Featuring presentations by four distinguished panelists and moderated by Peter Spiegel, U.S. Managing Editor of Financial Times, the session covered a wide array of challenges business and organizational leaders now face.
Marika Lulay, CEO and Managing Director of GFT Technologies referenced that even in these times of great social distancing everyone in her organization, if not the world, still seeks social contact. People wish to meet people. Yet, due to societal differences, it becomes impossible for one policy to suit all. As an example Marika Lulay explained that in Germany, where extended commute times are rare, people are more willing to return to the office, while in Sao Paulo her employees are pleased to avoid a more than one hour commute one-way, saving time and in the process, increasing productivity. Leaders must be sensitive to such regional differences.
Magdalena Mook, CEO and Executive Director of the International Coaching Federation shared that leaders today face an increased desire for greater honesty, transparency and even vulnerability from employees, shareholders and customers. Through this, key stakeholders gain an enhanced awareness of and connection to what a company or organization actually believes in.
Wilfried Porth, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, Human Resources and Director of Labor Relations, discussed the challenge of keeping people motivated particularly during times when a major corporation is going through transformational change. The imperative in that case, he said, is for more communication and clarity on social issues and concerns such as climate change.
Dr. Ralf Hofmann, CEO of MHP, A Porsche Company emphasized how his corporation is very much a “people business” which requires a clear expression of corporate values. In his view “values are key to success.”
We thank our sponsor of this E-Business After Hours event, Joe Communications.
