Russ Steinhorst (l) and Dirk Hehenkamp.
HAMBURG, Germany—After more than 17 years with Shopko, Shopko Optical and Fielmann USA, Fielmann Group’s current U.S. CEO Russ Steinhorst has decided to retire, the company told VMAIL today. Dirk Hehenkamp, the company’s current vice president of global markets, has been tagged to take on the role, effective June 13, 2026. Steinhorst is scheduled to depart the organization on June 12, 2026, the company advised, and Hehenkamp will assume the role of CEO of Fielmann USA in addition to his current responsibilities.
This leadership change was announced as part of what the company identified as a broader plan, stating, “In line with its Vision 2035, Fielmann Group is continuing to develop into the most trusted partner for hearing and vision globally. As the company redefines what patients in the United States can expect from eyecare and eyewear, it is announcing a leadership change as part of a long-term succession plan.” Under Steinhorst’s leadership, the company said, Fielmann USA successfully integrated its U.S. platform and advanced its business model transformation.
Having joined the Fielmann Group in 2022, Hehenkamp transformed the company’s optometry business into a global organization with leading market positions across many European regions and in the Upper Midwest of the United States, the company advised, pointing to his international leadership experience, commercial expertise, and a deep understanding of business needs and ambitions. Hehenkamp relocated to Chicago in March 2026 to ensure a smooth transition process, the company said.
“On behalf of the management board, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Russ for his many years of dedication, loyalty, and outstanding contributions to Shopko Optical. He has been instrumental in the integration of our U.S. acquisitions,” said Fielmann Group chief sales officer Bastian Koerber. “With expected sales of $1 billion in 2030 the United States is our most important growth market. Working with Dirk daily, I know that he always puts our patients first. With his outstanding leadership, experience, and commitment he will successfully transform Fielmann USA into the most customer-centric vision care provider. I wish him a lot of success in his extended role.”
Steinhorst, who had served as CFO of Fielmann USA and was formerly CEO of Shopko Optical, was appointed to the role of CEO in January 2025.
