— Boutique executive search · DACH

Building legacies.
One leadership
decision at a time.

We place executives who don't just fill positions — they shape organisations. Partner-led, discreet, and built for the Mittelstand.

— Who we are

Kempkens × Kohler at a glance

Independent

We are an independent, partner-led boutique with profound entrepreneurial and managerial experience — creatively and rapidly achieving results.

Pioneering

One of the fastest growing challengers in the German-speaking boutique executive search market. We consistently outperform established players.

Mission & vision

Our mission is to empower scaling companies in crafting enduring legacies, while aiding corporations in preserving their established heritage. We focus on medium to large-sized, mostly family-owned and PE-backed corporations in the DACH market.

Empathetic & hands-on

Finding an exceptional legacy-driven leader is not the result of an algorithm — it is an ongoing process that requires a deep understanding of our partner's situation. It is a craft we have refined through years of experience.

— Our performance

Results that speak
for themselves

7 weeks
Ø time to place

From commencing the search to the signature between our partner and the ideal candidate.

3–5
Profiles per mandate

We continuously refine our assessment process to offer efficient and effective advisory services.

95%
Placement success rate

Of our projects are completed successfully in the best possible manner.

90%
Senior & executive level

Our search primarily centres on C-level professionals and their pertinent roles.

What sets our collaboration apart

★★★★★

"Agile, personal, tailor-made, and impressively fast — exactly the kind of partner a medium-sized company needs. The collaboration was highly professional, transparent, and consistently aligned with our specific requirements. An executive search provider that truly understands what drives the Mittelstand and delivers genuine added value."

Maximilian SahmManaging Shareholder · RASTAL GmbH & Co. KG
★★★★★

"Many thanks to Sebastian Kohler and Oliver Kempkens for their excellent cooperation – professional, reliable, and with a keen understanding of my requirements!"

Kai VogtSVP Innovation, Strategy · Vetter Pharma
★★★★★

"Kempkens × Kohler stands out through excellent service, fast and well-structured process and high-caliber candidates."

Marcus WirthweinChairman of the Supervisory Board · Wirthwein SE
★★★★★

"I have always experienced Oliver and Sebastian as reliable partners. Results so far: 100% accuracy of fit!"

Uwe BoltersdorfCOO · Crop Energies AG

Client References & Projects