Global Business Leaders Conferences

About the GBLC

The Global Business Leaders Conference (GBLC) is the School's flagship event and part of a series of high level academic and business conferences held around the globe. An intense half-day session, the Conference is a platform for high level leaders from business, academia, politics and the media to get together in a dynamic setting with an opportunity for thought-provoking discussions and networking.

The aim of these events is to provide unique insights about the opportunities and challenges that face companies operating in various regions of the world, as well as to explore how economic and political institutions can improve their regions’ global competitiveness and progress.

Since the Conferences’ inception in 2011, delegates from across the regions have engaged in open dialogues and interactive sessions with INSEAD faculty and experts. INSEAD has never shied away from challenging yet topical questions such as:

“Is Europe still relevant?”
“Business climate in the UAE & GCC: weathering the storm”
“What is the future of European economy and business?”
“Is Europe’s entrepreneurial ecosystem broken?”
“Developing leadership talent in an era of transformation”
“Building economic diversification & capability development in Abu Dhabi”
"Creating sustainable business value"

Corporate governance in uncertain times

24 October 2016

Governance is increasingly seen as a necessity for a more balanced and effective world. The topic has been in the limelight starting with the major corporate scandals in the 2000-10 decade and with the 2007-8 US financial crisis, then followed by a real estate crisis, an economic crisis, a Euro crisis, and now a China crisis that may still be growing. Governance presents challenges at different levels, from the corporate to the supra-national level, with complex interactions. And although the word has entered the public and business vocabularies, better governance practices remain elusive, or too specific to particular companies, boards, and regions. This is in contrast with business management and leadership, where a more global practice has evolved and there's an acceptance of the global nature of the debate, albeit with cultural variants.

While the quality of governance practices in today’s world remains very sector-specific and region-specific, there is a universality to good governance practices. We will start with a discussion of the major changes in corporate governance in the global economy, and then move to the regional context. We will explore whether change in governance is occurring, and whether it is happening at the right speed and in the right direction. What is working well in the regional change agenda? Within the turbulent context of today, what bottlenecks remain, and what might be real opportunities and justified expectations for a positive contribution to sustainable growth?

Master of Ceremony Migeul Sousa Lobo, Director of the Middle East Campus in Abu Dhabi, Associate Professor of Decision Sciences, INSEAD
Welcome (Video) Ilian Mihov, Dean, Professor of Economics, The Rausing Chaired Professor of Economic and Business Transformation, INSEAD
Opening Remarks (Video) H.E. Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Member of the Executive Council
Good Public Governance Efforst in the UAE (Video) H.E. Dr. Ali Rashid Al Noaimi, Director General, Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) and Vice Chancellor, UAE University
The Changing Face of Corporate Governance in the World (Video) There is no question that the word governance has now widely entered the government and business vocabulary. This session reviews the main changes in governance around the world, aiming to answer the basic question: is governance around the world improving, where in particular, and how so? What are the expectations might one hold about governance going forward? Mahmood H. Alkooheji, Chief Executive Officer, Mumtalakat Pekka Hietala, Professor of Finance, Chair, Finance Area, INSEAD Mishal Hamed Kanoo, Chairman, The Kanoo Group Ludo Van der Heyden, Academic Director, INSEAD Corporate Governance Initiative, The INSEAD Chaired Professor of Corporate Governance, INSEAD Dr. Adnan Soufi, Founder, DAS Partners and Former Commissioner, Capital Market Authority
Public Governance: The World Bank Report on Privilege-Resistant Policy Making (Video) In this session the World Bank presents its latest report on whether conditions in the region are created that will allow the private sector to contribute to sustainable economic growth and take over from what is disproportionately public-led growth. Syed Akhtar Mahmood, Lead Private Sector Specialist, Trade & Competitiveness Global Practice, World Bank Group Moderator: Ilian Mihov, Dean, Professor of Economics, The Rausing Chaired Professor of Economic and Business Transformation, INSEAD
Corporate Governance in the Middle East: Real Change or Lip Service? (Video) This panel will explore the issue of whether governance change in the Region will occur, what needs to change and what remaining issues need to be solved for governance to contribute to a sustainable growth scenario for the region. Panel Discussion H.E. Saeed Mubarak Al-Hajeri, Chairman, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA) H.E. Fatima Al Jaber, Board Member, Al Jaber Group Majid H. Jafar, Chief Executive Officer, Crescent Petroleum Syed Akhtar Mahmood, Lead Private Sector Specialist, Trade & Competitiveness Global Practice, World Bank Group Osman Sultan, Chief Executive Officer, Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company PJSC - du Moderator: Ludo Van der Heyden, Academic Director, INSEAD Corporate Governance Initiative, The INSEAD Chaired Professor of Corporate Governance, INSEAD
Closing Remarks (Video) The Importance of Leadership, Institutions and Education Ilian Mihov, Dean, Professor of Economics, The Rausing Chaired Professor of Economic and Business Transformation, INSEAD

Europe: what works!

