In Good Company with Nicolai Tangen

Angela Duckworth joins the discussion as a world-leading expert on grit, offering insights into how passion and perseverance shape success. She delves into how grit can be measured and cultivated, emphasizing the critical role of organizational culture. Parenting styles and their effects on children's resilience are examined, alongside the rising mental health challenges faced by adolescents in the social media age. Duckworth also shares how adversity can foster character development while highlighting the importance of a supportive environment for nurturing resilience.

Ilham Kadri, CEO of Solvay, shares her inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Casablanca to leading a global chemical company. She emphasizes the importance of empathy in leadership, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Kadri discusses the crucial role of education and emotional intelligence in fostering innovation and sustainability in the chemical industry. She also provides valuable advice for young professionals on finding their purpose and embracing individuality in their careers.

Jochen Zeitz, CEO of Harley-Davidson and former CEO of Puma, dives into electrification and sustainability in the motorcycle industry. He reflects on leadership transitions and the significance of employee stock ownership. Zeitz shares his passion for Africa and its culture while discussing the challenges of the motorcycle market, including supply chain issues. Additionally, he tackles the contentious topic of executive compensation and its impact on corporate governance, all while revealing his favorite motorcycle riding spot.

Jean-Jacques Guiony, CFO of LVMH, shares fascinating insights into the world of luxury goods. He discusses the emotional motivations behind luxury purchases, emphasizing how social status plays a significant role. Guiony also dives into the complexities of mergers and acquisitions in the sector, using the Tiffany case as a reference. Additionally, he highlights potential expansion opportunities for brands in wine and skincare, while addressing the importance of open communication in corporate culture. Don't miss his take on the unique dynamics of luxury family businesses!

Stephane Bancel, CEO of Moderna and a key player in the biotech field, shares insights from his experience in navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the ethical dilemmas in vaccine development and the importance of diversity in clinical trials. Notably, he reveals innovative hiring practices that emerged during the crisis and the challenges of embracing digital transformation in the pharmaceutical industry. Bancel also reflects on the critical need for public-private partnerships to advance vaccine technology and ensure equitable access.

Nicolas Hieronimus, CEO of L'Oréal, shares insights on the evolving beauty industry. He discusses the blend of art and science in innovation and how it shapes consumer desires. Hieronimus highlights beauty's positive impact on self-esteem and the company's commitment to sustainability. He addresses trends like the growing acceptance of men's beauty products and the role of social media. Finally, he navigates the complexities of leadership amid geopolitical challenges, emphasizing the values of diversity and meritocracy in the beauty sector.

Henrik Ehrnrooth, CEO of Kone, shares insights from leading a global innovator in the elevator and escalator industry. He discusses the Finnish concept of 'SISU,' emphasizing resilience as key to Kone's success. The conversation dives into navigating the complexities of the Chinese market and how local leadership shapes strategy. Ehrnrooth also reflects on his career transition from Goldman Sachs, stressing the importance of culture and teamwork, and reveals fascinating stories from the elevator world.

In this conversation, Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors, shares her journey from engineer to top executive. She discusses the auto industry's transformation, emphasizing the shift towards electric vehicles and carbon neutrality. Barra also highlights the importance of talent management and inclusivity in leadership. Listeners gain insights into the strategic challenges of leading a major organization, and Barra offers impactful career advice, urging young professionals to discover their passion and confidently make their voices heard.

In this conversation, David M. Solomon, the CEO of Goldman Sachs, shares his insights on leadership and the dynamics of the financial services industry. He emphasizes the importance of speed in client service and discusses his busy executive routine. Solomon highlights the value of authentic leadership and navigating challenges in today’s capital markets. He also explores the vital role of people as core assets in an organization, contrasting this with a reliance on technology and capital. Aspiring CEOs can learn from his experiences and advice on patience and resilience.

Bernard Looney, CEO of BP, has a wealth of experience in energy, having spent over 30 years at the company. He shares insights on BP’s ambitious transition from an oil giant to an integrated energy provider, emphasizing the need for long-term dedication amidst climate change challenges. Looney reflects on his upbringing and the importance of resilience, while discussing how crises can shape leadership. He advocates for empathy in the workplace, stressing the necessity for transparency and diversity to build trust and drive innovation.