Joerg Niessing won the Outstanding Case Teacher Competition at The Case Centre Awards and Competitions 2025. #CaseAwards2025
Joerg is a Senior Affiliate Professor of Marketing at INSEAD, and the co-director of INSEAD’s flagship programmes Leading Digital Marketing Strategy, B2B Marketing Strategies and Driving Digital Marketing Strategy (OOPS).
Fresh off the back of his marketing category awards of 2018 and 2022, Joerg has cemented his place as a trailblazer for the case method with this award for Outstanding Case Teacher 2025.
Having also spent over a decade in management consulting, Joerg now brings his extensive business expertise to the academic world; teaching digital transformation, customer experience strategies, marketing, branding, and data analytics.
Cases are central to Joerg’s teaching.
Joerg has published over 25 academic cases and over 50 'mini-cases'. This has earnt him recognition with The Case Centre as the number 6 bestselling case author in 2020/21, and the highest new entry in 2019/2020 at number 16.
Joerg teaches around 100 case sessions annually to executives, MBA students, and undergraduates, while adapting cases to suit different cultural contexts and learning needs, which has secured him nine consecutive INSEAD Awards for Teaching Excellence.
Leading the way in innovation
For over 12 years at INSEAD, Joerg has been bringing real-world insights into his cases and teaching. Through direct interviews with C-level executives, enriching cases with supplementary videos, and guest appearances by case protagonists; Joerg facilitates a deeper exploration and connection with case material.
In 2024, Joerg took case-based learning a step further by publishing his first virtual reality case, enabling immersive role-play that goes beyond the limitations of a traditional classroom.
Joerg is also leveraging AI-aided strategy platforms that provide students with live insights in the classroom. The platforms enable students to apply frameworks in real time and e.g. create customer experiences on-the-spot during case discussions.
This experience has been described by students as "groundbreaking". By providing opportunities for students to share first-hand insights, classroom discussions are more dynamic and authentic, ultimately supporting students to go deeper in their learning.
Championing broader application of the case method
Beyond the classroom, Joerg has been a leading advocate for expanding case-based learning across INSEAD’s executive education programmes. Through mentoring new educators, leading faculty workshops, and sharing best practices in case teaching, Joerg is advancing the case method and enhancing students’ learning experiences.
We are delighted to recognise Joerg’s outstanding work in case teaching. While celebrating INSEAD in what will be their 102nd case award, and their 2nd win for the Outstanding Case Teacher competition, following Pierre Chandon’s win in 2018.
Joerg shares his reflections on winning Outstanding Case Teacher 2025.
A journey of learning, experimentation, and connection
"Winning this award is a tremendous honour and a deeply meaningful recognition of my passion and commitment to case teaching. Teaching with cases has always been about more than just sharing knowledge. It’s about empowering students to think critically, embrace ambiguity, and lead with confidence.
"Teaching with cases is like inviting students into a real-world boardroom where they must grapple with the complexities, uncertainties, and dynamics of decision-making. It’s not just about understanding theory; it’s about applying it, merging it with practice, challenging perspectives, and building a narrative.
"But what I love most is the energy in the classroom. The exchange of ideas, the diversity of thought, the moments where students connect the dots or find a breakthrough.
Case teaching transforms learning into a shared journey of discovery and growth. And this award is a milestone in my own voyage of learning, experimentation, and connection."
Creating a safe space
"It’s important to create a space where students feel heard and challenged, and of sparking meaningful conversations that extend beyond the classroom. For effective case discussions students need to feel empowered to express their views, challenge assumptions, and develop critical leadership skills.
"My goal has always been to make learning deeply relevant and applicable, whether by designing innovative tools or integrating real-world examples into case discussions. Most of all, I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built with students and executive leaders over the years - they’re a testament to the impact of this teaching method."
Pushing the boundaries
"With artificial intelligence reshaping industries I wanted to provide a hands-on, interactive way to support students in leveraging this technology to navigate the complexities of the digital age.
"The AI strategy platform I’m leveraging in class enables students to generate insights and ideas in seconds on concepts such as segmentation, customer personas, customer journey maps, and other strategic frameworks. The goal is to empower students to make informed decisions, generate meaningful insights, and take control of complex strategic challenges with confidence.
"Our virtual reality case was inspired by my desire to push the boundaries of immersive learning. I wanted to create an experience that didn’t just simulate a business challenge but made students feel like they were living it. By placing them in real-world scenarios, they could better understand the nuances of decision-making and develop empathy for stakeholders, which is so crucial in leadership."