10 November 2015

A growing and productive Europe can be an engine for the world economy, and an inspiration for global citizens. But how will Europe rise to the challenge?

Its traditional values – social mobility, strong education, productive cooperation between management and labor, creativity and openness to innovation – can serve as the pillars to build a more productive Europe. A Europe that works!

Welcome (Video) Andreas Jacobs, MBA'90D, Chairman of INSEAD Ilian Mihov, Dean, INSEAD Peter Zemsky, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, INSEAD (Master of Ceremony)
Leadership in the 21st century (Video) Gilbert Ghostine, CEO, Firmenich SA Moderator: Ilian Mihov, Dean, INSEAD
Business Model Innovation as a European Growth Engine (Video) & (Slides) When most companies think of innovation, they focus on developing new technology or products - a process that is typically relegated to separate research and development departments where dozens of very expensive, highly qualified engineers rule. Many European countries pride themselves in engineering traditions and they strive to create new technologies to push the boundaries of what is possible. These efforts are often supported by governments which encourage investments in R&D. However this is an expensive and risky way to innovate: R&D budgets in some industries go as high as 30 per cent of sales, despite elusive returns. Is this the best way for European companies to compete globally? Serguei Netessine, The Timken Chaired Professor of Global Technology and Innovation, discusses an alternative approach to innovation which some European companies have proven successful.
The Emergence of a European Champion: An INSEAD Case Study in Digital Disruption (Video) Frédéric Mazzella, MBA'07D, Founder and CEO, BlaBlaCar Peter Zemsky, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, INSEAD (Slides)
CEO roundtable: New business models for the old Europe (Video) Silicon Valley is leading the world on just about any metric of innovation by startups be it total funding or the number of billion dollar valuations or IPOs. Large and active startup ecosystems have been recently created and are flourishing in China, India and South East Asia, countries with large populations and fast growing emerging markets. Hence, the participants in the roundtable will be invited to discuss questions like the following: Can Europe offer something special when it comes to startups? What unique European features should entrepreneurs leverage (and what did your startup leverage)? What business models work here and why would entrepreneurs want to focus on Europe? Is entrepreneurship landscape the same in Europe and elsewhere or do you observe some verticals that have more potential? Do funding opportunities differ in Europe? Many startups now aspire to be global. Should one start in Europe and expand elsewhere or vice versa? Why? Paul Ettinger, MBA'85J, Co-founder, Caffè Nero, Chairman, Streetlife.com Frédéric Mazzella, MBA'07D, Founder and CEO, BlaBlaCar Jean-Manuel Rozan, Co-founder and Chairman, Qwant (Slides) Marina Tognetti, MBA'92J, Founder & CEO, mYngle Moderator: Peter Zemsky, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, INSEAD
High-Performance Organisational Practices: Lessons from the Mittelstand (Video) & (Slides) Research has found large and persistent differences in productivity and performance even among seemingly similar enterprises. Those differences are partially explained by the use of organisational practices, such as long-term orientation, continuous improvement, global perspective, and highly motivated, empowered and flexible employees. Although these high-performance organisational practices are not unique to Europe, they are very well represented among the Mittelstand companies in the heart of Europe. What are the conditions that have allowed the emergence of such globally competitive organisations? What are the lessons for other part of Europe, and beyond? Javier Gimeno, Aon Dirk Verbeek Chaired Professor in International Risk and Strategic Management; Academic Director, INSEAD European Competitiveness Initiative
CEO Roundtable (Video) Cornelius Alexander Grupp, MBA'77, Chairman & CEO,CAG Holding GmbH Georg Kapsch, YMP'89Oct, CEO, Kapsch AG F. Peter Mitterbauer, MBA'06J, Chairman & CEO, Miba AG Wolfram Senger-Weiss, MBA'02D, Managing Director,Gebrüder Weiss GmbH Moderator: Stefan Szyszkowitz, Member of the Executive Board, EVN
What works (and what does not) when competition for talent becomes global? Some key learnings from GTCI (Video) & (Slides) Since 2013, INSEAD has published its Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI), which ranks over 100 countries in terms of their respective ability to grow, attract and retain talent. Recent debates about migrations, robotisation, and growing 'uberisation' of the service economy have urged decision makers (public and private) to take a different look at labour market flexibility, but also at education and training. Europe is still facing massive unemployment (especially among its young citizens) as well as significant skills gaps. How can the experience of European leaders help European economies to face such challenges? How can GTCI data help identify what has worked and what has not? Bruno Lanvin, Executive Director for Global Indices, INSEAD
Reflections: What Works (Video) Panel discussion “Without action, the world would still be an idea” – the words of General Doriot are a reminder to move beyond debate towards immediate actions that can improve competitiveness in Europe. Whether these are initiated by companies, governments or the education sector, collaboration will be required to help Europe emerge from the current crisis. To identify the priorities and inspire participants, the closing panel will discuss the three perspectives of business, public institutions and academia. Ilian Mihov, Dean, INSEAD Vivienne Cox, MBA'89D, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Vallourec SA Karien van Gennip, MBA'95D, CEO, ING Bank France Moderator: Bruno Lanvin, Executive Director for Global Indices, INSEAD
Capitalism and Social Progress (Video) The prevailing aspiration of business is performance, while that of society is progress. Capitalism, both the paradigm and practice, sits at the intersection of these dual aspirations. While its fruits have been impressive, capitalism now evokes a range of familiar concerns. From fairness to financialization, extreme climate to contagious consumerism, divergence in incomes to a money-politics nexus, trust in business and business leaders is shaky. Is the problem with the practice and/or the paradigm? Should and can enterprises better integrate performance with progress? Is performance the sole and proper realm of business while progress the proper realm of government? In this session we will explore these questions both from theory and practice. Subramanian Rangan, The Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court Endowed Chair in Societal Progress
Closing remarks Peter Zemsky, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, INSEAD

