Shows
Leaders UnpluggedFrom the classroom to the boardroom – why do IMD alumni lead differently?Three alumni. Three decades. One question: What makes IMD’s leadership journey so lasting? What do a former Olympic basketball player, a Japanese strategist in London, and a Swiss energy executive have in common? IMD. In this special MBA reunion episode of Leaders Unplugged, IMD President David Bach welcomes - John Hatch (MBA 1990)- Kazumi Nakayama (MBA 2015)- Aurore Amaudruz (MBA 2020) for an honest, funny, and reflective conversation on what IMD taught them - and how it shaped the le...
2025-06-0226 min
Leaders UnpluggedEpisode 3: David Bach with Stuart DeCew and Geraldine MatchettWelcome to the third episode of Leaders Unplugged, presented by IMD, and hosted by IMD's president David Bach, together with Remote Daily's founder Felix Zeltner. Leaders Unplugged is real talk with the impactful – candid, honest, and fresh from behind the scenes. Today, we take you behind the scenes of a recent gathering led by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development together with IMD, where David sat down with two sustainability experts and leaders: Geraldine Matchett, global board member at Nestlé, ABB, and SwissRe, and Chair of the steering committee of the influential Greenhouse Gas Pro...
2025-04-1738 min
Leaders UnpluggedEpisode 2: David Bach and UBS CEO Sergio ErmottiWelcome to the second episode of Leaders Unplugged, a bi-weekly podcast by IMD, hosted by IMD President David Bach with Felix Zeltner. In this wide-ranging chat, David goes from the global to the personal with one of the world’s most prominent bankers: UBS CEO Sergio Ermotti. At a recent event in Lausanne, Sergio Ermotti joined Bach on stage and put a host of burning questions and discussion points into a larger perspective. Taken straight from the headlines, Ermotti gives his impressions on AI, cryptocurrencies, tariffs, the UBS-Credit Suisse merger, and how Europe should respond to...
2025-04-0732 min
ManagementCast by IMDCan biodiversity credits alter the landscape for nature conservation?IMD Senior Researcher Adrian Dellecker is joined in the latest I by IMD podcast by Mariana Sarmiento, Founder and CEO of Terrasos, a company developing innovative solutions for environmental conservation and restoration. In this episode, you will learn about the business opportunities in the new market for voluntary biodiversity credits and more. Find out more about IMD at imd.org
2025-04-0325 min
ManagementCast by IMDCan eDNA revolutionize biodiversity monitoring?IMD Senior Researcher Adrian Dellecker is joined in the latest I by IMD podcast by Kristy Deiner, a well-respected academic and entrepreneurial figure in Environmental DNA (eDNA) science. She was a professor on the subject at ETH Zurich, and in 2021 she co-founded SimplexDNA, where she is now CEO. In this episode, you will learn some fundamentals of biodiversity, what eDNA is and what promises and advances it holds in store. Find out more about IMD at imd.org
2025-04-0331 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Howard Yu speaks with Julie Linn Teigland of EYLeaders are under pressure to project certainty and to know all the answers. In this interview podcast, Julie Linn Teigland, a Managing Partner at EY, tells IMD’s Howard Yu why it’s better to admit you’re unsure and collaborate to find a solution.*****Read our magazine, I by IMD, here: https://www.imd.org/ibyimd/Discover IMD's leadership programmes here: https://www.imd.org/leadership-programs
2025-03-2132 min
Leaders UnpluggedWelcome to Leaders Unplugged!Welcome to the inaugural episode of Leaders Unplugged, presented by IMD and hosted by IMD President David Bach and Felix Zeltner. To kick things off, David and Felix discuss the key learnings from David's recent travels that took him from the World Economic Forum to the World Government Summit, to business school conferences in Las Vegas and Lisbon, and back to IMD's home in Lausanne.Also a Nestlé Professor of Strategy and Political Economy, David shares his key takeaways, encounters with leaders that have inspired him, and what he is most optimistic about in these very uncertain t...
2025-03-2130 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalThe future of agritech investing, with Jim Pulcrano & Rob TriceRob Trice is an established international venture capital investor. He is currently leveraging his background in telecom, mobile and internet investing to fund companies that apply IT to the food and agriculture sectors via Better Food Ventures, a seed stage investment entity established in 2013.Jim Pulcrano is Adjunct Professor of Entrepreneurship and Management. He has extensive expertise in entrepreneurship, particularly startup culture, strategy, customer centricity, marketing, and disruption.***Through our research, thought leadership, and annual program, IMD’s Venture Asset Management Initiative aims to demystify venture asset management in Switzerland and across Eu...
2025-02-2722 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalBeyond the obvious: quiet predictors of VC fund performance with Michael KimCendana Capital is a San Francisco-based fund of funds investing in early-stage venture capital ventures. The firm was launched in 2010 and has over $2B in assets. Cendana has invested in many VC teams that have gone on to enjoy great success, like Forerunner Ventures, K9 Ventures, and IA Ventures.In this episode, the founder of Cendana, Michael Kim, focuses specifically on the strategies institutional LPs use to evaluate and partner with new and emerging GPs, covering key topics like identifying high-potential investments, navigating long-term portfolios, leveraging secondary opportunities, and assessing cultural fluency in global markets.
2025-02-1136 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalAlternative Exit Options for VC Funds, with Liz CampbellLiz Campbell, CIO at Portfolio Advisors, discusses the challenges of realising returns in an increasingly sophisticated VC market. Founded in 1994, Portfolio Advisors is an experienced private markets manager with dedicated primary, secondary, co-investment, real estate and direct credit teams. In 2023, Portfolio Advisors combined with FS Investments, a pioneer in the democratization of alternative assets. Together, they manage over $82 billion in assets.***Through our research, thought leadership, and annual program, IMD’s Venture Asset Management Initiative aims to demystify venture asset management in Switzerland and across Europe.To find out more about IM...
2025-01-2732 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalThe rules of VC, with David Clark CIO at VenCap InternationalSince its inception, VenCap has committed $2.9 billion to over 450 venture capital funds in the US, Europe, China and India. As CIO David Clark has decades of experience and access to unparalleled data, and in this episode of Capital Conversations he explores the cycles, metrics and misconceptions associated with VC.***Through our research, thought leadership, and annual program, IMD’s Venture Asset Management Initiative aims to demystify venture asset management in Switzerland and across Europe.To find out more about IMD visit imd.orgFor more information about our Venture Capital Asset Ma...
2025-01-0322 min
I by IMDDidier Cossin: High performance boardsDidier Cossin discusses the latest edition of his book "High Performance Boards," a comprehensive guide to transforming boards and achieving best-practice governance in any organisation.****Didier Cossin is Chaired Professor of Governance and Finance at IMD, and Founder and Director of the IMD Global Board Center. He works with owners, boards, and senior leaders to help them improve organizational performance through best-in-class governance and decision-making. He also holds the UBS Chair in Banking and Finance.Read our magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.