The importance of collaboration
"Just as the case method thrives on collaboration between educators, students, and industry partners, this award has also been a collective effort. I’d like to acknowledge the fantastic protagonists and leaders from the 25 organisations I’ve written cases about. Their input, interviews, and guest lectures have brought the cases to life.
"In this vein I am incredibly grateful to my students and executive leaders for their curiosity, energy, insights and engaging discussions in the classroom. I learn so much from every class I deliver and feel inspired and challenged to continuously innovate and improve.
"I also want to thank my colleagues at INSEAD whose insights have been invaluable when I’ve written cases. In particular, my colleague, Pierre Chandon, has been an incredible sparring partner and mentor."
The final word
"This achievement has only been possible because of my supportive colleagues at INSEAD who continuously motivate and energise me; the fantastic companies who collaborate with us in writing cases; the guest lecturers by case protagonists who bring their stories to life; and, most importantly, the students and executive leaders in the classroom.
"This award is as much theirs as it is mine, and I am deeply grateful for their contributions to this journey."
Hear from Joerg’s students and colleagues.
“Joerg Niessing’s dedication to teaching cases is truly exceptional. He skilfully engages a diverse range of students in the case method, from bachelor students to C-level executives. His ability to adapt his teaching methods to suit different audiences and his deep understanding of the material have made him a standout educator at INSEAD.
“He demonstrates a remarkable commitment to case teaching, teaching an impressive 1-2 cases per week, 75% of which are his own cases. Moreover, his contributions to case teaching extend beyond the classroom. He has authored over 25 cases and has taught cases in over 40 countries, while breaking new ground with his virtual reality case.
“Joerg’s extraordinary efforts in case teaching make him a truly deserving winner of this Outstanding Case Teacher award.”
“As a colleague at INSEAD, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing Joerg Niessing’s transformative teaching methods and his profound impact on students. He uses a very dynamic and engaging approach to case-based teaching. He combines carefully selected case studies, many of which he authored; interactive discussions; and innovative tools, including an AI-aided strategy platform.
“Joerg’s deep industry experience, paired with academic rigour, set him apart. And his ability to convey complex business concepts in a clear, accessible, and insightful way motivates and inspires his students.
“But what truly distinguishes Joerg is his thorough case curation, rooted in real-world business challenges. With over 25 published cases and over 50 mini-cases, many of which have won awards, he successfully integrates them into his curriculum to give students an enhanced learning experience.
“Joerg’s foresight in case design ensures a compelling classroom experience. He has personally built relationships with key stakeholders and case protagonists and secured exclusive video interviews to supplement cases.
“His unique blend of case-writing talent, outstanding classroom performance, academic expertise, and over 15 years of business consulting experience make him an exceptional educator.”
“As an Executive MBA student at INSEAD in 2024, I can confidently say that Professor Joerg’s approach to case education is both remarkable and highly effective. His method of delivering complex content and frameworks through case studies, real world examples, and guest speakers is exceptional.
“Not only does he excel at case-based teaching, but his 15 years of experience in management consulting uniquely equip him to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application. This ability to help students immediately translate classroom learnings into actionable strategies in their professional lives, sets him apart.”
“Having Professor Niessing as a visiting professor has been tremendous.
“Professor Joerg’s diverse case studies, hands-on exercises, and in-depth discussions create an inspiring environment that encourage critical and creative thinking. While his commitment to case-based learning is unmatched, he continually seeks to enhance the learning experience by incorporating new technologies and tools.
“For example, his AI-powered learning platform empowers students to design customer experiences and innovative business models in real-time using integrated Large Language Models.
“Professor Joerg’s unique blend of academic rigour, business expertise, practical application, award-winning case writing, and continuous innovation make him exceptionally deserving of the Outstanding Case Teacher Award.”
The competition was judged by Euvin Naidoo, Thunderbird School of Global Management; Kakoli Sen, Solbridge International School of Business; Sandra Pereira, Warwick Business School; and Vicky Lester, The Case Centre.
“Joerg Niessing is an expert consultant, prolific case writer, and innovative teacher. As the author of a considerable number of cases he’s able to engage with cases deeply in the classroom, while his excellent delivery enhances his ability to connect with multiple audiences.
“It’s clear that Joerg has a natural ability to engage students using diverse and tailored methods, including his integration of new trends and technologies, and his humour. His use of AI and virtual reality in particular, speak to his adaptability and willingness to evolve which is essential in reflecting the wider societal context.
"The testimonials from his colleagues and students speak volumes about the impact of his teaching, and it’s inspiring to hear about the work he does in expanding the use of the case method at INSEAD and beyond.
"Truly outstanding."
Vicky Lester, on behalf of the judging panel.
