Today, the vast majority of global leadership, whether in politics, business, or finance, remains dominated by men.
As of 2024, men hold over 85% of Fortune 500 CEO roles and over 90% of head-of-state positions worldwide. The handful of women who do reach these heights are often celebrated for simply being there, regardless of how transformational their leadership is.
Meanwhile, the world faces daunting challenges: persistent wars, rising inequality, polarized societies, environmental crises. It’s fair to ask: would things look different if leadership better reflected the populations it serves?
Let’s look at the facts:
And yet, leadership remains overwhelmingly male. Figures like Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Narendra Modi, and others are making decisions that affect billions - decisions often framed by models of leadership cantered on dominance, competition, and control.
Importantly, men and women tend to bring different strengths to leadership. Studies suggest that men often focus more on task orientation, rapid decision-making, and risk-taking, while women are more likely to emphasize collaboration, long-term thinking, and inclusive communication. Neither approach is inherently better, but when leadership is dominated by one style alone, important perspectives and opportunities can be missed.
A balanced leadership model, where both styles are valued and integrated, could offer a far more adaptive and resilient way to tackle today’s complex challenges.
To be clear, this is not about criticizing individual leaders simply because they are men. Many male leaders have demonstrated extraordinary vision and empathy. But the system itself, built over centuries by and for men, prioritizes a certain style of leadership that isn't always suited to today's interconnected, complex challenges.
More women in leadership would likely bring:
Imagine if half of the world’s major economies were run by women.
Imagine if peace talks were led equally by those who have lived experiences not just of power, but of powerlessness.
Imagine boardrooms and parliaments where diversity was the default, not the exception.
It’s not just a matter of fairness. It’s a matter of effectiveness, performance, and progress.
The world is overdue for a leadership revolution - one where women are not the exception at the table, but equal partners designing the future.
At Friisberg & Partners International, we help our clients find the very best leaders - regardless of gender - who can drive real, lasting success.
We believe that diverse leadership teams aren’t just good for business, they are essential for building a better future. By focusing on skills, vision, and values, we ensure that organisations are led by those best equipped to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.
Excitement is building as the Friisberg spring conference approaches, and this year, it promises to be an exceptional gathering in the historic and vibrant city of Edinburgh.
As one of the leading Executive Search firms, Friisberg has built a reputation for excellence through our deep industry expertise, commitment to delivering exceptional talent solutions, and a vast number of highly experienced consultants. With decades of experience, we have successfully placed senior executives across multiple sectors, helping businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive global landscape. Our collaborative approach, innovative search methodologies, and dedication to long-term partnerships set us apart as a trusted advisor in Executive Search.
Lorri Lowe, Managing Partner UK, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, "I am really looking forward to welcoming colleagues from around the world to our 122nd Spring conference. With offices spanning multiple countries, my colleagues work closely together throughout the year, and these biannual conferences are invaluable for fostering trust, collaboration, and truly great working relationships."
Beyond the professional insights and discussions, Edinburgh provides the perfect backdrop for this prestigious gathering. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and renowned hospitality, the city offers countless opportunities for colleagues to connect and enjoy their time together outside of formal meetings.
As the event draws near, anticipation is high for an inspiring and productive conference. From engaging discussions to memorable moments in one of the UK's most beautiful cities, this promises to be a truly special occasion for all involved.
Friisberg & Partners International is proud to announce that our Hungary office has secured second place in the Budapest Business Journal's ranking of top Executive Search firms.
This outstanding achievement is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and hard work of our exceptional team in Hungary, whose deep market knowledge and client-focused approach set us apart in a highly competitive industry.
At Friisberg, we take immense pride in the outstanding professionals who represent our firm. Their deep market knowledge, commitment to innovation, and client-first approach continue to set us apart. This achievement reflects not only their hard work but also the trust and confidence placed in us by our clients and candidates.
We understand that our clients are discerning, making thoughtful decisions about who they trust with their Search and Organisational Development needs. That’s why our team in Hungary consistently delivers innovative, tailored solutions that create real value for both clients and candidates.
Our commitment remains the same across all markets: to drive success for our clients and ensure an outstanding candidate experience.
To our team in Hungary: thank you for your unwavering dedication. Your success is well deserved, and we look forward to seeing you reach even greater heights.