2024-12-1830 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalSia Houchangnia on building relationships that empower foundersSia Houchangia joined Seedcamp as an intern in 2014 and became a partner in 2017. Seedcamp is a leading European seed fund that has backed over 500 tech-driven startups, including Sorare, Revolut, UiPath, Wise, and Synthesia.****Through our research, thought leadership, and annual program, IMD’s Venture Asset Management Initiative aims to demystify venture asset management in Switzerland and across Europe.To find out more about IMD visit imd.orgFor more information about our Venture Capital Asset Management program visit: imd.org/finance/vam/
2024-12-0630 min
I by IMDDavid Bach: The first 90 days as IMD PresidentMichael Watkins, Professor of Leadership and Organizational Change and author of the international bestseller The First 90 Days, speaks to IMD President David Bach about how he has found the transition to his new role.Also available as a video on imd.org here****David Bach began his term as IMD President in September 2024, and is focused on making IMD the world’s most impactful business school. Together with his leadership team and the entire IMD community, he is working to broaden and deepen IMD’s global impact through learning innovation, excellence in degree- and e...
2024-11-2932 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalBpifrance: How a government initiative can support domestic venture capitalFrance's national investment bank, led by Nicolas Dufourc, finances businesses at every stage of development through loans, guarantees, and equity investments. In this week's episode, we explore its pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship through a grassroots approach to innovation and commitment to supporting diverse communities. Dufourc discusses why Bpifrance emphasizes the importance of perseverance and risk-taking among entrepreneurs, and how he works to create a holistic ecosystem of support for them. He promotes accessibility and inclusivity at every stage, and Bpifrance may well serve as a model for other countries that want to drive innovation...
2024-11-1919 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechThe launch of the AI safety clockThe IMD AI Safety Clock is a tool designed to evaluate the risks of Uncontrolled Artificial General Intelligence (UAGI) – autonomous AI systems that operate without human oversight and could potentially cause significant harm.Our mission is to evaluate and communicate these risks to the public, policymakers, and business leaders, helping ensure the safe development and use of AI technologies. *****Michael Wade is a Professor of Innovation and Strategy and Director of the IMD Global Center for Digital Business Transformation. He also holds the Cisco Chair in Digital Business Transformation. An expert in...
2024-11-0717 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalEurope's Untapped Venture Capital Potential, with Nathaniel Gunn Arnold and Jan-Martin Frie from the IMFOver the past decade, American VCs have outraised their European counterparts by hundreds of billions of dollars. But why? Nathaniel Arnold and Jan-Martin Frie say several factors are at play, including fragmented markets, a disparity in private capital, and Europe's comparative absence of institutional investors. The result has been a "scale-up gap" pushing promising EU startups to seek foreign funding.In this episode of Capital Conversations, Arnold and Frie explore the challenges and opportunities in the European VC landscape, and discuss how the "brain drain" effect is hampering the growth of startups on the continent.
2024-10-2933 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalFrom crisis to growth: Navigating portfolio triage in venture capital with Michael StuckyIn the high-stakes context of venture capital, portfolio triage isn't just a strategy – it's a survival skill. As markets shift and startups struggle, VCs face the brutal task of deciding which companies to save and which to let go. But it's not just about cold, hard numbers. It's a delicate dance of managing expectations, balancing resources, and sometimes delivering hard truths to passionate founders Michael Stucky is Chief Investment Officer at Serpentine Ventures and a coach and mentor of young entrepreneurs and spin-off companies from ETH Zurich (ETHZ). In this episode, we dive into...
2024-08-2913 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechDefence tech: From TNT to AISince the dawn of history, humans have turned to technological innovations to win wars.In the battle of Agincourt, French knights saw their superior numbers whittled down by English longbows. On the fields of Flanders, tanks and machine guns heralded a new age of mechanized destruction. The advent of TNT brought explosive power to battlefields long before the atomic bomb changed the face of war forever.At a certain point, technological developments meant that physical strength, and even numerical superiority, could be largely decoupled from victory. Those with the biggest guns, and smartest machines...
2024-08-2227 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalThe 'Trust Factor' in building strong GP-LP relationships, with Harshul SanghiIn this new episode of Capital Conversations, Harshul Sanghi outlines the critical factors that underpin successful GP-LP relationships in venture capital, and the value of trust.Harshul Sanghi is a Co-Founding Partner at WillowTree Investments. During his tenure as head of the $1.3 billion venture capital division at American Express that he founded in 2011, he pioneered strategic investments, fostering partnerships with 89 companies and significantly contributing to the company's innovation strategy.*****Through our research, thought leadership, and annual program, IMD’s Venture Asset Management Initiative aims to demystify venture asset management in Switzerland and ac...
2024-07-3113 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechHow Silicon Valley firms are putting the "AI" in retailThis year, Amazon celebrated 30 years in business.By creating a virtual space where (almost) everything was available at the click of a button, the Seattle-based tech firm changed the face of retail. Tempted away from brick-and-mortar stores by the convenience of online shopping, Amazon created a whole new kind of consumer.However, not all of its retail ideas have been successful. The company recently decided to close nearly all its cashless physical stores because of low sales. Customers just weren't buying into the concept of a till-less store.This demonstrates a simple, but...
2024-07-1817 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechTech & sports: Could your next coach be a computer?In an era of desk jobs, sedentary lifestyles are common. Combined with the rise of ultra-processed food, it's no wonder so many people find it hard to stay in shape, despite their best intentions.To help out, there's a plethora of tech to choose from. From apps that count calories to wearable health trackers, innumerable gadgets promise a slimmer, stronger you.But at what point does all this tech get in the way of a healthy life? When are there too many apps to keep an eye on? In this week's episode, Matt a...
2024-07-0417 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalPt.2 Specialization in action: Inside a specialist VC's playbook for successPart 2 of Capital Conversations, with Evgenia Plotnikova.As technology advances and industries transform, venture capitalists face a critical decision: should they cast a wide net, or home in on a niche?To guide investors through this choice, Evgenia Plotnikova, General Partner at Dawn Capital, has sat down with IMD's venture asset management team.As the youngest woman in Europe to be internally promoted to GP, Evgenia leads the company's B2B SaaS (Software as a Service) deals from early stage to pre-IPO. With a particular love for data, automation, and cloud infrastructure, she...
2024-07-0117 min
The CEO DialogueRinging the changes: Vodafone ‘insider’ Margherita Della Valle makes some tough calls as CEOMargherita Della Valle tells IMD President Jean-François Manzoni how she is delivering radical change to reenergize Vodafone and paving the way for greater diversity in leadership.--Read our magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.
