Executive & Transitional Coach: Düsseldorf, online & on-site.
Thomas Janknecht
Find your authentic path and lead with clarity and confidence
With over 30 years of experience in leadership and coaching, I guide leaders in unlocking their strengths and navigating change with clarity.
My mission is to strengthen you as a leader – with resilience, self-confidence, and a clear focus on your potential. I have already helped over 200 leaders shape their role consciously and successfully, always keeping the person and their development in focus.
Warum ich der richtige Coach an deiner Seite bin
My calling: "To strengthen leaders in their development and accompany them through change."
This conviction has guided me for many years and shapes my work as an Executive Coach and leader.
I grew up in an entrepreneurial family and learned early on to take responsibility, make clear decisions, and think long-term – values that continue to guide me today. With over 30 years of leadership experience, including 27 years in a global consulting firm, I bring strategic foresight, operational excellence, and the ability to master complex challenges with confidence.
In my professional career, I have led global IT programs and projects, successfully implemented reorganizations, and built international leadership teams.
But what has always fulfilled me the most is working with people: fostering them, strengthening them in their role, and accompanying them on their personal and professional journey.
As a coach, I have had the privilege of accompanying over 200 leaders on their journey – from senior leadership positions to C-level. My passion is to support you in shaping your leadership role with clarity, self-confidence, and success.
My goal: To strengthen you in your development as a leader and a person – with clarity, experience, and genuine connection to your potential.
My Coaching Services
Individual Coaching
Find clarity, navigate through change, and discover your true purpose. Together, we will shape your path to a fulfilling and self-determined life.
- Begin your transformative journey and unlock your true potential
- Navigate your life transition
- Discover your life’s purpose
Leadership Coaching
Develop your authentic leadership style, enhance your leadership effectiveness, and leverage the "Six Essential Leadership Traits" to thrive as a leader in an uncertain and rapidly changing world.
- Find the most powerful expression of your leadership style
- Accelerate your leadership effectiveness
- Executive Coaching
Team Coaching
Build a high-performing team, gain insights into the strengths, behaviors, and communication styles of your team members. Enhance your team's collective leadership performance.
- The eight characteristics of a high-performing team
- Increase team collaboration and performance
- Enhance your team's collective leadership performance
Thomas Janknecht
Achieve your success with authenticity and empathy
As a certified Executive Coach with over 30 years of international experience I stand by leaders who seek clarity, trust, and targeted development in their transitions. For me, change is not just about adaptation, but an opportunity for growth and the unfolding of new perspectives. With empathy, authenticity, and proven coaching methods, I guide youto recognize your strengths, tackle challenges with courage, and make confident decisions.
Learn more here about how I can support you.
Your partner for clear leadership and sustainable growth
Why Thomas Janknecht?
My decades of leadership experience and coaching expertise empower you to tackle the challenges of the 21st century—authentically, effectively, and future-proof. These values shape my work:
Authentic
I stand for clarity, honesty, and genuine connection. In my coaching, I create a safe space where you can reflect, grow, and develop your authentic leadership strength.
Empathetic
I listen to you and understand your challenges. With empathy, I guide you through complex situations and help you gain new perspectives.
Inspiring
Together, we will uncover your potential and personal vision. My goal is to encourage you to make bold decisions and leverage your strengths effectively.
Strategic
With a clear focus on what matters most and my experience in global leadership roles, we will develop tailored strategies that align with you and your environment.
Results-Oriented
My coaching delivers tangible outcomes: better decisions, greater effectiveness, and sustainable success—for you, your team, and your organization.
Future-Focused
We shift your focus to long-term goals and build leadership skills that future-proof you and your environment. This creates lasting, impactful results.
FAQ
What makes the coaching portfolio special?
My coaching portfolio combines years of leadership experience with certified coaching methods and a deep passion for guiding individuals on their journey. The topics range from self-awareness and life purpose to change management and effectively overcoming challenges. It is tailored to areas such as personal development, leadership, team dynamics, and organizational transformation. Individuals, Leaders and Teams tailored and offers customized solutions for diverse needs.
What distinguishes coaching for individuals and leaders?
My coaching for Individuals is aimed at individuals who want to drive their personal growth and achieve life goals, regardless of their professional position. Coaching for Leaders on the other hand, focuses on enhancing leadership skills, improving decision-making, and navigating complex organizational challenges to inspire and lead teams effectively.
Is there a success guarantee with your coaching?
Coaching does not have a fixed success factor, as success largely depends on the responsibility and commitment of the coachee. As a coach, I guide the process, ask targeted questions, and provide impulses. However, the change and implementation lie in the hands of the coachee. Close collaboration and the willingness to engage in the process are the key to success.
What is the process of coaching?
The coachings starts with a a free initial consultation, where we discuss your goals and challenges. Based on this conversation, I create a tailored coaching package. The subsequent sessions can be held flexibly, either online or in person, depending on what suits you best. We work on specific goals and adjust the process as needed.
In which languages do you offer your coaching?
I offer my coaching in German (native language) and English to support a wide range of clients.
How can I book a coaching session?
You can book a session directly through my website by scheduling a non-binding conversation. Alternatively, you can send me a message to find a suitable time. The booking process is simple and transparent.
What is the cost of coaching?
The cost of coaching varies depending on the package and your specific needs. I offer tailored options that are aligned with your goals. Schedule a no-obligation conversation to discuss the details and receive a suitable offer.
