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The Heidrick & Struggles Leadership Podcast
Core leadership competencies needed in today's business landscape: A conversation with Mitja Schulz, CEO of Debrunner Koenig
In this interview, Mitja Schulz, the newly appointed CEO of Debrunner Koenig, a Swiss wholesale company specializing in reinforcements, steel and metals, metal services, and technical products, describes his leadership style and shares the core leadership competencies he believes are essential for steering his organization through today's dynamic business landscape that places increasing demands on CEOs. He also discusses how he thinks about developing leaders who excel in collaboration, staying agile, and being goal oriented; strategies he has implemented to develop these competencies within his leadership teams; and some common challenges that arise when building high‑performing teams. Looking into the future, he also shares how he thinks digital tools and AI will shape the future of leadership development, and how he is preparing his teams and wider workforce to adapt to these changes.
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15:25|Kaleen Love shares how clear values, behavioral expectations, and a united mission build a culture that attracts resilient leaders and accelerates talent growth.Driving organizational transformation in family-owned businesses: A conversation with Björn Lahm, CFO of Harting Technology Group
19:14|Björn Lahm shares how he maintains culture and alignment of goals and values within a family-owned business.How culture drives performance and transforms leadership: A Conversation with Allan Swan, President of Panasonic Energy North America
34:45|Allan Swan shares how understanding the value of culture allow leaders to drive performance and innovation and make strategic transformations.The generics mindset: A conversation with Richard Saynor, CEO of Sandoz
28:41|Richard Saynor reflects on what it takes for leaders to combine accountability, clear decision-making, and the humility to change course.Culture as a strategic advantage in times of change: A conversation with Ken Campbell, CEO of Play Group
20:00|Ken Campbell shares how a strong culture and fast adaptation keep people motivated through clarity, focus, and a challenger mindset.Tradition and transformation: A conversation with Riitta Savonlahti, executive vice president of human resources, UPM
20:51|Riitta Savonlahti outlines a practical playbook for aligning culture with long-term strategy through trust, clear accountability, matrix leadership.What great leaders learn from flawed leadership: A conversation with author Mita Mallick
16:18|Mita Mallick shares how experiences with poor leadership shaped her view on how great leaders can coach, not control, and lead with empathy and clarity.Leading Transformation in the Space Industry: A conversation with Kristina Wagner, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Digital Officer at OHB SE
17:12|Kristina Wagner discusses scaling change, growing next gen leaders, and bold career advice for women in STEM.