2024-06-2641 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechTech & sports: The rise of EsportsMike and Amit discuss how games like football and tennis have paved the way for the $2bn industry of Esports.*********Michael Wade is a Professor of Innovation and Strategy and Director of the IMD Global Center for Digital Business Transformation. He also holds the Cisco Chair in Digital Business Transformation. An expert in digital transformation, he has published 10 books and more than 100 case studies, as well as articles on topics such as digital business transformation, innovation, strategy, and digital leadership. Amit Joshi is a Professor of AI, Analytics, and Marketing Strategy. He specializes in...
2024-06-2017 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalSpecialization in action: Inside a specialist VC's playbook for successAs technology advances and industries transform, venture capitalists face a critical decision: should they cast a wide net, or home in on a niche?To guide investors through this choice, Evgenia Plotnikova, General Partner at Dawn Capital, has sat down with IMD's venture asset management team.As the youngest woman in Europe to be internally promoted to GP, Evgenia leads the company's B2B SaaS (Software as a Service) deals from early stage to pre-IPO. With a particular love for data, automation, and cloud infrastructure, she has led the firm's investments in Dataiku, Soldo, and...
2024-06-1416 minMike & Amit Talk TechTech in sports: How analytics has changed the prosThere's no doubt that statistics and data play an important role in professional sports. Whether in soccer, cricket, or American football, superfans have always been interested in goals scored, passes caught, or wickets taken. But the point at which the value of that data became apparent was the advent of "Moneyball" in the early 2000s, which revolutionized Major League Baseball.Popularized by a 2011 film starring Brad Pitt, the clever use of discreet data by Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane was a watershed moment for coaches and owners and altered the DNA of pro leagues i...
2024-06-0620 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalBertrand Mueller on the marriage of pension funds and VCsWith trillions in assets worldwide, pension funds play a dual role, acting as both asset and liability managers, influencing their exposure to venture capital. In this episode of Capital Conversations, Bertrand Mueller a founding partner at DAA Capital, uncovers the strategies and dynamics behind this often-overlooked relationship.We learn how pension funds shape their engagement with venture capital by providing stable, long-term capital, adjusting risk profiles, and seeking diversification within the venture capital landscape.*****Through our research, thought leadership, and annual program, IMD’s Venture Asset Management Initiative aims to demystify ve...
2024-05-1418 minMike & Amit Talk TechNVIDIA: The tech giant building the future of chipsMike and Amit talk about the giant chipmaker NVIDIA, and how it's creating the technology of tomorrow.*********Michael Wade is a Professor of Innovation and Strategy and Director of the IMD Global Center for Digital Business Transformation. He also holds the Cisco Chair in Digital Business Transformation. An expert in digital transformation, he has published 10 books and more than 100 case studies, as well as articles on topics such as digital business transformation, innovation, strategy, and digital leadership. Amit Joshi is a Professor of AI, Analytics, and Marketing Strategy. He specializes in helping org...
2024-05-0216 minMike & Amit Talk TechWhy does artificial intelligence need regulating?In March 2024, the European Union approved the world’s first set of major regulatory rules to govern artificial intelligence. The EU AI Act categorizes technologies by risk – low, medium, high, and "unacceptable." Those deemed the most dangerous can, in Europe, be shut down entirely.It was a huge change in the tech world, but many may wonder why it was needed. Forms of AI have been used for decades, so aren't existing laws enough? And how does generative AI differ from traditional AI? Mike Wade says it comes down to power. Generative AI is worlds apart...
2024-04-1819 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalPt.2 Chris Douvos of Ahoy Capital on the evolution of the emerging managers segmentPart 2 of our conversation with Chris Douvos, on how the Emerging Managers segment in Venture Capital has evolved since 2010.Chris Douvos founded Ahoy Capital in 2018, focusing on backing emerging venture capital fund managers. With nearly two decades in venture capital, he's a pioneer in the micro-VC movement.At Ahoy Capital, the focus is on intentionally right-sized investment vehicles, believing that size can hinder performance. They prioritize concentrated portfolios, anchored by top-performing VC managers, alongside dynamic emerging managers and co-investments.With experience catalyzing leading managers since the early micro-VC days, Ahoy pursues a conviction-based...
2024-04-1018 minMike & Amit Talk TechHow AI is taking the Biotech industry by stormMike & Amit talk about the future of Biotech, and how Artificial Intelligence may speed up healthcare and drug development.*********Michael Wade is a Professor of Innovation and Strategy and Director of the IMD Global Center for Digital Business Transformation. He also holds the Cisco Chair in Digital Business Transformation. An expert in digital transformation, he has published 10 books and more than 100 case studies, as well as articles on topics such as digital business transformation, innovation, strategy, and digital leadership. Amit Joshi is a Professor of AI, Analytics, and Marketing Strategy. He specializes in hel...
2024-04-0416 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Chris Tung, President of Strategic Development at Alibaba GroupChris Tung is President of Strategic Development at Alibaba Group, a Chinese multinational specializing in e-commerce, retail, and technology. He tells IMD's Amit Joshi how the company is integrating AI to optimize...--Read our magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.
2024-03-2534 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalChris Douvos of Ahoy Capital, discusses the evolution of the emerging managers segment Pt.1In this new episode of Capital Conversations, we explore “How the Emerging Managers segment in Venture Capital has evolved since 2010” with Chris Douvos. Chris Douvos founded Ahoy Capital in 2018, focusing on backing emerging venture capital fund managers. With nearly two decades in venture capital, he's a pioneer in the micro-VC movement. At Ahoy Capital, the focus is on intentionally right-sized investment vehicles, believing that size can hinder performance. They prioritize concentrated portfolios, anchored by top-performing VC managers, alongside dynamic emerging managers and co-investments. With experience catalyzing leading managers since the early micro-VC days, Ahoy...
2024-03-2214 minMike & Amit Talk TechSora and Gemini: Innovations in AIThe 21st century has been dominated by video. At its start, camcorders allowed amateurs to make their own home movies, and by 2023, the likes of TikTok had become ubiquitous. Phones and social media platforms made shooting and editing child play.But 2024 is seeing another change, one that may shake the very foundation of video itself.Sora, from Open AI, is an Artificial Intelligence construct that can produce film with only a text prompt. Soon, being on the spot with a camera or a phone, may be totally unnecessary for those seeking to create photorealistic movies...
2024-03-2118 min
ManagementCast by IMDTurning failure into success, with Zhike LeiZhike Lei is Professor of Leadership and Organizational Behavior at IMD. She is an award-winning organizational scholar and an expert on psychological safety, team dynamics, organizational learning, error management, and patient safety.Lei studies how organizations, teams, and employees adapt and learn in complex, time-pressured, consequence-laden environments. As a global management educator, she has taught executives and PhD, DBA, EMBA, and MBA candidates, as well as undergraduates, and has won numerous teaching awards and recognitions.Find out more about IMD at imd.org
2024-02-2218 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalPt.2 Challenging Dogmatic Narratives in Venture Capital, with Fergal Mullen, Co-Founder & Partner at Highland Europe.In the second part of Fergal Mullen's interview, the co-founder and Partner of Highland Europe provides a pragmatic take on venture capital practices, addressing key industry dogmas.Mullen questions the bias against first-time entrepreneurs and talks about the importance of getting feedback from founders. He delves into the significance of geographical proximity, critiques the "Unicorn or Bust" mentality, and offers a practical approach to board meetings.In closing, he emphasizes the importance of aligning fund size with strategy, considering diverse market sizes, and recognizing the potential in hardware investments. *****Through our...
