Podcast

42. Peter Kabel

CEO Cogniwerk AI and Professor at HAW Hamburg
12.6.2026
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Shownotes

42. Prof. Peter Kabel, Digital Pioneer, CEO Cogniwerk AI and Professor at HAW Hamburg – Digital Edition

Creativity, AI, and the Next Evolutionary Stage of Value Creation

Data alone doesn't create relevance. And technology alone doesn't create impact. The crucial question is: What happens when Artificial Intelligence meets creativity? When apart from processes ideas, content, and products themselves become more efficient?

Prof. Peter Kabel, a pioneer of the German digital economy, and founder and CEO of Cogniwerk AI, speaks with podcast host Harald R. Fortmann in the current Digital Edition of the Suits & Sneakers Podcast. The discussion focuses on the impact of AI on creative work, agency models, leadership, and career entry for young talents.

Peter Kabel, Professor at the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW), makes it clear: AI doesn't replace creativity; it accelerates it. Crucial elements remain contextual understanding, judgment, quality awareness, and curiosity. For companies, agencies, and leaders, this means that those who adapt quickly, clearly define quality, and understand new roles can actively leverage the current period of transformation.

Episode Contents at a Glance:

  • AI as a Logical Evolution of Digitalization
  • AI Not Only Changes Distribution, But Also Content Production
  • Experience, Contextual Knowledge, and Judgment Gain Importance
  • New Opportunities for Young Talents Despite Evolving Entry Conditions
  • The Classic Career and Seniority Pyramid Is Coming Under Pressure
  • AI Doesn't Replace Creativity, But Scales Output
  • Quality and Assessment Skills Are More Important Than Mere Efficiency Gains
  • Agency Models, Roles, and Business Models Are Fundamentally Changing
  • Data Literacy and Creative Work Are Converging
  • Curiosity Remains the Key Ability for Success

Further Links:

About Suits & Sneakers

Suits & Sneakers is a podcast for decision-makers. In the Digital Edition, Harald R. Fortmann, Managing Director of the executive search consultancy Five14 and Vice President of the BDU, speaks with prominent figures about topics such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, new technologies and trends, and leadership in the digital age.

About five14

Five14 is an executive search boutique that connects companies with individuals who drive change. From digital transformation to the AI era, we identify leaders who combine technological expertise, strategic vision, and cultural leadership.

Traditional "post and pray" recruiting is no longer effective here. Five14 represents a new approach to executive search: targeted, discreet, networked, and always as equals. Our team – multi-award-winning consultants with decades of experience in marketing, sales, and corporate management within the digital industry – supports startups, SMEs, and corporations in actively shaping the future of work.

We recruit for impact, not just positions. As our clients' partners, we operate openly, transparently, and according to the principles of proper HR consulting (BDU). Sustainability and social commitment are firmly embedded in our DNA: Since our founding, we have been carbon-neutral and invest 14% of our profits in social projects.

Five14 – Executive Search for leaders who shape the future.

About this podcast production

  • The podcast's intro voice-over was recorded by Chérine De Bruin.
  • The Deininger podcast "Suits & Sneakers" is a TON.EINS production.
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