caught up with him to talk about his new role, the German market, and what he's looking forward to.
"The German market does not buy promises – it wants solutions that work and are proven in real use."
You have a Master's in Mechanical Engineering and a career in software sales. How did that combination come about?
I studied mechanical engineering in a very classical way and really enjoyed working on technical problems and developing solutions. Over time, however, I realized that even the best technical idea has little value if it never reaches the people who actually use it or decide on it.
This realization didn't come overnight, but gradually through practical experience. Early in my career, I believed that the best technical solution would automatically convince customers. Over time, I learned that this is rarely the case. What really matters is understanding the customer's situation, their constraints and their risks – and then translating technology into something that truly helps them succeed.
After my time at university, including working as a research assistant, I deliberately moved into sales. Since then, my motivation has been to explain industrial software solutions not only from a technical perspective, but to clearly communicate their real value – and in doing so, help customers become more successful.
You've worked with industrial software at TRUMPF, DPS Software, and others. What made you want to join Volupe?
Volupe convinced me from the very beginning with a very clear vision. You can immediately sense the competence, the drive and the ambition of the team, as well as a clear plan for where the company wants to go in the coming years.
Simulation is an extremely relevant topic for the German market. Complex products, long development cycles and a high degree of variant diversity mean that well-founded decisions are becoming increasingly important. Volupe addresses exactly this challenge – and not only from a technical point of view, but also from a clear business perspective.
"Early in my career, I believed the best technical solution would automatically convince customers. Today, I know that understanding context and risk is what really creates value."
Germany is known for its strong engineering culture. What does it take to succeed with simulation software in this market?
To succeed with simulation software in Germany, you need credibility, depth and a genuine respect for engineering. The German market does not buy promises – it wants solutions that work and are proven in real use.
Success comes from speaking the language of engineers, understanding their processes, and at the same time clearly demonstrating value for decision-makers. Trust and long-term relationships are key factors.
Your role bridges both Volupe and FS Dynamics. How do you see the combined offering resonating with German customers?
I see the combination of Volupe and FS Dynamics as very strong, especially for the German market. Many companies are under significant time pressure and often lack the capacity in their day-to-day operations to deeply engage with new topics.
This is where sound consulting becomes essential. The combination of deep CAE expertise, consulting competence and a modern, value-oriented simulation approach creates real added value for customers and significantly lowers the barrier to entry.
You've built onboarding programs and sales processes at previous companies. What's your recipe for a successful sales approach?
Especially with complex and explanatory products like simulation, everything starts with understanding the customer. It is crucial to understand how the customer works, what their processes look like and where their real challenges lie.
The key step is then to jointly demonstrate the impact that improved processes can have on time, cost and risk. When customers clearly see this connection, software is no longer perceived as just a tool, but as a strategic lever.
"Simulation only becomes truly valuable when it supports better and faster decisions."
You published a paper on joining processes in car body design during your studies. Does that academic side still influence how you work?
Absolutely. I strongly believe that you should truly understand the topics you are talking about. Only then can you communicate on an equal basis, especially in a technical environment.
Learning how to approach complex problems in a structured way and develop solutions was a key part of my academic background. This way of thinking still shapes how I work today.
What excites you most about the CAE and simulation industry right now?
What excites me most is the ability to predict outcomes. Simulation is, in a way, like a crystal ball. It shows what could happen and enables you to react early.
This can help companies avoid costly wrong decisions, shorten development cycles and save resources – for example by reducing the need for physical prototypes. This combination makes simulation incredibly valuable today.
When you're not working – how do you spend your time?
I really enjoy sports and spending time outdoors. It's the perfect balance for me, especially during intense phases. You'll find me playing squash, surfing or windsurfing, running, or – especially in autumn – mushroom foraging in the forest. I particularly enjoy being outdoors together with my wife and our dog.
Finally – what are your goals for your first year at Volupe?
My first goal is to integrate well into the team and get to know the people, processes and the market in depth. Building on that, I want to create tangible value together with Volupe, FS Dynamics and our customers.
If we manage to make customers measurably more successful while laying a solid foundation for future growth, the first year will be a success.
Connect with David on LinkedIn.