Leading innovation

20 October 2015

Under the Patronage of H.E. Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman, Department of Transport

What differentiates great companies from the rest? The pace of change in today's globalised business environment requires constant innovation to sustain growth. What kind of leadership is needed at the individual, group and organisational level, to create the culture and support the effective relationships that make innovation happen? INSEAD’s Global Business Leaders Conference will bring together a range of high-level speakers from academia, industry and government to share their insights on Leading Innovation.

Master of Ceremony Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, Professor of Strategy, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, , INSEAD
Welcome (Video) Andreas Jacobs (MBA'90D), Chairman of INSEAD, Chairman of Barry Callebaut AG, Member of the Board, Jacobs Holding AG Ilian Mihov, Dean, Professor of Economics, The Rausing Chaired Professor of Economic and Business Transformation, INSEAD
Opening Remarks H.E. Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman, Department of Transport
Educating Innovators (Video) Mohamed Yousif Baniyas, Executive Director and Higher Education Advisor, Abu Dhabi Education Council
Innovating Educators Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, Professor of Strategy, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, , INSEAD
The impact of digital on business and organisations (Video) Liri Andersson, Founder, this fluid world In her talk, Liri Andersson sets out to answer the following question,’The impact of digital on business and on organisations’. She addresses this complicated topic by describing the fundamental changes taking place in the business environment driven by innovation in digital technologies, and its impact on consumers, business, innovation and on organisations. Key points in the presentation are illustrated through powerful examples from across regions, industries and brands.
Innovation in Media (Video) Mustafa Alrawi, Business Editor, The National Fida Chaaban, Editor-in-Chief, Entrepreneur Middle East Rasha Rteil, Head of Innovation, UM MENA Moderator: Miguel Sousa Lobo, Associate Professor of Decision Sciences, Director of the Abu Dhabi Campus, INSEAD
Millennials: How will Gen-Y influence the future of the Middle East? (Video) Henrik Bresman, Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour, Academic Director, INSEAD Global Leadership Centre, INSEAD Professor Bresman will share the early results from an international research project on the Millennial generation. How are they different from earlier generations and how do Middle Eastern Millennials differ from their peers around the world? Join us as we provide a few possible answers and discuss their implications for the Middle East.
CEO Roundtable: How do companies in mature industries innovate to remain competitive (Video) Said Darwazah (MBA'84D), Chairman and CEO, Hikma Pharmaceuticals Andreas Jacobs (MBA'90D), Chairman of INSEAD, Chairman of Barry Callebaut AG, Member of the Board, Jacobs Holding AG Arjen Radder, CEO, Philips Middle East & Turkey Tarek Sultan, CEO and Vice Chairman, Agility Moderator: Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, Professor of Strategy, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, , INSEAD

Business as a force for good

20 October 2014

Under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Department of Transport and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority

The prevailing aspiration of any business is performance, while that of society is progress. Capitalism, both the paradigm and practice, sits at the intersection of these dual aspirations.

Long in the making and until now effectively rebutting naysayers with superior results on the ground, capitalism is in an acknowledged crisis. Issues from climate change, concerns about fairness to future generations, business cycles, dubious financialization of every corner of society, staggering inequality, joblessness and distrust in business leaders are some of the seemingly acute and chronic dilemmas that now attach to capitalism.

Is business a force for the greater good? Can enterprises reconcile performance with progress? Or is performance the sole and proper realm of business while progress is the proper realm of government?

