We’re delighted to welcome Benjamin Ernst to the Vesta Software Group team as our new M&A Business Development Executive. Currently still based in Warsaw, Ben will be supporting growth across the DACH region as Vesta continues to expand its portfolio of vertical market software companies.
To help everyone get to know him a little better, we sat down with Ben for a quick Q&A.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background
I actually come from more of a humanities background than finance – although I did take A-levels in accounting, which I suppose helps bridge the gap a bit! I studied political science and economics before majoring in philosophy for my bachelor’s. I then went on to do a master’s in science and technology studies, which I wrapped up with a thesis in applied ethics.
Maybe because I’m German – and got my driving license there – I knew early on I wasn’t cut out to be a taxi driver! Luckily, during an Erasmus semester in Istanbul, I met my now fiancée, and we later moved to Warsaw, which is now home.
In terms of work, I spent time as an Area Sales Manager in the logistics sector, managing the Western European market with a strong focus on the DACHL region.
What made you choose Vesta as the next step in your career?
After more than eight years in my previous role, I knew I was ready for a new challenge – but I wasn’t looking for just anything. I’d had offers from inside and outside my sector, but none felt quite right. Then Vesta came along.
From the very first conversations with Ken and Patrick, I had a really good feeling. It was clear this was a great opportunity in a thriving, exciting environment. Honestly, the recruitment process felt so natural – I was never stressed, it just clicked.
What are your goals for 2025?
2025 is going to be a transition year for me. So my main goal is “safe passage” – to arrive at Vesta, find my footing, and take those important first steps safely and soundly.
On a personal note, I’ll also be stepping away from amateur football. While it’s always been lower league, it’s still taken up 15–20 hours of my week. So between finishing football and starting this new role, I’m effectively overhauling half my waking hours – which is both exciting and a bit surreal!
What are your top three books / podcasts?
Let’s start with podcasts – here’s what’s currently on my Spotify:
- The Gray Area with Sean Illing (Vox Network)
- The Athletic Football Tactics Podcast
- Discovery Podcast from the BBC
I’d also recommend F1: Beyond the Grid if you’re into Formula 1.
As for books, I’ll stick to fiction. A few favourites off the top of my head:
- Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
- The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen
- The Overstory by Richard Powers
And like with cocktails – something I picked up while bartending during university – I’m always happy to give recommendations when asked!
What do you enjoy doing out of work?
I try to stay active and keep what’s left of my football fitness! I still play regularly, though I’m preparing to move on to tennis – I’ve just been gifted my first racquet. After more than 30 years of team sports, the idea of competing solo is a bit scary but also really appealing.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Anything from the fine arts, really. I never made it past the ‘naive’ or ‘banal’ stage when it comes to painting, drawing, music, or dance. So being able to paint, play an instrument, or dance properly – those are high on my personal wish list.
What is your favourite quote?
I have a few! Steering away from anything too philosophical, my favourites are:
“The world is a fine place and worth fighting for.” – Hemingway
“The whole trick is keeping the truth upfront in daily consciousness.” – David Foster Wallace
“Daring ideas are like chessmen moved forward. They may be beaten, but they may start a winning game.” – Goethe