The teacher
Joerg is a Senior Affiliate Professor of Marketing at INSEAD, and the co-director of INSEAD’s flagship programmes Leading Digital Marketing Strategy, B2B Marketing Strategies and Driving Digital Marketing Strategy (OOPS).
Fresh off the back of his marketing category awards of 2018 and 2022, Joerg has cemented his place as a trailblazer for the case method with this award for Outstanding Case Teacher 2025.
Having also spent over a decade in management consulting, Joerg now brings his extensive business expertise to the academic world; teaching digital transformation, customer experience strategies, marketing, branding, and data analytics.
Cases are central to Joerg’s teaching.
Joerg has published over 25 academic cases and over 50 'mini-cases'. This has earnt him recognition with The Case Centre as the number 6 bestselling case author in 2020/21, and the highest new entry in 2019/2020 at number 16.
Joerg teaches around 100 case sessions annually to executives, MBA students, and undergraduates, while adapting cases to suit different cultural contexts and learning needs, which has secured him nine consecutive INSEAD Awards for Teaching Excellence.
Leading the way in innovation
For over 12 years at INSEAD, Joerg has been bringing real-world insights into his cases and teaching. Through direct interviews with C-level executives, enriching cases with supplementary videos, and guest appearances by case protagonists; Joerg facilitates a deeper exploration and connection with case material.
In 2024, Joerg took case-based learning a step further by publishing his first virtual reality case, enabling immersive role-play that goes beyond the limitations of a traditional classroom.
Joerg is also leveraging AI-aided strategy platforms that provide students with live insights in the classroom. The platforms enable students to apply frameworks in real time and e.g. create customer experiences on-the-spot during case discussions.
This experience has been described by students as "groundbreaking". By providing opportunities for students to share first-hand insights, classroom discussions are more dynamic and authentic, ultimately supporting students to go deeper in their learning.
Championing broader application of the case method
Beyond the classroom, Joerg has been a leading advocate for expanding case-based learning across INSEAD’s executive education programmes. Through mentoring new educators, leading faculty workshops, and sharing best practices in case teaching, Joerg is advancing the case method and enhancing students’ learning experiences.
We are delighted to recognise Joerg’s outstanding work in case teaching. While celebrating INSEAD in what will be their 102nd case award, and their 2nd win for the Outstanding Case Teacher competition, following Pierre Chandon’s win in 2018.
Hear from Joerg
Joerg shares his reflections on winning Outstanding Case Teacher 2025.
A journey of learning, experimentation, and connection
"Winning this award is a tremendous honour and a deeply meaningful recognition of my passion and commitment to case teaching. Teaching with cases has always been about more than just sharing knowledge. It’s about empowering students to think critically, embrace ambiguity, and lead with confidence.
"Teaching with cases is like inviting students into a real-world boardroom where they must grapple with the complexities, uncertainties, and dynamics of decision-making. It’s not just about understanding theory; it’s about applying it, merging it with practice, challenging perspectives, and building a narrative.
"But what I love most is the energy in the classroom. The exchange of ideas, the diversity of thought, the moments where students connect the dots or find a breakthrough.
Case teaching transforms learning into a shared journey of discovery and growth. And this award is a milestone in my own voyage of learning, experimentation, and connection."
Creating a safe space
"It’s important to create a space where students feel heard and challenged, and of sparking meaningful conversations that extend beyond the classroom. For effective case discussions students need to feel empowered to express their views, challenge assumptions, and develop critical leadership skills.
"My goal has always been to make learning deeply relevant and applicable, whether by designing innovative tools or integrating real-world examples into case discussions. Most of all, I’m proud of the relationships I’ve built with students and executive leaders over the years - they’re a testament to the impact of this teaching method."
Pushing the boundaries
"With artificial intelligence reshaping industries I wanted to provide a hands-on, interactive way to support students in leveraging this technology to navigate the complexities of the digital age.
"The AI strategy platform I’m leveraging in class enables students to generate insights and ideas in seconds on concepts such as segmentation, customer personas, customer journey maps, and other strategic frameworks. The goal is to empower students to make informed decisions, generate meaningful insights, and take control of complex strategic challenges with confidence.
"Our virtual reality case was inspired by my desire to push the boundaries of immersive learning. I wanted to create an experience that didn’t just simulate a business challenge but made students feel like they were living it. By placing them in real-world scenarios, they could better understand the nuances of decision-making and develop empathy for stakeholders, which is so crucial in leadership."
The importance of collaboration
"Just as the case method thrives on collaboration between educators, students, and industry partners, this award has also been a collective effort. I’d like to acknowledge the fantastic protagonists and leaders from the 25 organisations I’ve written cases about. Their input, interviews, and guest lectures have brought the cases to life.
