— Boutique Executive Search
The new generation of executive search for mid-sized companies
Find leaders who don’t just perform—they leave a lasting impact on your company.
Senior management through to executive management, advisory boards, and investors.
Measurable results
— The challenge
Why traditional headhunters often fail when recruiting top executives.
Key positions cannot be filled using standard processes. Executive search is not a matching tool—it is a precise, discreet craft.
Top candidates are not visible
The best executives are usually not actively on the job market. They need to be approached actively and discreetly.
Traditional headhunters search the same databases. The result: interchangeable profiles and missed talent.
Algorithms don't recognise entrepreneurial impact
AI-powered matching tools optimise for keywords and CVs. What they cannot measure: strategic impact, cultural fit and entrepreneurial mindset.
Misplacements have strategic consequences
A misplacement at executive level costs 12–18 times the annual salary according to studies – plus reputational damage and lost market time.
— Who we are
Partner-led boutique
specializing in executive search in the DACH region
We are neither a recruitment platform nor a corporate conglomerate. Kempkens × Kohler is a partner-led boutique firm with a deep understanding of the craft—we fill your leadership vacancies with a personalized, collaborative approach tailored to your needs.
You always speak directly with us—the decision-makers.
No anonymous research process. No delegation.
— Our Mission
Don’t just fill positions.
Build legacies.
“Building Legacies” is more than just a slogan. It is the standard by which we measure every assignment: We seek leaders who will leave a lasting impact on your company.
— Initial consultation
Confidential initial consultation regarding your key hiring needs
Let’s discuss your challenge during an initial consultation. Confidential, direct, and to the point. We’ll get back to you personally within 24 hours.
— Our Approach
A structured process.
Tailored specifically to your needs.
Our commitment isn’t reflected in grand statements, but in results and the quality of the candidates we present. Click through our 5-step process.
Briefing & Project Kick-Off
Market Analysis & Candidate Mapping
Calibration
Deep Assessment & Shortlist
Closing & Onboarding Support
Executive search, reimagined — where the right hire makes all the difference.
KxK vs. Traditional Headhunter
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."
"Many thanks to Sebastian Kohler and Oliver Kempkens for their excellent cooperation – professional, reliable, and with a keen understanding of my requirements!"
"Kempkens × Kohler stands out through excellent service, fast and well-structured process and high-caliber candidates."
"I have always experienced Oliver and Sebastian as reliable partners. Results so far: 100% accuracy of fit!"
Client References & Projects
Why our approach works differently
Entrepreneurial thinking
We understand roles in the context of growth, responsibility and strategic impact.
Partner-Led, not delegated
You speak directly with decision makers, not an anonymous research process.
Access to the hidden market
We identify candidates where traditional search processes don't reach.
Precision over volume
A clearly calibrated shortlist instead of long candidate lists.