Jan Kovar is the Managing Partner at Odgers Berndtson Czech Republic, where he leads the firm’s executive search and leadership advisory services. With a career spanning over 30 years—including a decade of senior operational leadership and nearly 20 years in executive search—Jan is one of the most prominent headhunters in the Central and Eastern European (CEE) market. He specializes in placing C-level executives for global corporations and local market leaders, leveraging a 59-office global network to provide a unique blend of local depth and international reach. Jan’s approach to talent acquisition is informed by his extensive experience "on the client side." Before entering the search industry, he spent over ten years at SCA Hygiene Products, ascending from Sales Director to Managing Director. His tenure in the FMCG and hygiene sectors provided him with a first-hand understanding of commercial strategy, large-scale distribution, and the operational pressures of managing a multinational business unit. This background, combined with early-career experience in Logistics & Distribution at Levi Strauss & Co., allows Jan to evaluate candidates not just on their resumes, but on their ability to navigate complex supply chains and commercial ecosystems. Prior to joining Odgers in 2016, Jan served as the Managing Partner at TRANSEARCH International, where he operated within a global matrix structure covering the Automotive, Energy, and Infrastructure sectors. His ability to understand diverse corporate cultures and business strategies was further refined during his time as a Partner at AMROP HEVER. This cumulative experience makes him a trusted advisor for organizations seeking leaders who can drive digital transformation, industrial innovation, and commercial growth in the Czech and global markets. Jan holds a Dipl. Ing. in Economics from the Prague University of Economics and Business and an MBA from the Czech Technical University in Prague. This dual academic foundation in engineering-adjacent business and pure economics gives him a highly analytical and structured approach to leadership assessment. He is deeply committed to the belief that building the world’s best leadership teams is a privilege that drives the ultimate success of his clients. Key Strategic Pillars CEE Market Authority: Decades of leadership experience in the Czech Republic, providing deep cultural and professional intelligence for the region. Operational Pedigree: Former Managing Director with practical expertise in sales, logistics, and P&L management, enabling high-level peer-to-peer consulting with CEOs. Multi-Sector Expertise: A proven track record in high-complexity industries including Automotive, Telecommunications, and Energy Infrastructure. Global Integration: Expertly connects local Czech talent needs with Odgers Berndtson’s vast international network across six continents. Firm Profile (Odgers Berndtson) Heritage: Founded in 1965, the firm celebrates 60 years of defining the executive search industry. Scale: Operates 59 offices in 33 countries, ensuring that no search is limited by geographic boundaries. Impact-Driven: Focuses on integrated leadership advisory that goes beyond placement to include long-term executive success and organizational health.