2024-02-1617 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalChallenging Dogmatic Narratives in Venture Capital, with Fergal Mullen, Co-Founder & Partner at Highland Europe.Fergal Mullen is a co-founder and Partner of Highland Europe focused on enterprise SaaS and consumer internet companies. He represents Highland Europe on the boards of GetYourGuide.com, AMCS, Nexthink, Bitmovin, Meditopia, Unibuddy, and Podimo. Highland Europe is currently investing from its 5th Fund which is just over €1B. In total, the firm manages approximately €3B. Until the formation of Highland Europe, Fergal was a General Partner with Highland Capital Partners. He launched the firm in Europe in 2007 and Co-Founded Highland Europe in 2011.*****Through our research, thought leadership, and annual prog...
2024-01-2619 minMike & Amit Talk TechMike & Amit talk 2024: Our predictions for the new yearFrom deepfakes to AI assistants, the technology of tomorrow may help or hinder the world depending on whose hands it's in. In the final episode of 2023, Mike and Amit discuss what to expect in the coming year, and give their predictions over how to prepare.*********Michael Wade is a Professor of Innovation and Strategy and Director of the IMD Global Center for Digital Business Transformation. He also holds the Cisco Chair in Digital Business Transformation. An expert in digital transformation, he has published 10 books and more than 100 case studies, as well as articles on...
2023-12-2129 min
Capital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalCapital Conversations: Olivier Laplace on the Technology Investment MarketIn episode one of Capital Conversations, Olivier Laplace, Managing Partner at VI Partners, discusses the evolving landscape of the technology investment market. Olivier Laplace explores the nature of the current crisis, drawing parallels to previous downturns and highlighting the unique features of the current situation. His advice to founders centers on building a robust business, conducting thorough due diligence on investors, and navigating the changing dynamics of talent acquisition and fundraising.Key points include the impact of a 2020 bubble on startup valuations, the transitional phase in 2021 marked by a decline in IPOs, and the...
2023-12-1217 minMike & Amit Talk TechGenerative AI: What comes next?The world has become familiar with artificial intelligence that can answer questions, often in a convincingly human manner. But so far, the technology has been limited by some key constraints. The first is that humans are still required to come up with the initial inputs, or 'prompts', to start conversations or processes. A second is that the relationship is bi-directional, interactions generally happen between a single human and an AI program.But that may soon change.In the not-too-distant future Amit and Mike expect seismic shifts in how generative AI will operate. Rather than working...
2023-12-0720 minMike & Amit Talk TechAI ethics and the future of big dataSince generative AI exploded into public consciousness, people and companies have been worrying about its ethics. But, says Amit Joshi, before considering rogue programs or the replacement of human thought, one must first consider the ABCs of AI ethics. Accuracy is the first big issue. How can one trust or disseminate the work of generative AI when it is so prone to hallucinating? Bias is a problem too. In a recent survey of image-generating AI models, when asked to produce a picture of a CEO, there was a 94% chance of a male i...
2023-11-2320 minMike & Amit Talk TechHow will Generative AI impact jobs and productivity?It's hard to argue that generative AI won't improve productivity in the long run. You only need to ask Chat GPT a few questions to understand how fast it can pull together disparate facts, help you structure a workday, or simply find you a recipe. Early studies are backing that up too. A recent review by Harvard University and Boston Consulting Group showed that consultants using large language models were around 25% quicker at completing tasks. But what might that mean for the global workforce? Some have already welcomed AI into the office, giving machines administrative ta...
2023-11-0921 minCapital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture CapitalCapital Conversations: Subscribe now for more from IMDCapital Conversations: Insights into the World of Venture Capital, is a podcast series produced by IMD and its Venture Asset Management Initiative. Subscribe for future episodes.To find out more about IMD visit imd.org For more information on IMD's Venture Asset Management Initiative click here
2023-10-3109 minMike & Amit Talk TechGenerative AI: Who will win the race for industry domination?Open AI, the company behind ChatGPT, is probably the most famous of the emerging artificial intelligence powerhouses. The firm is backed by Microsoft, a tech giant that hopes to dominate the world of generative AI. But several Silicon Valley titans like Google and Meta have other ideas.From Llama to Bard, AI-enabled chatbots and programs have been released at breakneck speed. The competition is heating up, and a range of new startups are joining the race.In this week's episode of Mike and Amit Talk Tech, our hosts discuss how the speed of c...
2023-10-1922 minMike & Amit Talk TechWhat makes AI today so much more advanced than its predecessors?In the first episode of Mike & Amit’s mini-series on artificial intelligence, our hosts discussed the birth of AlphaGo and the technological underpinnings of generative AI.But what makes ChatGPT different? Is there anything that fundamentally sets this latest generation of AIs apart from their predecessors?At heart, says Amit Joshi, generative AI is still based on probability. Based on a given input a machine will try to figure out what should come next, and programs based on neural networks and backpropagation were brilliant at solving problems where context was not important.But no...
2023-09-2920 minI by IMDThe Interview: Jay Mehta owner of the Mehta GroupJay Mehta, owner of the Metha Group, sits down with Misiek Piskorski Dean of IMD Asia and Oceania.--Read our new magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.
2023-09-2521 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Mate Rimac CEO of Rimac AutomobiliInspired by electrical engineer and inventor Nikola Tesla, Mate Rimac, CEO of the electric supercar company Rimac Automobili, is helping to drive a revolution in the automotive sector. He sits down for an interview with IMD's Didier Bonnet.-------Read our new magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.
2023-09-0829 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Judith Wiese, Chief People & Sustainability Officer at SiemensIMD's Julia Binder how Judith Wiese, Chief People & Sustainability Officer at Siemens, effectively combines two roles at the German technology and industrial group.-------Read our new magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.
2023-09-0622 min
The CEO DialogueMostafa Terrab, CEO and Chairman of the Board of OCPMostafa Terrab, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the Moroccan fertilizer group OCP, explains to IMD President Jean-François Manzoni how sincerity of intent helped him gain the trust of his people.-------Read our new magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.