Congratulations for this well-earned recognition!
We are delighted to announce that Alex Wenyon has joined our London office as a Consultant. Alex brings an impressive background of professional excellence and personal achievement, with a career spanning roles in public relations and marketing for iconic global brands such as Nissan and Harley-Davidson.
In addition to her professional expertise, Alex is a celebrated cox for the GB and Australian Paralympic Rowing teams and has achieved the prestigious distinction of winning at Henley Royal Regatta. Her dedication, leadership, and strategic mindset, honed both in corporate boardrooms and on the water, exemplify the qualities that make her a valuable addition to Friisberg.
“We are thrilled to welcome Alex to the Friisberg team,” said Zoltan Petho, Chair of Friisberg. “Her experience with globally renowned brands, combined with her competitive spirit and commitment to excellence, will bring a unique perspective to our clients.”
As a Consultant at Friisberg, Alex will support organisations across a variety of industries, leveraging her expertise in branding, stakeholder engagement, and strategic transformation to deliver tailored solutions that address their most pressing challenges.
“I am incredibly excited to join Friisberg and bring my passion for strategy, leadership, and teamwork to this global consultancy,” said Alex Wenyon. “My experiences in both the corporate and sporting worlds have taught me the importance of focus, collaboration, and adaptability - qualities I look forward to applying in this new role.”
Alex’s appointment reflects Friisberg’s commitment to attracting exceptional talent and delivering innovative, high-impact consultancy services to clients across the globe.
As we reflect on 2024, I want to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable journey we’ve shared this year. Together, Friisberg has faced challenges head-on, celebrated significant achievements, and continued to thrive as a global team—united by our unwavering commitment to excellence and collaboration.
This year has been one of growth and innovation for Friisberg. We’ve deepened our relationships with partners and clients, broadened our horizons, and demonstrated resilience and adaptability in a rapidly evolving world. These accomplishments are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and shared belief in the impact of what we do.
In 2024, we saw organizations worldwide placing greater emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, prioritizing leadership with strong adaptability and change-management skills, and seeking out executives who could drive sustainability and innovation in an increasingly digital and globalized economy. Friisberg has remained at the forefront of these trends, partnering with clients to identify exceptional leaders who align with their vision and values.
As we look ahead to 2025, I’m filled with optimism and enthusiasm. The opportunities on the horizon are extraordinary, and we are poised to build on our solid foundation, innovate how we serve our clients, and continue nurturing the supportive, family-like culture that makes Friisberg unique.
We will enter 2025 with the same energy, passion, and determination that have defined us this year—ready to reach new milestones and embrace every challenge as a unified team.
From all of us at Friisberg, we wish you and your loved ones a New Year filled with health, happiness, and success.
The luxury goods sector is a dynamic industry requiring leaders who combine innovation with respect for heritage.
The global luxury market reached €1.5 trillion in 2023, with Japan leading growth in 2024 due to a tourism boom. However, headwinds such as economic slowdown and shifting consumer expectations are influencing strategies. Key trends include:
Our team in Friisberg possesses unparalleled expertise in the global luxury goods sector, rooted in decades of first-hand industry experience and a commitment to staying ahead of market trends.
We know the luxury sector, its many facets and its various fields of activity, because we have experienced it from the inside, in important companies that feed it. We have learnt the concepts of "tailor made" and "customisation" that are specific to this world, and we apply them in the selection of the professionals that the sector requires. We continue to monitor its trends and evolutions in terms of digital transformation, sustainability and consumer expectations to ensure that the candidates we propose are 'tailor-made' to the client's needs and able to lead and innovate. Our focused experience in the industry gives us a unique perspective, allowing us to assess candidates in depth and find those who possess the qualities that the best luxury brands need.
After a period of robust growth, we see that the luxury sector is facing a slowdown. Factors such as economic uncertainties in major markets like China and the U.S., along with increased prices, have contributed to this deceleration. Notably, LVMH reported a 3% drop in sales in Q3 2024, marking its first decline since the COVID-19 crisis.
