Michael Eckert, Managing Partner of executive search firm Höchsmann & Company, is a man used to asking the questions. However, when I met him during a visit in Warsaw in October 2016, I was determined to learn more about him, to turn the tables so to speak. I was curious about his perspective on the craft of search, about the foundations of his accomplishments. And what factors have led to his being held in such high esteem by both clients and candidates.

His charisma and natural authority are undeniable. As are his professional achievements. After earning his medical degree, Michael became a sales representative in the pharmaceutical industry. He quickly advanced his career, expanding his expertise to marketing and sales within the international arena. His unconventional and authentic approach led to his appointment with Lufthansa, where he transformed the long-established, traditionalist mindset. A future-forward game-changer, Michael brought a fresh perspective to the table.

“I firmly believe in cross-fertilization. The strengths and practices of a particular field can be invaluable to furthering the interests of another, seemingly unrelated, industry. For instance, the marketing and sales approach of pharma proved extremely beneficial to a – then – state-owned company such as Lufthansa in moving toward a more market-oriented, commercial way of working. It is a concept that I believe is essential to executive search.”

Michael’s successful business background also means he is considered a peer by candidates and clients alike. His knowledge is not limited to theory. He has a genuine understanding of the challenges businesses face, based on his own professional experience. “They see me as their equal, know that I can relate to the issues they deal with.”

Board member placement is a very specific field. It requires the executive search firm to gain in-depth understanding of the client’s circumstances, market and goals. And on the other hand, they also have to find candidates to fill the positions.

“These are generally not people actively looking for a new job. It’s up to us to find them, to discuss the career perspectives and show them the value of the proposition.”

“But so is the human element. You have to be able to recognize whether someone is a match. Of course they have to meet specific ‘hard’ criteria. But a personal fit, the candidate’s individual character is equally important.”

Michael seeks out tailor-made solutions. It’s not a matter of picking some candidates up off the shelf, it’s a much more holistic and active approach. The lessons he has learned working in different sectors and organizational structures, different countries and cultures are key in this regard. “But so is the human element. You have to be able to recognize whether someone is a match. Of course they have to meet specific ‘hard’ criteria. But a personal fit, the candidate’s individual character is equally important.”

Tags: Michael Eckert, Gerhard Michael Eckert, Gerhard Eckert, Meeting Michael Eckert, Höchsmann & Company KG, HR consultancy, executive search, crafter of candidates, educator of clients

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