2023-09-0656 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechNuclear power: How we learned to stop loving the atomNuclear power was once associated with a brighter future. The technology to extract energy from uranium was scalable, efficient, and billed as a source of cheap, clean power for generations to come.So why has the promise of an atomic age failed to materialize?Today there are around 440 nuclear power generation stations around the world, accounting for only 10% of the total power that we consume. In many parts of the world coal remains king, and countries like Germany are even phasing out plants, despite facing an expensive and lengthy road to net zero....
2023-08-3118 min
ManagementCast by IMDWhat will workplace wellbeing look like in the future? With Alysson MeisterDuring the last three episodes of ManagementCast, Alyson Meister has outlined some of the most pertinent topics in mental well-being today, including how to develop a positive stress mindset, what to do when designing a workplace, and why solving the recovery paradox is so important.This week, Meister is looking forward. Her research in the coming months will provide fresh new insights into the emerging trends in management, from the potential for psychedelics in the workplace to the effect of "overwhelm" on individuals and the mental construct of “should”. Through several research avenues, she is exploring how peop...
2023-08-2419 min
Mike & Amit Talk Tech3D printing dreams: Why the consumer technology of the future has floppedTen years ago, 3D printing was heralded as the answer to so many of life's problems. By now we were supposed to be using a 3D printer to print our food, our clothes, and even to build the house of our dreams. Some predicted that 3D printers would be as common as washing machines and that most middle-class households would be making their day-to-day essentials out of liquid silicone. The technology was even touted as a shortcut to making completely customizable artificial limbs at scale, and yet today, not only are these promises unfulfilled, but th...
2023-08-1718 min
ManagementCast by IMDHow to build a better workplace, with Alyson MeisterFull-time employees will spend an estimated 90,000 hours working, or around one-third of their adult life. It is no surprise, then, that workplace stress shapes our mental well-being, but just how much of a toll is it taking? The answer, it seems, is a lot. The latest Gallup polls show that nearly half of employees feel high levels of stress at work. In fact, workplace stress is at an all-time high. The personal cost of all this is huge, says Alyson Meister, but it's also just bad business. Meister warns that keeping employees on the edge of burnout s...
2023-08-1019 min
ManagementCast by IMDThe recovery paradox and why more work doesn't mean better results, with Alyson MeisterYou would never want your pilot, your surgeon, or your favorite athlete to go to work depleted and exhausted, so why do we expect this in the office? Somehow the business world has been won over by the assumption that you can just keep pushing; that you can drink a Red Bull and push harder or pull an all-nighter and stay at the office 24/7. For decades that has been the stamp of commitment and engagement while avoiding recovery was something to be celebrated. But this way of operating, says Alyson Meister, is d...
2023-07-2718 min
ManagementCast by IMDHow true leaders can build inclusive workplaces, with Misiek PiskorskiAs long as the locus of power in an organization lies outside of the LGBTQ+ community, allyship will play a central part in creating inclusive workplaces. But in 2023, says IMD professor Misiek Piskorski, it's no longer enough to be a positive role model. True leadership, is about creating allies around you. He argues that the privileged few need to advocate on behalf of others for equal recognition and the ability to advance in the organization regardless of who they are. This process can be fraught with problems, so for those in power, allyship today will require energy, t...
2023-06-2917 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechQuantum computing: The tech revolution that wasn'tFrom ChatGPT to Apple Vision Pro, the latest tech products garner a lot of hype. But while AI chatbots have the potential to change our relationship with the internet, and spatial computing could do the same to the world around us, these tech developments might also fizzle out. Hype does not always result in success in the long run.To understand why that is, we need to look at concepts that just never lived up to expectations, and quantum computing is a giant among them. In 2019 this was heralded as a possible game changer; a technology that...
2023-06-2214 min
ManagementCast by IMDAlexander Fleischmann on the evolution of LGBTQ+ researchManagementCast is back for its second season, and to kick off the series IMD is proud to present the first of several special episodes to celebrate Pride Month. The first is with Alexander Fleischmann, a research affiliate at IMD who has been writing about LGBTQ+ issues for more than 15 years. In that time, he has witnessed radical changes in how LGBTQ+ individuals are treated in the workplace and in the research he has engaged with throughout his career. In this in-depth interview, Fleischmann says business culture can be measured in how it d...
2023-06-0118 min
Mike & Amit Talk TechMoore's Law: Is the search for more processing power holding back tech?In 1965, the American engineer Gordon Moore came up with a novel idea: that the number of semiconductors that you could fit on a silicon chip would double exponentially. It was an idea that seemed revolutionary, perhaps even a little foolhardy. But it turned out to be true. Today, all modern technology, from autonomous cars to smartphones, is built on this massive increase in processing power. As the co-founder of the chipmaker Intel, Moore laid the foundations for much of the technology we know and rely on. Moore died earlier this year at the age of 94...
2023-05-0413 min
I by IMDACE Founders, with Ian Charles Stewart and Luckabox founder Aike Festini90% of startups fail. For all sorts of different reasons. And few people want to talk about it. But WiReD Magazine co-Founder and IMD Executive in Residence Ian Charles Stewart and Aike Festini, Founder and CEO of logistics startup Luckabox AG, are more than happy to.In our latest IMD ACE Founders Series podcast interview Stewart and Festini discuss what happens when things go wrong, how to spot the signs of an ailing business, and lessons that can be learned for next time. *****Aike Festini is a passionate, compassionate, and curious serial entrepreneur who h...
2023-04-1350 min
The CEO DialogueAntoine de Saint-AffriqueAntoine de Saint-Affrique is a man who doesn’t let himself, his employees, or his investors get too comfortable. Since becoming the CEO of French food and nutrition giant Danone in September 2021, the 58-year-old executive has delivered some uncomfortable truths. Saint-Afrique has clearly called out the company’s underperformance compared to peers while remaining confident that Danone is operating in the right categories and has what it takes to win. In conversation with IMD President Jean-Francois Manzoni, he talks about his quest for constant learning and renewal, and his drive to create room for budding talents to emer...
2023-03-3046 min
ManagementCast by IMDThe future of mega dive, with professor Cyril BouquetWhether in the boardroom or the classroom, business strategies will continue to emerge and evolve. As long as there are commercial opportunities to chase, there will be an incentive to improve. Some ideas, though, aren't limited to commercial applications; and IMD Professor Cyril Bouquet says his mega dive approach is one of them. In the words of the award-winning researcher, improvements in technology will only lead to greater returns on training: "Creating the future requires diversity of thought, and the capacity to combine views to create something new and interesting to tackle complex problems in t...
2023-01-0516 min
ManagementCast by IMDWhy training matters, with professor Cyril BouquetTraining is central to long-term business success. But how can companies justify investing in the future when the present is so costly?The answer, says IMD Professor Cyril Bouquet, lies in the data: "All the empirical evidence suggests that companies that do invest in training and executive development, that invest in innovation, in general, come out of a crisis much stronger than those who just worry about the immediate situation.""You should ask yourself, how can I help my people to unlock the keys to the future" As a Professor of Strategy and...