Welcome Opening remarks Ilian Mihov, Dean, Professor of Economics, The Novartis Chaired Professor of Management and Environment, INSEAD Master of Ceremony Miguel Sousa Lobo, Associate Professor of Decision Sciences, Director of the Abu Dhabi Campus, INSEAD
H.E. Dr. Amal Abdullah Juma Al Qubaisi, Director General, Abu Dhabi Education Council
Keynote Speech H.E. Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Department of Transport and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority
Interview André Sayegh, Chief Executive Officer, FGB Moderator Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean, Professor of Strategy, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, INSEAD
Irreconcilable differences? Capitalism, business and society The prevailing aspiration of business is performance, while that of society is progress. Capitalism, both the paradigm and practice, sits at the intersection of these dual aspirations. Long in the making and until now effectively rebutting naysayers with superior results on the ground, capitalism is in some acknowledged crisis. Climate change and concerns about fairness to future generations; business cycles and dubious financialization of the economy; staggering inequality; trade and technology triggered joblessness; and distrust in business and business leaders are some of the seemingly acute and chronic dilemmas that now attach to capitalism. Is business a force for the greater good? Can enterprises reconcile performance with progress? Or is performance the sole and proper realm of business while progress is the proper realm of government? In this session, we will explore these fundamental dilemmas. Subramanian Rangan, Professor of Strategy and Management, The Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court Endowed Chair in Societal Progress, INSEAD
Panel Discussion Fadi Ghandour, Founder & Vice Chairman, Aramex Filipe Santos, Visiting Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship, Academic Director - Social Entrepreneurship Initiative, INSEAD Moderator Subramanian Rangan, Professor of Strategy and Management, The Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court Endowed Chair in Societal Progress, INSEAD
Panel Discussion: Path to CEO/Board Mark Houghton, Managing Director, Odgers Berndtson Middle East Jonathan Richard Holmes, Managing Director, Korn/Ferry International Middle East Tommy Weir, Founder and Managing Director, Emerging Markets Leadership Center Moderator Gilles Hilary, Professor of Accounting and Control, The Mubadala Chaired Professor in Corporate Governance and Strategy, INSEAD
New Business Models move the World Disruption is everywhere— established businesses, political and social systems are increasingly challenged by new systems that drastically change the status quo. At the heart of most disruptive change lie new business models that outperform existing systems or enable adoption and propagation of new technologies. In this talk, Prof. Girotra will highlight the role of new business models in the historical advance of industries, countries and societies. He will then highlight that some of the greatest challenges facing mankind— environmental sustainability, urbanization, demographic change— might be best addressed by new business models that address these challenges and provide opportunities for entrepreneurs to create new ventures Karan Girotra, Associate Professor of Technology and Operations Management, INSEAD
Closing remarks Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean, Professor of Strategy, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, INSEAD, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation

Time to reform

Building European Competitiveness Through Effective Capital and Talent Markets
20 JUNE 2014

The skills gap is a global challenge that is simultaneously contributing to unemployment while hindering the growth of important sectors of the economy. This challenge is particularly relevant for Europe given its traditional labour market protections and limited flexibility. The Conference was an opportunity to benchmark Europe’s effectiveness in developing, attracting, and leveraging talent relative to other advanced economies, and to discuss specific company strategies and public policies required to develop a more dynamic talent market in Europe, therefore contributing to competitiveness and innovation.

