About

As CEO of Jack Hammer Global, Debbie leads a group of companies specializing in executive search and leadership coaching. This includes Jack Hammer Africa, Jack Hammer USA, and Virtual Coaching Partners.

Under her leadership, Jack Hammer Africa has become the largest executive search boutique on the continent, with on-the-ground partners in all the main markets, appointing C-level candidates in local and global muti-nationals. Debbie’s main mission with her work over more than 2 decades is to help boards and CEOs to build amazing workplaces  – through finding and developing great leaders.

Alongside executive search, Debbie advises CEOs at pivotal moments – newly appointed, scaling fast, or preparing for transition – acting as both sounding board and strategist. She was named CEO Advisor & Coach of the Year – Africa 2025 by GBM.

As host of the acclaimed podcast “On Work & Revolution” and bestselling author of “IntheFlow” and “The Living Room Leader,“, Debbie is recognized as a global expert on workplace trends, advising organizations and leaders on what’s shaking up in the work of work.

Her background is somewhat unconventional: in her first career she was an award-winning dancer and choreographer, whilst completing her law degree. Her love for dance has come full circle: Debbie is currently a US Pro-Am ballroom dance champion.

Contact Debbie

Success Stories

“Thank you so much for yesterday’s insightful session—I truly enjoyed the way you framed and led the conversation. The discussion was both practical and actionable, with clear takeaways we can implement immediately and in the near future. Your contribution has added immense value to our programme and school.”

Camille Meyer, Programme Director: EMBA, Graduate School of Business (UCT)

“This deal announcement is the one YOU helped me with. Used some of my newly learned negotiation and communication approaches on this deal.”

Partner, VC Fund

“I can’t express how helpful it’s been to work with you. I feel so lucky to have found you – there’s literally no one else on the planet with more relevant experience and I’ve enjoyed our sessions immensely.”

Chris Q, CEO Stackshift

“A huge thank you from all of us at SAVCA for your support and valuable contribution to making SAVCA 20/20: Hindsight. Insight. Foresight. a reality. The positive feedback has been overwhelming and your session has been so well received – there has been a request for more exposure to you / your organisation.”

Tanya van Lill, (former) CEO, SA Venture Capital Association