2022-12-2212 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Sarena LinIn this episode of IMD's "The Interview" podcast, Sarena Lin, Chief Transformation & Talent Officer at Bayer, speaks with IMD's Professor Misiek Piskorski about digital transformation and leadership.Bayer is a global enterprise specializing in a range of life sciences fields including pharmaceuticals, consumer health, and crop management. Sarena Lin has been a member of its Board since 2021 and, as CTTO, she is responsible for human resources, strategy, and business consulting. Lin is also the Labor Director of Bayer AG.Mikołaj Jan Piskorski, also known as Misiek Piskorski, is Professor of Digital Strategy, Analytics, and I...
2022-12-0632 min
ManagementCast by IMDHow to mega dive, with professor Cyril BouquetIn his first appearance on ManagementCast, IMD Professor Cyril Bouquet described his mega dive approach; and the reasons why this is one the best ways to open up an inter-departmental collaboration within large organizations. But what do businesses actually need to launch a "mega dive" themselves?Bouquet says that "there are a few key factors that need to be in place," but advises that "the first one is the commitment of the top management team". Without executive buy-in, the process won't work. With it, he says, ownership and belief in the system will follow.
2022-11-2415 min
The CEO DialogueJean-Pascal TricoireFor Schneider Electric, making a difference centers on bringing technology and expertise to best manage energy – specifically sustainably produced electricity. After 16 years in charge of the French multinational – seven as CEO and a further nine as Chairman – Jean-Pascal Tricoire has clear views on what keeps him motivated. “You have to be very stubborn strategically and very agile tactically,” says Tricoire, in the latest edition of IMD’s CEO Dialogue “If you have your goal post in place, always pulling you some years ahead, then what’s important is to have your mindset on the next two steps – because that’s what...
2022-11-1852 min
ManagementCast by IMDThe mega dive, with professor Cyril BouquetAt IMD, Professor Cyril Bouquet has pioneered the 'mega dive,' a management approach that brings together large groups of people as one united force. A force capable of embracing the future together.But what does that mean in practice?Bouquet says that 'mega dive' isn't just an event, it's a six-month journey that spans digital and in-person conversations. It can involve hundreds of people, in dozens of teams, and it always generates conversation between those who normally wouldn't have the opportunity to debate their views. In Episode 17 of...
2022-11-1014 min
ManagementCast by IMDThe future of power, with professor Jennifer JordanFifteen years ago, the concept of a social media influencer was in its infancy, but today these communicators shape global conversations on everything from retail to politics. Is that what evolution looks like?IMD professor Jennifer Jordan says "no". In her words, evolution implies a positive change, and power doesn't evolve, it transforms. To stay ahead of the curve, executives need to keep an eye on power trends and work on their own approach through feedback assessments and coaching. In Episode 16 of ManagementCast, Jordan discusses the future of influence and what to expect from the n...
2022-10-2713 min
ManagementCast by IMDThe problem with power, professor Jennifer JordanThe proverbial saying, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely,” suggests that as a person’s influence increases, their moral sense diminishes. But how does that square with today’s business world?IMD Professor Jennifer Jordan says it’s more complex than that. Power is the engine that drives decision-making, but it also acts as a magnifying glass, exacerbating positive or negative tendencies that are already there. Power can also be transformative – which, says Jordan, is something to look out for. In Episode 15 of ManagementCast, she describes the problems and pitfalls of power, and how the modern ex...
2022-10-1313 min
ManagementCast by IMDBuilding your power base, with IMD professor Jennifer JordanBuilding your power base can be a tricky business. Do you pursue power alone, or look for allies to help you? And is there an approach that works in every business environment?Unfortunately, there isn't, says IMD professor Jennifer Jordan. Power is all about context. In Episode 14 of ManagementCast, Jordan describes how listeners can approach power strategically and describes the way a "power audit" can improve outcomes in the boardroom.Jennifer Jordan is a social psychologist and a digital transformation expert. Her work has appeared in numerous scientific journals and in 2019 she was named by...
2022-09-2913 min
The CEO DialogueJan JenischJan Jenisch, CEO of Holcim, discusses with IMD President Jean-François Manzoni the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships with all stakeholders…In the five years since taking the helm at Holcim, Jenisch has overseen a complex acquisition, creating a company with 70,000 employees and net sales of nearly CHF 30 billion.Jenisch explores the responsibility and opportunity the 110-year-old Swiss-based global leader in innovative building solutions faces in its charge towards sustainable transformation in the building industry; as well as the macro and industry environments of different markets and how these play out in Holcim’s ope...
2022-09-2342 min
ManagementCast by IMDIn pursuit of power, with IMD professor Jennifer JordanSome say power is what drives boardrooms. Or that it's what makes decisions, and shapes organizations.But what is power really? Is it control over social and physical resources? Or is it simply the ability to do what you want when you want?IMD professor, Jennifer Jordan, says it is all those things and more. In Episode 13 of ManagementCast, she calls it the "unspoken currency" in any group or organization. It's what makes things happen.As a social psychologist and a digital transformation expert, Jordan should know. Her work has appeared in numerous...
2022-09-1516 min
ManagementCast by IMDCybersecurity for tomorrow, with IMD professor Oyku IsikPhishing and ransomware are some of the biggest online threats of today; but what will businesses face tomorrow?IMD professor, Oyku Isik, says that in the future, the global digital security landscape may look very different. That means out with passwords, and in with biometrics. A future in which low-tech spam is replaced with AI-generated emails, meticulously crafted to glean your personal data.As an IMD professor, of Cybersecurity, Işık helps businesses tackle data privacy and digital ethics challenges. Based at the campus in Lausanne, she has been named on the Thinkers50 Radar 2022 list of...
2022-09-0123 min
The CEO DialogueHåkan AgnevallAs the chief executive of Wärtsilä, one of the world’s leading power technology and services providers for the maritime and energy industries, Håkan Agnevall has called on governments and companies to speed up decarbonization in these two sectors that account for roughly a third of the world’s carbon emissions.Agnevall himself joined Wärtsilä as CEO in February 2021 from Volvo Buses, a subsidiary of the Swedish commercial vehicle maker where he was president for eight years. He took the helm at Wärtsilä at a unique time for the group, with a tough market situ...
2022-08-2526 min
ManagementCast by IMDBuilding your cybersecurity team, with IMD professor Oyku IsikWhat are the roadblocks to dealing with a ransomware attack? And how can you find a digital partner to help you deal with this?IMD professor, Oyku Isik, says the key is trust. In Episode 11 of ManagementCast, she discusses how to build resilience into a digital business strategy, and the way CEOs should grow their cyber-security team.As an IMD professor, Işık helps businesses tackle cybersecurity, data privacy, and digital ethics challenges. Based at the campus in Lausanne, she has been named on the Thinkers50 Radar 2022 list of up-and-coming global thought leaders.