Opening (Video) Ilian Mihov, Dean of INSEAD Master of Ceremony: Javier Gimeno, Professor of Strategy, Aon Dirk Verbeek Chaired Professor in International Risk and Strategic Management, INSEAD Academic Director, INSEAD European Competitiveness Initiative Special Message Mr Basilio Horta, Mayor of Sintra José Manuel Barroso, President, European Commission (video) Keynote Dialogue (Video) & (Slides) Mikael Hagstrom, Chair of the American Chamber of Commerce to the European Union Executive Council; Executive Vice President, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, SAS Thierry Breton, CEO, Atos Former French Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry Chairman of the Global Business Leaders Conference Steering Committee Moderator: Peter Zemsky, Dean for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, INSEAD
The Euro area: Stagnation or Recovery (Video) Panel discussion About two years years ago the Euro area was heading into its second recession in less than four years. Several national governments had either lost access to financial markets or were facing very high interest rates and most observers predicted a number of sovereign defaults and a break up of the Euro area. Today, most countries have returned to positive growth rates. Government interest rates have come down to levels that are either consistent or even below historical standards and the idea of an exit from the Euro area seems once again unthinkable. What lies ahead for the Euro countries? Is the crisis behind us? Is growth about to accelerate or to remain at a low level for several years? Will the Euro area be prepared to fight the next crisis? This distinguished panel of academics and practitioners will discuss the prospects for growth in the Euro area and the challenges ahead. Academic lead: Antonio Fatas, Professor of Economics, INSEAD The Portuguese Council Chaired Professor of European Studies Chair, Economics and Political Science Area Speakers: Roch Doliveux, MBA'81, CEO, UCB Andreas Höfert, Chief Economist Wealth Management/Swiss Bank & CIO Europe, UBS Charles Wyplosz, Professor of International Economics, Graduate Institute of Geneva Director, International Centre for Money and Banking Studies
Financing European Growth (Video) & (Slides) Panel discussion Is the lack of credit holding Europe back? While many headlines have declared that economic recovery is underway, especially with Asian and American high-tech sectors, declaring themselves out of the 2008 crisis; smaller European businesses and SMEs still struggle to find funding to pull themselves and the economy out of the slump. According to an AT Kearney survey, only nine of the world’s top 100 high-tech companies have their headquarters in Europe, generating only a tenth of the industry’s global revenues. The lack of funding is shown to be one of the key elements contributing to the downward spiral of low growth and profits. However savvy SMEs are now looking to less traditional approaches for funding, and succeeding. What is the role of Venture Capital market? Can European IPO market compete against Asian and American IPO markets? Will we have any European high-tech firms left in 10 years time? This panel discusses the current challenges and opportunities for small and medium-sized European enterprises in terms of financing and competitiveness. It includes both the views from EU and US institutions, as well as the experiences of entrepreneurs and banking sector representatives. Academic lead: Pekka Hietala, Professor of Finance, INSEAD Speakers: Richard Pelly, MBA'83J, Former Chief Executive, European Investment Fund Bernardo Sanchez Incera, MBA'90J, Deputy CEO, Société Générale Antonio Carro, MBA’85D, Chairman, Bio-Oils Energy, S.L.
Bridging the Talent Gaps (Video) & (Slides) Panel discussion What can be done to bridge the talent gaps in Europe? European countries do well on the Global Talent Competitiveness Index (GTCI), developed by INSEAD, albeit with big differences between countries. But all nations are faced with a worrying skills gap. Companies cannot find people with the needed skills and firms are reluctant to hire because of labour market rigidities. At the same time we face major unemployment, notable of youth and even graduates. This is a fundamental challenge for governments, corporations, educational establishments and individuals, perhaps reshaping our society for the future. Which sectors are most handicapped by a shortage of talent, and will this challenge grow further with the further impact of technology? What are the implications of the need for greater adaptability on the part of both businesses and individuals? Can business help in the obvious need for change in our educational systems, and in easing the transition from education into work? And how should governments cope with the political consequences – wishing to attract talented immigrants while facing dangerous unrest from those out of work? These are some of the aspects of European Competitiveness that the panel will explore with the aim of mapping out appropriate actions and responses. Academic lead: Paul A. L. Evans, Emeritus Professor of Organisational Behaviour, INSEAD The Shell Chair of Human Resources and Organisational Development, Emeritus Speakers: Patrick De Maeseneire, CEO, Adecco Group Lilia Jolibois, MBA'92J, Board Director, Theolia S.A., France, Trustee, CARA, UK Jan Muehlfeit, Chairman, Microsoft Europe Antonio Viana-Baptista, MBA'83D, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Credit Suisse Iberia
Reflections (Video) Panel discussion “Without action, the world would still be an idea” – the words of General Doriot are a reminder to move beyond debate towards immediate actions that can improve competitiveness in Europe. Whether these are initiated by companies, governments or the education sector, collaboration will be required to help Europe emerge from the current crisis. To identify the priorities and inspire participants, the closing panel will represent the three perspectives of business, government and academia. Ilian Mihov, Dean of INSEAD Carlos Moedas, Secretary of State to the Prime Minister, Government of Portugal Moderator: Bruno Lanvin, Executive Director, INSEAD European Competitiveness Initiative
Closing Speech (Video) HE Mr Antonio Pires de Lima, AMP'98J, Minister of the Economy, Government of Portugal

Creating sustainable business value

22 October 2013

Embedding sustainable practices into business strategies requires broad efforts, and sometimes transformational change, in management, governance, and technology. The conference will bring decision makers from the private and public sector to discuss the opportunities for creating sustainable business value through institutional reform and diffusion of best practices in industrial excellence and through the promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation.

The fifth installment of the successful Global Business Leaders Conference is an unprecedented opportunity to meet some of the region’s key decision makers that are currently shaping the future of this part of the world.