How often do the coaching sessions take place?
Typically, the sessions take place every 1-2 weeks. Depending on your progress and needs, we can also schedule longer breaks of 3-4 weeks to deepen the learning.
Do I receive written materials for the sessions?
Yes, for most coaching packages, I provide written materials. These support your learning process and help you implement what you've learned sustainably. Additionally, I enjoy using digital tools to make our collaboration flexible and interactive.
Are there any book recommendations to deepen the coaching process?
Yes, for each coaching package, I provide selected book recommendations that support your personal development. These recommendations are tailored to your interests and goals.
Testimonials
Courtney
"Thomas' coaching helped to uncover and move me forward in places I was getting stuck for many years. I appreciate how he kept me accountable for the things I wanted to change. Without his support, I would not have been able to progress as far as I did in a short time. Thomas’ coaching has left a lasting impact on me."
Yusuff
"Thomas is an exceptional coach who excels at meeting individuals exactly where they are in their personal and professional journeys. His unique ability to connect and coach both high-achieving leaders and frontline workers alike sets him apart. Thomas has not only been an invaluable coach to me personally but has also played a significant role in our Affinity Black Network coaching program, which pairs less experienced colleagues with senior coaches. The feedback I’ve received from those who have been coached by Thomas, as well as my own experiences, has consistently been overwhelmingly positive. His coaching has provided profound insights and has been instrumental in unlocking the great potential within each individual he works with."
Kiran
“Working with Thomas is always a pleasure. His structured approach and focus on process efficiency have made a significant impact on my personal and professional growth. TJ has an incredible ability to break down complex goals into clear, actionable steps, making it easy to stay on track and see steady progress. His commitment to my growth helped me achieve my goals faster and with less stress. If you’re looking for a coach who brings structure, precision, and a results-oriented mindset, Thomas is the perfect choice.”
Nic
“I had the pleasure of being mentored by Thomas during my early days as a people leader and I must say he is one of the best leaders who helped shaped what I am today. His very hands-on approach in coaching has helped me navigate my leadership journey with ease. He shares real life experience on how to drive the best with people and would always recommend valuable leadership resources (ex: books, articles, authors, etc.). Aside from sharing helpful coaching practices, he never fails to connect on a personal level making the mentorship experience more authentic and real. Thank you, Thomas, for imparting your leadership best practices to me, I would forever be grateful!”
Luisa
"When I embarked on my journey as a new team leader, having Thomas as my coach was transformative. His guidance helped me navigate challenges and build strong relationships with my team members. Thomas taught me the profound importance of truly connecting with people, being intentional in my actions, and leading with care. Through his wisdom, I learned that trust is the cornerstone of any successful team. As I earned my team's trust, I discovered that cooperation flowed naturally, enabling us to achieve our goals together. Thomas's mentorship has been invaluable, and his lessons continue to inspire and shape my leadership approach."
Venugopal
"Thomas has been an exceptional coach and mentor to me. I have learnt how to balance work and life and be able to give 110% for my team without ever compromising on quality, family and relaxation time. We have worked together for several years and his leading from the front and yet never managing is a style that I have tried to imbibe as much as possible. I am grateful that I got a chance to work with him and hope that I get the same in future as well."
Cecylia
"I met Thomas in 2019 during a learning program for young leaders, where he served as my private coach. I thoroughly enjoyed our collaboration. In our one-on-one sessions, he helped me recognize my potential as an aspiring leader and identify key areas for growth. Notably, I learned the importance of seeking support from others, such as my direct manager, to achieve project outcomes. Earlier, I viewed asking for help as a weakness, but through Thomas’s guidance, I came to see it as a sign of maturity in my role."
Rob
"Going into our coaching sessions I did not know what to expect or what preparation I needed for our sessions. Thomas has the ability to ask questions that made me focus on what mattered most in both my professional and personal lives. His ability to share about his own personal experiences gave me a comfort level that became the foundation of our future sessions."
Arun
"I had the opportunity to work closely with Thomas, whose executive and transitional coaching expertise has been transformative for our organization. His unique approach goes beyond traditional coaching; it combines deep empathy, strategic insight, and practical tools that empower leaders to navigate complex transitions confidently. Thomas has an incredible ability to identify core challenges and provide tailored guidance, enabling leaders to unlock their full potential and drive meaningful change. His coaching has been invaluable, not only in guiding individuals but also in fostering a culture of resilience and growth. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a coach who brings wisdom and results to the table."
Jyotsna
"I had the pleasure of working with Thomas as a mentor and a coach, and his impact on my leadership journey has been transformative. Thomas combines a deep understanding of business strategy with an exceptional people-centered approach, making him an invaluable partner for my growth. His insight and ability to ask thought-provoking questions pushed me to uncover and leverage strengths I hadn’t fully recognized, while also addressing the areas I needed to develop. What sets Thomas apart is his authentic empathy, his knack for creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for introspection, and his commitment to real results. He helped me align my goals with actionable strategies and offered guidance that was both challenging and supportive, driving me to evolve in my role. I highly recommend Thomas to any leader looking to advance their executive capabilities or transition seamlessly through new career phases."
Ready when you are
So what are you waiting for? Let’s find out together if I’m the right coach for you. Book a free, no-obligation initial consultation with me now!