2022-08-1820 min
ManagementCast by IMDHow to navigate your digital transformation, with IMD professor Oyku IsikÖykü Işık, Professor of Digital Strategy and Cybersecurity at IMD, says the modern CEO needs to know how to protect their businesses on-and-offline. But how?In Episode 10 of Managementcast Isik discusses how to build digital resilience into business strategy, and why all executives should be concerned about data security.As an IMD professor, Işık helps businesses to tackle cybersecurity, data privacy, and digital ethics challenges. Based at the campus in Lausanne, she has been named on the Thinkers50 Radar 2022 list of up-and-coming global thought leaders.
2022-08-0421 min
The CEO DialogueJessica TanFounded in 1988, Ping An has built itself into Asia’s largest insurance company, selling US$110 billion of insurance premiums last year.But while Ping An made its name in insurance, the company has also established itself as one of China’s leading digital innovators; and the key figure driving some of its cutting-edge technologies is Jessica Tan.As one of Ping An’s three co-CEOs Tan is helping the company go from strength to strength, especially in the areas of fintech and artificial intelligence. In conversation with IMD President Jean-Francois Manzoni, Tan talks about growth, change...
2022-07-1454 min
ManagementCast by IMDWhere is AI headed? with professor Amit JoshiDealing with artificial intelligence can be tricky. It's a technology that's moving fast and throwing up practical, economic, and ethical questions for workforces across the globe.Do executives need to know what's next for AI? Or, where it will take us in the next ten, twenty or one-hundred years? And does it really matter if AI eventually makes humans obsolete?IMD professor Amit Joshi, says CEOs need to be thinking about these questions before AI changes their industries. As a Professor of AI, Analytics, and Marketing Strategy Joshi has helped the world's top b...
2022-07-0717 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Zoe Chance"Influence doesn’t work the way you think, because you don’t think the way you think." So says Zoe Chance in her latest book, Influence Is Your Superpower. As a Professor at the Yale School of Management, Chance is an expert in behavioral economics, and her framework for behavior change is the foundation for Google’s global food policy. In conversation with IMD Professor of Strategy and Political Economy David Bach, Chance discusses her book and how executives can cultivate charisma, negotiate comfortably and spot manipulators before it’s too late. As well as the impo...
2022-06-3027 min
ManagementCast by IMDInput is everything in AI, with Professor Amit JoshiWhile Artificial Intelligence has already revolutionized many businesses, it also has the potential to bring companies to their knees. When it comes to AI, you're only as good as your data. Or as IMD's Amit Joshi would say: "Garbage in equals garbage out." As a Professor of AI, Analytics, and Marketing Strategy at IMD, Joshi has helped companies successfully implement digital strategies. In this episode of ManagementCast, the award-winning researcher discusses how firms can avoid the pitfalls of rolling out Artificial Intelligence.Read our new magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IM...
2022-06-2316 minThe CEO DialogueJulie SweetLess than six months after Julie Sweet was named Global CEO of Accenture, COVID-19 hit.For some businesses, the pandemic marked a breaking point; but Accenture was ready to ride it out. Sweet says the company has been preparing for a rapid change to working life for a decade, and that as far back as 2013 the company was declaring that “every business is a digital business”.Julie Sweet has been instrumental in guiding the company through turbulent times and has made huge strides since taking over global operations at Accenture. In conversation with IMD president Jean...
2022-06-1630 min
ManagementCast by IMDHow to bring AI into your business, with Professor Amit JoshiSome think of Artificial Intelligence as a futuristic concept – used only by the firms of tomorrow and developed by tech giants like Google or Amazon. But this technology isn’t the preserve of Silicon Valley. A range of industries are implementing AI to get ahead. From banks and fintech companies to pharma, automotive and telecoms firms, it has become an integral part of business in 2022.So how can executives make AI work for them today?As Professor of AI, Analytics, and Marketing Strategy at IMD, Amit Joshi has helped companies figure this out. In th...
2022-06-0917 min
ManagementCast by IMDWhat does AI mean for management? with Professor Amit JoshiArtificial Intelligence, or AI, can be a divisive topic. For some, it simply represents the next stage of the digital age; the golden technological era of tomorrow. Others worry about a very different future and the potential destruction of the entire human race.But which of these visions is likely to win out? And for that matter, what is AI really? How is it distinct from machine-learning, big data, and the other tech terms?Amit Joshi, Professor of AI, Analytics, and Marketing Strategy at IMD, is asked these questions daily. As an award-winning professor and...
2022-05-2616 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Kristina Walcker-Mayer***This podcast interview was recorded in 2021***As competition in the retail banking space increases and consumers demand more services, new players are entering the market and disrupting our relationships with our wealth. One of these companies is German challenger bank Nuri. Led by CEO Kristina Walcker-Mayer, Nuri offers an on-ramp to crypto investment and wealth management tools directly from your phone. Walcker-Mayer previously worked as a product lead at N26 and also spent several years at Zalando in the loyalty and mobile apps team. In conversation with Ian Stewart, she...
2022-05-1928 min
ManagementCast by IMDThe future of Customer-Centricity, with Professor Sean MeehanMany companies disrupting legacy industries today have put customers at the center of their business models. Firms like Uber, Deliveroo and Airbnb are all built on customer-centric insights. But what does the future of customer-centricity look like? In this episode, Seán Meehan, Dean of Faculty and Professor of Marketing and Strategy at IMD, explores the degree to which customer data will become ever more important, and how a greater focus on analysis may be the key to success. How will companies win out in the years to come? As the author of t...
2022-05-1216 minManagementCast by IMDThe origins of customer-centricity, with Professor Sean MeehanIn this inaugural episode, JohnJo Devlin is joined by Sean Meehan, the Martin Hilti Professor of marketing and management and Dean of Faculty at IMD. Professor Meehan is the author of multiple books on Customer Centricity; an often misunderstood concept that he explains in his first conversation with ManagementCast.Read our new magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leadership programmes here.Host: JohnJo DevlinGuest: Professor Sean MeehanProduced by: JohnJo Devlin Editing: Max Bower
2022-03-3118 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Nicholas ChristakisOnce named amongst Time magazine’s 100 most influential people, Nicholas Christakis is now the director of Yale’s Human Nature Lab; a position that puts his diverse range of skills to good use.With expertise in several fields including sociology, ecology, medicine, and evolutionary biology, the Sterling Professor of Social and Natural Science has a track record of groundbreaking research.In this interview, Christakis discusses his latest book, Apollo’s Arrow, with IMD Affiliate Professor of Leadership, Katharina Lange. Highlights include the profound and enduring impact of coronavirus, and what we can learn from plagues of the...
