Friday 4 October 2013

MJ Rabbit meets... Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, CEO, Davidoff Oettinger AG

Being a CEO today is a 24-hour, globe-trotting job. Just ask Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, CEO of Davidoff Oettinger AG, the maker of hand-rolled Dominican cigars.

A quick glance at his Twitter feed and you'll see what I mean. Recently, after a trip to Germany for a trade show to launch the new Davidoff Nicaragua cigar, the dynamic Dane visited Saudi Arabia for the opening of the new Davidoff Store and Lounge in Jeddah, followed by a quick hop back to Europe to Burgundy, France. Then it was back to his desk - briefly - in Basel, Switzerland, followed by a trip to Belgium. Phew!

I've interviewed Hans-Kristian many times, and he is one of the most knowledgeable executives about the ever-changing world of brands. His experience spans sectors such as beauty, jewellery, luxury goods, watches and cigars.

"Time beautifully filled" is Davidoff's tagline. The ad images that accompany this motto are some of the most appealing and evocative I've ever seen in the luxury goods industry.

Hans-Kristian tells me he has many exciting plans in the pipeline for the Davidoff brand. I don't doubt it for a moment, so watch this space.

Hans-Kristian Hoejsgaard, CEO, Davidoff Oettinger AG