Consumers are increasingly favouring understated elegance over conspicuous branding, and this 'quiet luxury' trend emphasizes high-quality, timeless pieces without overt logos, reflecting a shift towards subtlety and sophistication. The younger generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, are becoming significant drivers of luxury consumption. They prioritize experiences, sustainability, and authenticity, prompting brands to adapt their strategies to meet these preferences. There's also a growing consumer preference for luxury experiences over products. This includes exclusive events, personalized services, and unique travel opportunities, leading brands to expand their offerings beyond traditional goods.
Considering the global luxury market in 2024 so far, we are witnessing a change in consumer behaviour in specific regions. China’s economy has been slowing down and Chinese consumers have been questioning their luxury buying transactions. Due to the weakening Yen, Chinese consumers are spending their shopping budget in Japan rather than their local market. For this reason, Japanese sales have been growing despite the global trend. Other markets, including China and the U.S., are experiencing stagnation or decline. With a 23% sales increase in Japan and a growth in all regions, Hermès stands out with its long-term focus and continued success story.
By consistently staying ahead of industry trends, including digital transformation, sustainability, and the evolution of consumer expectations, we ensure that the candidates we recommend are equipped to lead and innovate. Our targeted industry expertise gives us a unique vantage point, enabling us to assess candidates holistically and find those with the qualities that top luxury brands need.
These trends indicate a dynamic and evolving luxury market, with brands needing to adapt to changing consumer behaviours and global economic conditions to maintain their relevance and growth.
For many luxury brands, filling senior roles also requires a sensitivity to cultural and geographic considerations, as well as an understanding of emerging markets and global consumer trends. We incorporate these factors into our strategy, ensuring our clients can access the most suitable candidates regardless of their location.
My colleague Leila Othieno, who has worked extensively in the fashion and entertainment industries, recently noted that whether it’s goods, experiences, or hospitality, the word ‘Luxury’ evokes a feeling - something intangible yet unforgettable. It carries its own kind of magic, and at the heart of this magic lies one critical element: people.
There is no doubt that leaders who inspire, who cultivate cultures that bring out the best in their teams, and who connect authentically are essential. In the luxury sector, where every detail matters, selecting the right leaders is more than a strategic decision - it’s an investment in the brand’s legacy and future.
The luxury goods market in New York saw stable growth despite challenges from macroeconomic uncertainties and changing consumer behaviours. Recovery in tourism, particularly from international visitors, supported demand for premium products and experiences. However, growth slowed compared to prior years due to inflation and cautious spending among domestic consumers. Key trends included a focus on "less but better" purchases, with watches and jewellry remaining strong performers. Emerging preferences for subtle, minimalist styles ("quiet luxury") contrasted with past tastes for logo-heavy items, reflecting broader economic pressures. Additionally, younger luxury buyers leaned into tech-driven innovations and showed interest in sustainable and ethical practices, signalling a shift in brand engagement strategies. These developments indicate the sector's need to balance exclusivity with accessibility to maintain relevance and growth.
Luxury brands are unique because their leaders must embody the brand's DNA while driving growth and innovation. Our recruitment process is highly personalized - we invest time understanding each brand's identity, values, and market positioning. This enables us to find leaders who can authentically connect with consumers and inspire teams. Confidentiality is also crucial in this sector. We prioritize discretion throughout our process, handling sensitive matters with professionalism to maintain the trust and integrity that our clients expect.
In 2024, Poland's luxury goods market is thriving, driven by rising consumer confidence, economic stability, and growing wealth. Premium and luxury cars lead the sector, with increasing demand for electric and hybrid models. Personal luxury items such as designer apparel, watches, and jewelry are also popular, reflecting a cultural trend to display status through high-end brands. E-commerce is gaining traction for personal luxury, although in-store shopping remains significant for items like beauty products and fashion. Meanwhile, luxury real estate and experiential luxury, such as premium hospitality, are expanding due to rising incomes and a surge in domestic and international tourism.
When we work with companies, our role goes beyond filling a position; we build enduring partnerships with our clients. We remain involved as their businesses evolve, providing insight and expertise to help them navigate change. Our track record speaks for itself - we consistently place leaders who make meaningful contributions, enhancing their brands’ market presence and cultural significance. Our success is rooted in a deep understanding of the luxury sector, mirroring the emphasis on reputation and relationship-building that defines the industry.