Welcome (Video) Opening remarks Ilian Mihov, Dean, Professor of Economics, Novartis Chaired Professor of Management and Environment, INSEAD Master of Ceremony: Miguel Lobo, Associate Professor of Decision Sciences, Director of the Abu Dhabi Campus, INSEAD
The Innovators DNA (Video) Innovation is the lifeblood of any company or country’s sustainable future. But what does it take to get great new ideas that make a positive difference? Based on interviews with over 100 disruptive innovators and surveys of over 8,000 innovative leaders around the world, we identified five skills that form the foundation for anyone's creative capacity. We will explore how these five skills work and how organizations or countries can sharpen them to help build a better future. Hal Gregersen, Senior Affiliate Professor of Innovation and Leadership, The Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank Chaired Professor of Innovation and Leadership, INSEAD
Interview (Video) Mishal Kanoo, Deputy Chairman, The Kanoo Group Moderator: Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean, Professor of Strategy, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, INSEAD
How social entrepreneurship is transforming the corporate sector This session will cover the different stages of development in the way corporations relate to society, from the basic stance of fulfilling minimum legal requirements to the adoption of a social mission as the focal point of organizational purpose. We will discuss through examples how corporations can progress through different stages, and what are the key challenges and opportunities at each point. The concept of corporate social entrepreneurship will be introduced to explain why and how some corporations are focusing on value creation for society. The outcome of this session is a framework to help you assess how yoLeading from the Board: A perspective from the Gulf The panel will look at how the role of governance is changing in a globalised world and how this is interpreted in the Middle East, keeping the local context in mind. Panelists will share their experiences on how to lead from the board and talk about what brings value to the company. Panelists: Shahzad Ahmed Khan, Associate General Counsel, Mubadala Deepak Padmanabhan (INSEAD Certified Director, 2013), Chief Executive Officer, Emirates International Telecommunications Leonardo Peklar, Chief Executive Officer, Hawkamah Moderator: Ludo Van der Heyden, The Mubadala Chaired Professor in Corporate Governance and Strategy, Director, INSEAD Corporate Governance Initiative, INSEADur corporation engages with societal issues and how to better connect corporate strategy with the needs of society. Filipe Santos, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship, Academic Director of the INSEAD Social Entrepreneurship Initiative, Director of the INSEAD Centre for Entrepreneurship (ICE), INSEAD
Management Challenges in the Middle East (Video) This session will feature the observations and insights of top executives with deep experience in the Middle East. While many regional issues are shared by other rapidly developing countries, some others reflect its distinctive historical, cultural, linguistic, religious, demographic and economic characteristics. We will explore both sources of challenges and their practical solutions. Speakers: Hussain Mohammed Al Mahmoudi (YMP'04Sep), Director General, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) Sam Barnett (MBA'97J), Chief Executive Officer, MBC Group Armand Phares (MBA'77J), Chairman and Managing Director, Mercuphar Moderator: Neil Jones, Affiliate Professor of Strategy, INSEAD
Closing remarks (Video) Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean, Professor of Strategy, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, INSEAD

Europe: converging on competitiveness

28 June 2013

(Photo Gallery)
In recent years, European governments and companies have embarked on painful efforts to contain debt and align labor costs with productivity. Some of these efforts are starting to show results, but to return to sustained prosperity and improved living standards for all, Europe needs to focus on improving long-term productivity in the private and the public sectors.

Europe has much to offer in terms of diverse and educated talent, sophisticated internal demand and modern infrastructure. But sustained competitiveness will require changes to economic institutions so incentives and efforts are aligned with long-term productivity. Companies must adapt strategy to the new realities of global competition if they are to reach and remain at the forefront of global best practice. Long-term competitiveness will require a more effective business ‘ecosystem’ to support innovative and entrepreneurial efforts in Europe.

The conference will bring decision-makers from the private and public sector to debate the opportunities for long-term competitiveness in Europe through institutional reform, diffusion of best practices in industrial excellence, and promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Opening (Video) & (Slides) Peter Zemsky, INSEAD Dean (Interim) Master of Ceremony: Javier Gimeno, Professor of Strategy, Aon Dirk Verbeek Chaired Professor in International Risk and Strategic Management, INSEAD Academic Director, INSEAD European Competitiveness Initiative
Introduction Claude Janssen, Honorary Chairman of INSEAD
Keynote speech Pablo Isla, Chairman and CEO, INDITEX Group
Business Excellence: lessons from the Mittelstand (Video) & (Slides) This panel explores the special nature of medium-sized companies (Mittelstand in Germany, or Entreprises de Taille Intermediaire in France), and how these companies in Western Europe achieve business excellence and global competitiveness. [read more] Presentation Stephen E. Chick, Professor of Technology and Operations Management, INSEAD; The Novartis Chaired Professor of Healthcare Management; Academic Director, Healthcare Management Initiative; Academic Director France/Eastern Europe, Industrial Excellence Awards Panel discussion Speakers: Hubert de Boisredon, CEO, Armor Group Cornelius Alexander Grupp, MBA'77, Chairman & CEO, CAG Holding GmbH Rudolf Knünz, MBA'77, Chairman of the Supervisory Board,Cross Industries AG Moderator: David Jolly, Editor, International Herald Tribune
Is Europe’s entrepreneurial ecosystem broken? (Video) This panel discusses the current challenges and opportunities for revitalizing entrepreneurship in Europe. It includes both the view from INSEAD’s research on entrepreneurship, as well as the experiences of successful entrepreneurs and venture capitalists. [read more] Panel discussion Speakers: Henry Engelhardt, MBA'88J, Chief Executive, Admiral Group plc Yann Lechelle, MBA'01J, Co-founder, Appsfire Antoine Papiernik, Managing Partner, Sofinnova Partners Presenter & moderator: Filipe Santos, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship Academic Director, INSEAD Social Entrepreneurship Initiative Director, Rudolf and Valeria Maag International Centre for Entrepreneurship
How do multinationals look at Europe? (Video) Multinational corporations have a critical impact on competitiveness in Europe. First, these companies adopt and spread best global management practices, and therefore upgrade the management skills in their host countries. [read more] Panel discussion Speakers: Rajesh Krishnamurthy, Vice President, Global Head – Consulting and Systems Integration - Retail, CPG, Logistics and Life Sciences, Infosys Ltd. Nick Leeder, MBA'95D, Managing Director, Google France Nunzio Mirtillo, Senior Vice President, Head of Region Mediterranean, Ericsson Presenters and moderators: Javier Gimeno, Professor of Strategy, Aon Dirk Verbeek Chaired Professor in International Risk and Strategic Management, INSEAD Academic Director, INSEAD European Competitiveness Initiative Charles Galunic, Professor of Organisational Behaviour, Aviva Chaired Professor of Leadership and Responsibility, INSEAD
Reflections (Video) “Without action, the world would still be an idea” – the words of General Doriot are a reminder to move beyond debate towards immediate actions that can improve competitiveness in Europe. [read more] Speakers Thierry Breton, Chairman & CEO, Atos Rintaro Tamaki, Deputy Secretary-General, OECD Peter Zemsky, Dean (Interim) of INSEAD; Professor of Strategy, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation Moderator: Bruno Lanvin, Executive Director, INSEAD European Competitiveness Initiative

