Sharks in the Pool

Pascale Hagin

Leadership

  1. #46 | From Rockstar to C-Level – Reinvention, failure, and leading the interim revolution | Robert “Robby” Sadjak

    07/14/2025

    #46 | From Rockstar to C-Level – Reinvention, failure, and leading the interim revolution | Robert “Robby” Sadjak

    What does it take to rise fast, fail hard, and come back stronger than ever? In this episode of Sharks in the Pool, I speak with Robert “Robby” Sadjak, Managing Partner of Dr. Maier & Partner and Valtus Germany, about his extraordinary journey through global brands, personal failure, and professional reinvention. Robby’s career spans both triumph and transformation: ✅ Built powerhouse brands at Henkel and PepsiCo, including turning Germany into the #2 global market for Rockstar Energy ✅ Launched and failed his own startup — and came back with sharper focus and stronger values ✅ Now drives leadership impact through two of Germany’s most respected firms in executive search and interim management 🎧 5 powerful takeaways you’ll get from this episode: 🔑 1. The real reasons his startup failed — and what ex-corporate leaders need to unlearn to succeed Forget the playbook. Robby explains why corporate success can be your biggest blind spot as a founder. 🏁 2. Why interim leadership is booming — and here to stay With over 15,000 interim executives in Germany, Robby explains how C-level leaders are finding freedom, focus, and control in the interim model. 🧠 3. How to build teams that follow you for life Leadership isn’t about charisma — it’s about creating safety, clarity, and momentum. Robby shares the method that made his teams loyal for years. 🌍 4. How parenting and global travel shaped his leadership mindset From Sri Lanka to Japan, Robby reflects on how shared values and cultural curiosity created alignment at home — and in business. 🤖 5. Why AI is already reshaping executive leadership From sourcing talent to strategic decision-making — Robby shares how he’s actively integrating AI to stay ahead of the curve. 💬 Whether you’re a C-level leader, founder, or in a moment of career change — this conversation will move you, challenge you, and sharpen your thinking.

    36 min

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Leadership