Kai Hammerich
About Kai Hammerich
Kai Hammerich is the Managing Partner at Spencer Stuart in Denmark and has held numerous leadership roles in executive search and marketing across various global companies, including Korn Ferry, Russell Reynolds Associates, and Apple.
Current Role at Spencer Stuart
Kai Hammerich serves as the Managing Partner for Spencer Stuart in Denmark, a role he has been in since 2023. He is located in Copenhagen, Capital Region, Denmark, and works on-site. His responsibilities include managing the firm's operations and client engagements within the region.
Previous Roles at Korn Ferry
Kai Hammerich held multiple leadership roles at Korn Ferry from 2014 to 2023. These roles include Chair Nordic and Office Managing Director for both Denmark and Sweden. During his tenure, he focused on leadership succession, development, and advisory services. He was also the Office Managing Director in Copenhagen from 2014 to 2023. He spent a brief period on garden leave before leaving the company in 2023.
Career at Russell Reynolds Associates
Kai Hammerich worked as Managing Director at Russell Reynolds Associates from 1995 to 2014, based in London, United Kingdom. In this role, he was involved in executive search and advisory services, focusing on technology and global practice. His work primarily focused on leadership roles and succession planning.
Educational Background: Northwestern University and Aarhus University
Kai Hammerich earned an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, where he studied marketing and strategy from 1982 to 1984. Additionally, he holds an MSc in Economics from Aarhus University, achieved between 1979 and 1984. This educational background has been foundational in his career in marketing and executive leadership.
Co-authorship of 'Fish Can’t See Water'
Kai Hammerich co-authored the bestselling book 'Fish Can’t See Water,' which explores the impact of national culture on business strategy and execution. The book has been well-regarded for its insights into how cultural factors influence business practices and decision-making.
Accomplishments at Apple
Kai Hammerich played a key role in launching Apple in Denmark, serving as the Marketing Director. He worked at Apple in various capacities from 1987 to 1995, including roles as Marketing Manager for Education EMEA and Marketing Director for the UK.
Industry Recognition
Kai Hammerich has been nominated as one of the world's most influential headhunters by BusinessWeek. This nomination acknowledges his significant contributions to executive search and leadership development over nearly three decades.
Global Career and Client Service
Throughout his career, Kai Hammerich has lived and worked in North America, France, the UK, and Denmark. He has held various pan-regional roles, serving clients globally. His extensive experience includes leadership roles in marketing, executive search, and advisory services.