Team Friisberg: The key lies in understanding the unique essence of each brand and aligning it with leaders who can honor its heritage while fostering innovation. It’s a delicate balance that requires industry knowledge, a trusted network, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For luxury brands, every leadership choice is a strategic investment in their legacy and future.
Recruiting senior talent for luxury brands demands an intimate knowledge of the industry’s nuances, trends, and cultural significance.
Friisberg’s team combines first-hand experience, strategic insight, and a tailored approach to connect luxury brands with visionary leaders who drive both tradition and transformation.
Natalia Kadia is a distinguished expert in neuromanagement, certified by the NeuroLeadership Institute in New York. She is a seasoned consultant specializing in organizational development, leadership, and human resources management, and she serves as a board member at the Centre for Social Change and Behavioural Economics.
With over a decade of experience, Natalia has successfully applied behavioural change strategies to enhance performance in both business and public organizations. Her work empowers leaders to unlock their leadership potential through evidence-based Neuromanagement methodologies. In her role as a lecturer at the Lviv Business School of UCU (LVBS), mentor, and certified coach from Erickson University International (ICF), Natalia guides leaders to improve their decision-making and build emotional intelligence using cutting-edge educational tools and coaching practices.
Beyond her consulting and teaching commitments, Natalia is a frequent media expert for the national 1+1 television channel, sharing her insights on leadership and organizational behavior.
We are delighted that Natalia is joining Friisberg in our Kyiv office. Her arrival marks an exciting chapter for our team, as her extensive expertise and innovative approach will further strengthen our consulting services and provide invaluable insights to our clients.
Natalia’s experience in driving behavioural change and developing leadership excellence aligns seamlessly with Friisberg’s commitment to empowering organizations and leaders.
Zoltan Petho, Chair of Friisberg said,
“We are thrilled to welcome Natalia Kadia to Friisberg. Her proven track record in neuromanagement and leadership development makes her an outstanding addition to our Kyiv team. Natalia’s deep understanding of organizational dynamics and her innovative methodologies will undoubtedly inspire growth and success for both our clients and our consultants. We look forward to the positive impact she will bring as we continue to support leaders and organizations in achieving their full potential.”
Friisberg is confident that her contributions will elevate our capabilities and reinforce our presence in the region.
In an era marked by continuous disruptions, leaders are increasingly called to guide their teams through challenging and unpredictable times.
Crises stemming from political, economic, and geopolitical events prompt leaders to rethink how they maintain productivity, engagement, and cohesion. However, while current crises undoubtedly impact team morale, they may not be the sole factor. Pressures such as a results-driven culture and shifts in management practices also shape the employee experience. Senior managers need to develop critical competencies, both to navigate the immediate effects of uncertainty and to prepare for long-term resilience.
Crises can create stress within teams, affecting engagement and cohesion. Issues like rising fuel costs, resource shortages, and heightened geopolitical tensions may play a significant role in reducing morale, yet they are part of a broader array of challenges employees face today. A study by Gallup suggests that nearly half of employees feel disconnected from their organisation’s objectives in times of uncertainty. But are crises really the primary cause? Leaders are encouraged to look holistically at factors influencing engagement, responding proactively to strengthen alignment with organisational values and maintain team motivation.
During a crisis, the leadership role extends from traditional oversight to embodying stability and clarity. Leaders are not only responsible for decisive actions but also for addressing underlying anxieties within their teams. A Deloitte report shows that consistent and transparent communication from senior leaders can foster trust and engagement, which are critical during uncertain times. Leaders are thus called to remain adaptable and empathetic, addressing both the operational and emotional needs of their workforce.
Adapting to crises requires a dynamic approach to leadership that balances immediate operational resilience with a forward-looking mindset. Key actions include:
While crises reveal organisational vulnerabilities, they may also uncover opportunities for growth and adaptation. The World Economic Forum reports that organisations accelerating digital transformation efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic often achieved substantial revenue growth post-crisis. This highlights how a proactive, future-focused approach can enable organisations to adapt and even capitalise on changes in the environment, transforming adversity into competitive advantages.
Effective crisis management involves looking beyond immediate issues to anticipate future challenges. Deloitte's research highlights that organisations with robust continuity plans are better equipped to handle subsequent crises. Leaders should prioritise risk anticipation, foster a culture of continuous learning, and reinforce organisational agility to create a workforce capable of thriving amidst ongoing uncertainties.
