Sabine Spittler: Pioneering Digital Innovation at Kearney
Sabine Spittler holds the role of Partner and Managing Director at Kearney, a position she’s grown into since joining the firm in 2014. With a rich background in digital strategy, she has emerged as a key figure driving innovation and transformation across the organization. Academically, Sabine brings a solid foundation, with a Master’s in International Management from WHU—Otto Beisheim School of Management and a Bachelor’s in Business Law from EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht.
Her journey with Kearney began at the associate level and quickly advanced through leadership roles, thanks to her keen insight and deep commitment. Her expertise has since crystallized around digital transformation, where she now serves as the Global Lead of the Customer & Growth segment within Kearney’s Digital & Analytics division. In this role, she champions strategic change—developing forward-thinking business models and operational frameworks that improve client interaction and stimulate sustainable growth.
Operating from Berlin, Sabine has played a critical role in shaping Kearney’s digital future. She helped reimagine the firm’s operational approach, laying the groundwork for a strategy aimed at doubling the practice’s growth in the next few years. Her strategic mindset not only revitalizes existing collaborations but also sparks new partnerships, reinforcing Kearney’s leadership in digital consulting.
A trusted advisor to consumer-facing sectors—ranging from beauty to electronics—Sabine supports companies in becoming more consumer-centric. Her approach merges data-driven insight with sustainable business practices, resulting in impactful transformation journeys for her clients.
Recognized among the “2025 Women Leaders in Consulting,” Sabine exemplifies the modern consultant: visionary, agile, and grounded in ethical digital leadership. Her story offers meaningful insights for professionals eager to carve a path in this dynamic field.
Charting a Career of Impact
From the outset of her consulting career, Sabine has been driven by a desire to address complex business issues across a range of industries. Her early recognition of the strategic value of customer experience became a north star, eventually guiding her to global leadership within Kearney’s Customer & Growth portfolio.
“I’ve had the privilege to lead impactful projects and collaborate with exceptional colleagues,” she shares. Today, her work focuses on transforming customer engagement through technology, with a global perspective and a results-driven mindset.
Navigating the Digital Age
Sabine sees today’s digital landscape as an incredible opportunity to reshape how organizations grow. “We are at a unique point where businesses can deeply connect with customers and evolve sustainably,” she explains. By integrating technology, data, and human insights, she and her team co-develop tailored, meaningful strategies for their clients.
AI and Automation: Foundations for the Future
Sabine emphasizes the transformative nature of AI and automation, underlining the need for strong foundational systems. This includes high-quality data, scalable platforms, and robust governance frameworks. Ethical AI use, compliance, and organizational readiness are critical components in her model. When combined with team empowerment and skill-building, these foundations enable organizations to adopt innovation responsibly.
People-Centered Innovation
At the core of her leadership style is empathy and collaboration. Sabine cultivates inclusive team environments where creativity is fueled by open communication and trust. She extends this philosophy to client engagements, helping companies build cultures that drive innovation through shared ownership and emotional intelligence.
Adapting to Change and Staying Curious
Keeping up with rapid advancements and changing consumer needs requires agility. Sabine stays ahead by continuously learning—from attending industry events to leveraging insights from Kearney’s global network. Her natural curiosity motivates her to challenge assumptions and seek out new approaches, ensuring she makes informed decisions in a fast-moving world.
Leading with Purpose and Balance
Sabine’s leadership is also deeply personal. As a mother of two young children, she’s learned the importance of setting boundaries and embracing flexibility. She’s committed to fostering well-being not only for herself but across her teams, believing that personal fulfillment enhances professional performance.
Advice for the Next Generation
Sabine encourages future leaders to stay curious and committed to lifelong learning. She stresses the importance of empathy and building strong relationships, along with staying connected to personal values and purpose. “Authenticity is what keeps you grounded and impactful,” she says.
Strategic Vision for Growth
Looking ahead, Sabine aims to position Kearney as the go-to advisor for companies pursuing customer-led growth and digital excellence. Her strategy involves expanding talent, enhancing analytical capabilities, and forging stronger client bonds. With a forward-thinking mindset, she is steering Kearney into a new era of value-driven transformation.