The future of GCC’s competitiveness

21 October 2012

Under the Patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research

Over recent years, the GCC countries have successfully built national strategies to attract talent and develop leadership well beyond oil production. However, as the global balance of economic power is gradually shifting eastwards, the GCC finds itself in the face of greater challenges derived from increasing competitiveness and a race for innovation.

The third installment of the successful Global Business Leaders Conference is an unprecedented opportunity to meet some of the region’s key decision makers that are currently shaping the future of this part of the world.

Welcome Master of Ceremony: Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean Degree Programmes & Curriculum, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, INSEAD Opening remarks Dipak C. Jain, Dean of INSEAD
Panel 1: Business climate in the UAE & GCC: weathering the storm Panelists: H.E. Khalfan Sa'eed Al-Ka'abi, First Vice-Chairman, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mark Beer, Chief Executive and Registrar, DIFC Courts Philippe Dauba-Pantanacce, Senior Economist, Turkey, Middle East and North Africa Global Markets, Standard Chartered Bank Jean-Marie Péan, Partner & Chairman, Bain & Company Middle East Moderator: Neil Jones, Affiliate Professor of Strategy, INSEAD
Panel 2: Developing leadership talent in an era of transformation Panelists: Jalal Mohamed Al Hashemi, Operations Training Manager – Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) Chadi Moujaes, Partner, Booz & Co. Yaser Obaid, Senior Vice President HR, Du Moderator: Miguel Sousa Lobo, Associate Professor of Decision Sciences, INSEAD
Guest of Honour H.E. Humaid Moh’d Al Qutami, Minister of Education, UAE
Panel 3: From local to global: challenges of creating a global brand Panelists: Rashid Abdulla, Senior Vice President, Global Operations, DP World Bernard Creed, Vice President Finance, Dubai Duty Free Piers Schreiber, Vice President Corporate Communications & Public Affairs, Jumeirah Group Moderator: Peter Zemsky, Deputy Dean Degree Programmes & Curriculum, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, INSEAD
Panel 4: Businesses building stronger communities: corporate social responsibility Panelists: Yassin Attas, Communications Director, Procter & Gamble Middle East, North Africa & Pakistan Sanjiv Mehta, Chairman, Unilever North Africa Middle East Ammar Shams, Regional Head of Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Bank Middle East Limited Frank Welvaert, Director, Corporate Social Responsibility, Europe, Middle East and North Africa, Johnson & Johnson Moderator: Filipe Santos, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship, Academic Director - INSEAD Social Entrepreneurship Initiative, Director -Rudolf and Valeria Maag International Centre for Entrepreneurship (Maag ICE), INSEAD