Leadership during crises requires a blend of strategic insight, adaptability, and empathy. For executives and senior managers, leading teams through uncertainty is as much about resilience as it is about building a foundation for long-term success.
Rather than solely responding to crises, leaders should cultivate an organisational culture ready to confront future challenges and to transform adversity into progress.
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Sabine Pirkner to our Executive Board. In her new role, Sabine will be responsible for leading and shaping our Business Development strategy, furthering our growth and market expansion goals.
Sabine brings a wealth of experience to the role. With a proven track record of driving innovation, strategic partnerships, and sustainable growth, Sabine is poised to strengthen our position in the marketplace.
“We are delighted to have Sabine on our executive team,” said Zoltan Petho, Chair of Friisberg, “Her deep expertise in business development and her visionary leadership will be instrumental in helping us navigate new growth opportunities and achieve our long-term strategic goals.”
Sabine’s appointment comes as Friisberg continues to build on its legacy of success, which has been driven by the guidance and vision of its accomplished Executive Board. Under this leadership Friisberg has achieved sustained growth, solidifying its reputation as a leader in the Management Consultancy & Executive Search industry. Their strategic approach has seen the company expand its global footprint, deliver unparalleled client service, and attract top-tier talent for clients across multiple sectors.
“I am excited to join the talented Executive Board and take on this new role," said Sabine. "I look forward to contributing to Friisberg's continued success and helping to shape its future by building strong partnerships and driving innovative growth strategies.
"In my role, my focus is on bringing together the deep expertise we have in certain countries and, based on that, formulating an overarching strategy that better reflects our years of experience across various industries. Together, it's about defining strategic initiatives and directions that will strengthen and expand our growth and presence.
"The aim is to reassess the strategic directions for individual markets, while also taking into account industry trends and developments. I believe that by combining all our experiences, we can become even stronger together and gradually build up our presence step by step."
As one of the oldest Search firms in Europe, Friisberg's innovative approach and dedication to client success continue to set it apart in a competitive marketplace.
Last week, Vienna, a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and world-class venues, played host to one of our most memorable conferences . The event brought together professionals, thought leaders, and innovators from various industries, showcasing our capability as a global advisory firm in leadership.
This, our 121st, conference attracted many of our Senior Partners and Senior Consultants from more than 20 countries, making it a truly global event. With a focus on 'Innovation and Growth in Challenging Times', the program was packed with insightful presentations, interactive workshops, and lively panel discussions.
Some of the key highlights included:
Keynote Speakers: Thought leaders contributed to a truly inspiriting debate on Innovation and Growth in Challenging Times:
We are hugely grateful for their participation.
Sabine Pirkner, who heads up our office in the heart of Vienna, ensured there were numerous opportunities for networking, with dedicated sessions for attendees to exchange ideas and make meaningful connections. These included informal meet-and-greet sessions, lunchtime roundtables, and a gala dinner offering a fantastic setting to wrap up the event.
Vienna’s well-known coffeehouse culture played a subtle role, with several breaks offering traditional Viennese coffee and pastries. This created a relaxed and social environment that fostered deeper conversations among participants.
No visit to Vienna is complete without experiencing its rich cultural heritage. Sabine curated a cultural program that allowed all our attendees to immerse themselves in the city’s artistic traditions. We all enjoyed an exclusive teambuilding afternoon at Kunsthistorisches Museum Kunstkammer with the unbelievably competitive and focused team of Zoltan Petho, Lorri Lowe, Alexander Matties, Leila Othieno, Thorsten Marquadt and Anna Pommersbach declared the clear winners!
Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many praised the seamless organization and the mix of high-level strategic and thought leadership content together with practical advice. The venue, the quality of speakers, and the opportunities for collaboration were all cited as standout features of the event.
"Vienna provided the perfect setting for our conference. The city’s charm, combined with the high quality of the sessions and the diversity of attendees, made this a truly exceptional experience," said Zoltan Petho, Chair of Friisberg.
This conference was a resounding success and the attendees returned to their respective countries with fresh insights and new connections. They also had a renewed confidence in Friisberg as a leading Management Consultancy firm with a world class specialism in Executive Search.
