41. Jakob Schöffel

Shownotes

41. Jakob Schöffel, CEO of Schöffel Group – Leadership Edition

Generational Change: Family Businesses Balancing Tradition, Values, and Transformation

Taking over the management of an eighth-generation family business at the age of 26 – not out of obligation, but out of conviction: This is what Jakob Schöffel, CEO of Schöffel Group, discusses with podcast hosts Joy Edwin Thanarajah and Harald R. Fortmann.

But what does a generational change look like that works both strategically and personally? In this episode, Jakob Schöffel explains how he masters the balancing act between respect for corporate tradition and the courage to innovate. He explains why self-reflection does not stand in opposition to strong leadership – and why the question 'Am I the right person for this role?' must be asked regularly, not just before starting, but also afterwards.

Furthermore, he sheds light on Schöffel's strategic positioning in the premium outdoor segment amidst growing price pressure, the importance of a healthy debate culture in family businesses, and what curiosity, adaptability, and confidence mean as leadership competencies for the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Overview of this episode's content:

• Succession Requires Courage for Self-Reflection and a Clear Leadership Structure
• Previous Decision-Making as a Blueprint for Succession
• Leading Through Questions Instead of Instructions – Not Just in Early Years
• Premium Positioning as a Strategic Imperative in the Outdoor Market
• Fast Fashion and Price Pressure as Key Industry Challenges
• Sustainability as an Integral Part of the Business Model Across Generations
• Bundeswehr Equipment as a Socio-Political Statement
• E-commerce and Specialized Retail as Complementary Sales Channels
• Healthy Debate Culture as a Foundation for Succession in Family Businesses
• Curiosity, Adaptability, and Confidence as Killer Competencies

Related Links:

• Jakob Schöffel on LinkedIn
• Schöffel Website
• Joy Edwin Thanarajah on LinkedIn
• Harald R. Fortmann on LinkedIn
• Harald R. Fortmann on Instagram
• Deininger Website
• Five14 Website
• Suits & Sneakers on LinkedIn
• Suits & Sneakers on Instagram

About Suits & Sneakers

Suits & Sneakers is a podcast for decision-makers. In the Leadership Edition, Deininger Group CEO Joy Edwin Thanarajah and Harald R. Fortmann, managing partner of the HR consultancy Five14, speak with leaders about new work environments, the evolution of leadership, and their extensive experience in building and managing companies.

About Deininger

Deininger, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, is one of Germany's leading executive search consultancies, operating with a global network of partners. Since its founding in 1981, Deininger has specialized in identifying and recruiting top executives for companies across various industries. With economic and industry expertise, Deininger supports clients in filling key positions within a dynamic market environment and an evolving world of work. Through many years of experience and a focus on quality and sustainable collaboration, Deininger has established itself as a trusted partner for national and international companies, from startups to larger medium-sized enterprises and corporations. Deininger – Frankfurt, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, China, Dubai, Great Britain, India, Poland, and USA.

About Five14

Five14 is an executive search boutique that connects companies with individuals who drive change. From digital transformation to the age of AI, we identify leaders who combine technological expertise, strategic vision, and cultural leadership.

Classic "post and pray" recruiting is no longer effective. Five14 represents a new approach to executive search: targeted, discreet, networked, and always on an equal footing. Our team – multi-award-winning consultants with decades of experience in marketing, sales, and corporate management in the digital industry – helps startups, SMEs, and corporations actively shape the world of work tomorrow.

We recruit for impact, not just positions. As our clients' partners, we act openly, transparently, and in accordance with the principles of proper HR consulting (BDU). Sustainability and social commitment are firmly embedded in our DNA: Since our founding, we have operated carbon-neutral and invest 14% of our profits in social projects.

Five14 – Executive Search for leaders who drive the future.

About this Podcast Production

• The podcast intro voice-over was recorded by Chérine De Bruin.
• The podcast "Suits & Sneakers" is a TON.EINS production.