"In this vein I am incredibly grateful to my students and executive leaders for their curiosity, energy, insights and engaging discussions in the classroom. I learn so much from every class I deliver and feel inspired and challenged to continuously innovate and improve.
"I also want to thank my colleagues at INSEAD whose insights have been invaluable when I’ve written cases. In particular, my colleague, Pierre Chandon, has been an incredible sparring partner and mentor."
The final word
"This achievement has only been possible because of my supportive colleagues at INSEAD who continuously motivate and energise me; the fantastic companies who collaborate with us in writing cases; the guest lecturers by case protagonists who bring their stories to life; and, most importantly, the students and executive leaders in the classroom.
"This award is as much theirs as it is mine, and I am deeply grateful for their contributions to this journey."
Testimonials
Hear from Joerg’s students and colleagues.
“Joerg Niessing’s dedication to teaching cases is truly exceptional. He skilfully engages a diverse range of students in the case method, from bachelor students to C-level executives. His ability to adapt his teaching methods to suit different audiences and his deep understanding of the material have made him a standout educator at INSEAD.
“He demonstrates a remarkable commitment to case teaching, teaching an impressive 1-2 cases per week, 75% of which are his own cases. Moreover, his contributions to case teaching extend beyond the classroom. He has authored over 25 cases and has taught cases in over 40 countries, while breaking new ground with his virtual reality case.
“Joerg’s extraordinary efforts in case teaching make him a truly deserving winner of this Outstanding Case Teacher award.”
“As a colleague at INSEAD, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing Joerg Niessing’s transformative teaching methods and his profound impact on students. He uses a very dynamic and engaging approach to case-based teaching. He combines carefully selected case studies, many of which he authored; interactive discussions; and innovative tools, including an AI-aided strategy platform.
“Joerg’s deep industry experience, paired with academic rigour, set him apart. And his ability to convey complex business concepts in a clear, accessible, and insightful way motivates and inspires his students.
“But what truly distinguishes Joerg is his thorough case curation, rooted in real-world business challenges. With over 25 published cases and over 50 mini-cases, many of which have won awards, he successfully integrates them into his curriculum to give students an enhanced learning experience.
“Joerg’s foresight in case design ensures a compelling classroom experience. He has personally built relationships with key stakeholders and case protagonists and secured exclusive video interviews to supplement cases.
“His unique blend of case-writing talent, outstanding classroom performance, academic expertise, and over 15 years of business consulting experience make him an exceptional educator.”
“As an Executive MBA student at INSEAD in 2024, I can confidently say that Professor Joerg’s approach to case education is both remarkable and highly effective. His method of delivering complex content and frameworks through case studies, real world examples, and guest speakers is exceptional.
“Not only does he excel at case-based teaching, but his 15 years of experience in management consulting uniquely equip him to bridge the gap between academic theory and practical application. This ability to help students immediately translate classroom learnings into actionable strategies in their professional lives, sets him apart.”
“Having Professor Niessing as a visiting professor has been tremendous.
“Professor Joerg’s diverse case studies, hands-on exercises, and in-depth discussions create an inspiring environment that encourage critical and creative thinking. While his commitment to case-based learning is unmatched, he continually seeks to enhance the learning experience by incorporating new technologies and tools.
“For example, his AI-powered learning platform empowers students to design customer experiences and innovative business models in real-time using integrated Large Language Models.
“Professor Joerg’s unique blend of academic rigour, business expertise, practical application, award-winning case writing, and continuous innovation make him exceptionally deserving of the Outstanding Case Teacher Award.”
Judges viewpoint
The competition was judged by Euvin Naidoo, Thunderbird School of Global Management; Kakoli Sen, Solbridge International School of Business; Sandra Pereira, Warwick Business School; and Vicky Lester, The Case Centre.
“Joerg Niessing is an expert consultant, prolific case writer, and innovative teacher. As the author of a considerable number of cases he’s able to engage with cases deeply in the classroom, while his excellent delivery enhances his ability to connect with multiple audiences.
“It’s clear that Joerg has a natural ability to engage students using diverse and tailored methods, including his integration of new trends and technologies, and his humour. His use of AI and virtual reality in particular, speak to his adaptability and willingness to evolve which is essential in reflecting the wider societal context.
"The testimonials from his colleagues and students speak volumes about the impact of his teaching, and it’s inspiring to hear about the work he does in expanding the use of the case method at INSEAD and beyond.
"Truly outstanding."
Vicky Lester, on behalf of the judging panel.