2022-03-2423 min
I by IMDThe Interview: Peter BakkerWhen Peter Bakker joined World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) a decade ago, the conversation on climate change was very different. Back in 2012, he says, companies were still grappling with the 'why' of environmental issues, rather than the 'how'.Fast-forward 10 years and the business landscape has been transformed, the WBCSD President & CEO said. Today more than ever, sustainability is a central issue for growing companies.By developing tools to help leading businesses tackle climate, WBCSD has been working to build a more balanced world. Made up of more than 200 members, this CEO-led community is...
2022-02-0320 min
The CEO DialogueTakeshi NiinamiTakeshi Niinami became President and CEO of Suntory Holdings just over seven years ago, in October 2014. His task: to help the company manage the biggest event of its 120-year history – its purchase of the US’s Beam Inc, maker of Jim Beam and a host of other spirits, for US$16 billion.In conversation with IMD president Jean-Francois Manzoni, he discusses why CEOs need to embody their company values, the challenges of multi-billion dollar acquisitions, and the importance of the Suntory Founder's Spirit.—————————Read our new magazine, I by IMD, here.Discover IMD's leaders...
2022-01-2726 minThe CEO DialogueRiad SherifRiad Sherif is truly an expert in his field. Trained as a doctor, his drive to succeed in business led him to pharmaceuticals; and a successful 25-year career at corporate giants like Sanofi and Novartis. After reaching the top of the pharmaceutical industry, he joined the start-up Oculis in 2017. And as IMD President Jean-François Manzoni discovers, that move has paid off. As CEO, Riad has steered the biotech company to financial and regulatory success. But the best days may yet be to come. In May, Oculis secured a $57 million financing round and is now pois...
2021-11-2530 min
The CEO DialogueAntje KanngiesserIn a rapidly decarbonizing world, the energy sector is facing immense challenges. The 'net-zero' promises of today lead to demands for greener more efficient grids tomorrow, and some are struggling to keep up with the times.Others, like Antje Kanngiesser, are flourishing. As a young lawyer in Germany, she specialized in renewables long before they hit global headlines. Now, following a successful career in the energy sector, she's emerged as CEO at Alpiq, a company that delivers about 20% of Switzerland’s power.Like many energy companies, Alpiq is rethinking its business model, and in...
2021-11-1025 min
The CEO DialogueGilbert AchermannAs the Chairman of Straumann Group, IMD EMBA graduate Gilbert Acherman knows the essential value of strong corporate leadership.Having joined the global dentistry powerhouse in 1998, he served first as CFO and then as CEO before joining the board in 2009 and becoming chairman a year later. Now with more than a decade under his belt in this position, Achermann is one of a select few people to maintain such a longstanding record. The average length of chairmanship in any industry is typically four-and-a-half years. This week, he tells IMD President Jean-François Manzoni how he's kep...
2021-10-2831 min
I by IMDShould I Fly: AirlinesTo hear your views aired on Should I Fly, please fill out our short survey:https://imd.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cZ3MoMg51bvCLWK From passengers to investors, there's not much love lost for Airlines. But why? Airlines provide us with the opportunity to easily, and cheaply see the world. They give us the ability to broaden our minds, reunite us with distant family members and facilitate the modern world of work. Now there is the real risk of losing what connects us, as the financial effects of COVID-19 c...
2021-10-0733 min
The CEO DialogueStefan LarssonWhether you live in London, Stockholm, or Seattle, there’s a good chance that Stefan Larsson has had something to do with your wardrobe.As the recently appointed CEO of PVH Corp. he oversees an impressive catalog of brands, including Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein. And now he has his sights set on revolutionizing sustainability in the fashion worldIn an interview with IMD President Jean-François Manzoni, Stefan opens up about his analytical fact-based approach to business, and what the future holds for the world’s most successful fashion brands.—————————Links:Read...
2021-09-3033 min
The CEO DialogueSeverin DressenBusiness is full of animal metaphors: bull markets, cash cows, and fat cats abound. But for IMD alumni Severin Dressen, the natural world is a far more literal part of his day-to-day work.As the CEO of Zurich Zoo, he's taking a proactive role in tackling the worldwide loss of biodiversity. Since the Zoo reopened, visitors have flocked in, and Severin says that it's his responsibility to educate others about the importance of sustainability; whether that be through elephant conservation projects in Thailand, or in Zürichberg itself.In an interview with IMD Professor David B...
2021-09-1625 minThe CEO DialogueSøren SkouAs one of the most influential and enduring figures in international shipping, Søren Skou has weathered his fair share of crises. But is almost 40 years at Maersk, perhaps no period has been more challenging than the coronavirus pandemic.As the CEO of A.P. Moller-Maersk, and a graduate of the IMD business school, Søren has gained unique insights into global trade. This week, he tells IMD President Jean-François Manzoni about the future of international commerce and how he's keeping up with changing customer demands.Highlights of their conversation include some tips on rem...
2021-08-1924 minThe CEO DialoguePascal SoriotPascal Soriot has been described as the hottest CEO in Pharma. After almost a decade at the helm of AstraZeneca, the company has seen a remarkable turnaround - battling falling sales to become one of the most valuable companies on the FTSE 100.For many, the drugmaker is synonymous with its coronavirus vaccine, but the source of Astrazeneca’s success traces back long before the pandemic. This week, Pascal Soriot tells IMD President Jean-François Manzoni about the future of the pharmaceuticals industry and the need to build a greener and more sustainable world.
2021-08-0524 minThe CEO DialogueMark SchneiderMark Schneider is arguably the most powerful man in the food and beverage industry. As CEO of Nestlé, he oversees the biggest company in the sector - with 270,000 employees, a $350bn market cap, and a gigantic portfolio of brands that includes everything from Perrier to Purina.It would be simple to keep things moving in the same direction. But, as the softly-spoken German-American reveals to IMD President Jean-François Manzoni, the company is approaching a once-in-a-generation moment of change.Among key takeaways in this episode, discover why Schneider thinks re...
2021-07-0831 minI by IMDIMD's World Talent Ranking 2019 with Prof. Arturo BrisThe IMD World Talent Ranking evaluates the capability of 63 economies in developing, attracting and retaining talent - key factors for competitiveness. Professor Arturo Bris, Director of IMD's World Competitiveness Center discusses how to create the right environment to develop, attract and retain a skilled workforce in a rapidly changing world.
2019-11-1834 minI by IMDWhere the Wild Things Were by IMD Affiliate Professor Susan Goldsworthy and Sydney GoldsworthyWhere the Wild Things Were by IMD Affiliate Professor Susan Goldsworthy and Sydney Goldsworthy Do we really want the acceleration of the extinction of all wild creatures to be our legacy to future generations?That’s the question at the heart of a creative new book by IMD faculty member Susan Goldsworthy.Informed by her work with senior executives who are being influenced by their children and grandchildren on the urgency of the planetary challenges we face, Susan has released an illustrated story book to generate dialogue and inspire action. De...
2019-10-0722 min