The future of european competitiveness

6 July 2012

Opening: Claude Janssen, Honorary Chairman of the INSEAD Board Master of Ceremony: Peter Zemsky, Acting Dean, Deputy Dean Degree Programmes & Curriculum, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, INSEAD
Dialogue with Jean-François Copé Jean-François Copé shares his views on what needs to be done to ensure growth and sustainability in Europe. He will discuss the challenges corporates and governments face to revitalise the economy and keep Europe competitive. Speaker: Jean-François Copé, Mayor of Meaux, MP (Seine-et-Marne), and General Secretary of the Union for a Popular Movement (UMP) Moderator: Ilian Mihov, Deputy Dean for Faculty and Research, Professor of Economics, The Novartis Chaired Professor of Management and Environment, INSEAD
Solution Innovation – A European Game? Too often business and political leaders look only to product and technology innovation to generate growth, overlooking the many other ways firms can innovate. Significant growth is often realised by finding new ways to doing old business, in particular by providing broader solutions to customers. How well placed are European firms to make this transition from product sellers to solution providers? Speaker: Markus Christen, Associate Professor of Marketing, INSEAD
European CEO Panel What is the future of the European economy and business? European CEOs discuss the trends, risks, uncertainties and opportunities surrounding the European economy and how their companies are meeting the challenges of remaining competitive and creating growth. Speakers: Jon Fredrik Baksaas, President and CEO, Telenor Group Thierry Breton, Chairman and CEO, Atos Jim Hagemann Snabe, Co-CEO, SAP Moderator: Bruno Lanvin, Executive Director of INSEAD eLab
Youth Panel The need for change has probably affected one segment more than any other – the future and next generation of leaders – the youths of today. Fuelled by passion, commitment and a desire to succeed, the panel of young leaders and entrepreneurs share their views, thoughts and hopes on the future of Europe in the next 20 years. Speakers: Valerie Coscas, MBA'08D, Strategy Director - Strategic Partnerships, France Telecom Group Emilie Cousteau, MBA'07D, CEO, One World Lingerie Steven Eichenberger, Managing Director, Euforia Myriam Oufella Ferran, GEMBA'12, Vice President, Head of Change Management, State Street Banque Mads Jensen, MBA'09J, CEO and Co-founder, Sefaira Moderator: Horacio Falcão, MBA'02D, Affiliate Professor of Decision Sciences, INSEAD
International CEO Panel What is Europe’s potential and role in the global economy? How will Europe fare in the light of the rapidly ascending Asian economies and the slow US recovery? International CEOs give their perspectives on the global scale. Speakers: David Arkless, President of Corporate and Government Affairs, Manpower Elena Panaritis, MBA'03D, CEO and Founder, Panel Group Markwart von Pentz. President, Agriculture and Turf Division - Europe, CIS, Northern Africa, Middle East, Latin America and Global Harvesting, Crop Care, Hay & Forage Products, John Deere Moderator: Marcus Mabry, Editor-at-large, International Herald Tribune and The New York Times
Reflections What is the future of Europe? What paths should we take, and what strengths should we focus on? How can INSEAD contribute to bringing Europe to the next level? The Deans discuss their thoughts and vision for business, education and Europe. Speakers: Peter Zemsky, Acting Dean, Deputy Dean Degree Programmes & Curriculum, The Eli Lilly Chaired Professor of Strategy and Innovation, INSEAD Ilian Mihov, Deputy Dean for Faculty and Research, Professor of Economics, The Novartis Chaired Professor of Management and Environment, INSEAD Miklos Sarvary, Deputy Dean for Executive Development, The GlaxoSmithKline Chaired Professor of Corporate Innovation, Director, The Learning Innovation Centre, INSEAD

Global business leaders conference

23 October 2011

Welcome and opening keynote speeches Dipak C. Jain, Dean of INSEAD Latest Economic and Social Trends in Abu Dhabi and GCC H.E. Mohammad Omar Abdullah, Undersecretary of the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi (DED) Tim Fox, Chief Economist, Emirates NBD Bank
Economic Diversification and Capability Development in Abu Dhabi H.E. Fahad Al Raqbani, Director General, Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development Samir Abdullatif, Chief Strategy Officer, Injazat Data Systems Khaled Salmeen Al Kawari, Executive Vice President, Industrial Zone, Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC)
Guest of Honour Speech H.E. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research
Investment in Human Capital Dr. Rafic Makki, Executive Director, Planning & Strategic Affairs, Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) Chadi Moujaes, Partner, Booz & Company
The Business Environment in the UAE and GCC Abdulaziz Al-Yaqout, Regional Managing Partner, DLA Piper Dr. Anil Khurana, Partner, PwC Sami Issa, Executive Director, Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC)

Related Events

Date: 16 Feb 2020
Venue: Abu Dhabi

This year’s GBLC will take a forward looking perspective, explore global trends on renewal and change management, and how regional leaders and corporations can position themselves to ride the waves ...

Date: 24 Feb 2019
Venue: Dubai

Join us for The INSEAD Campaign Launch in the Middle East, and the Global Business Leaders Conference. Visit the website for more details.

Date: 23 Oct 2017
Venue: Abu Dhabi Global Market

Our website has a lot of features which will not display correctly without Javascript.

Please enable Javascript in your browser

Here how you can do it: http://enable-javascript.com

Search form