Dr. Philip Wenger

Executive search for leadership roles in DACH | Industrial and mid-sized companies in growth and transformation situations | Direct approach in defined competitive markets | Owner-led and personally accountable

Greater Dusseldorf Area

About

Owner-led executive search boutique focused on leadership roles across the DACH region. Specialized in C-level, Vice President and Director positions in industrial companies, mid-sized organizations as well as growth and transformation situations. Every mandate is personally led. The search process is based on precise role definition, defined target companies, direct approach within the competitive landscape and structured assessment. The result is a clear recommendation based on a small number of carefully selected candidates. For confidential mandates, feel free to reach out directly.

Experience

  • Founder & Managing Partner at Dr. Wenger Executive Search
    Jun 2025 - Present · 1 yr 2 mos

    Owner-led executive search boutique focused on leadership roles across the DACH region. Placement of C-level, Vice President and Director positions in industrial companies, mid-sized organizations as well as growth and transformation situations. Every mandate is personally led. Typical project approach: • Precise role definition with clearly defined success criteria • Identification of relevant target companies within the competitive landscape • Systematic direct approach of suitable candidates • Structured assessment and positioning of candidates Typical outcome: Focused shortlist and clear recommendation instead of a broad selection.

  • Member & Former Board Member (Parallel Role) at Penrhyn International
    Apr 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 4 mos

    Member of Penrhyn International, a global alliance of independent executive search firms with a presence in over 25 cities worldwide. Focus on C-level, VP, Director and Senior Management assignments. From April 2023 to May 2025, also served as a Member of the Board of Directors.

  • Managing Partner at expertalis GmbH
    Mar 2012 - May 2025 · 13 yrs 3 mos

    Managing Partner of an executive search firm specializing in C-Level, Vice President and Director appointments within the German Mittelstand and international corporate structures. Responsible for: • Building and developing the Düsseldorf office • Acquiring and personally leading complex retained search mandates • Direct executive candidate approach • Advising founders, CEOs and international headquarters Strong focus on technology-driven and industrial markets requiring high levels of discretion, market insight and cultural precision.

  • Vice President Central/North/East Europe (Parallel Role) at Future Manager
    2013 - Mar 2023 · 10 yrs 3 mos

    International executive search alliance with presence in over 30 countries. German partner responsible for cross-border mandates, particularly international client assignments with search focus in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Close collaboration with international partners on CFO, CEO and board-level searches.

  • Authorized Officer (Prokurist) at Conciliat GmbH
    2002 - 2012 · 10 yrs

    Authorized Officer with responsibility for executive search and interim mandates in Southern Germany. Advised mid-sized companies on leadership appointments, organizational development and compensation structures. Built the foundation for later specialization in executive search and direct approach methodologies.