Candid conversations with business leaders on a borderless life. Hosted by Andrew Kris, Founding Partner of Borderless.
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December 8, 202517 min
Career Renewal: Finding Purpose Mid-Career
Career change doesn’t have to be a leap into the dark. With executive-turned-consultant Jill Allemang, we walk through a clear, human, and repeatable path for mid and late career renewal—beginning with the honest question, “Do I really need to change?” and moving into “How do I change?” and “How do I stick with it?” Jill’s small‑group approach turns reflection into momentum, letting you surface what you already know, protect your privacy, and borrow courage and ideas from peers walking the same road.
November 21, 202524 min
Inclusion Made Real: a conversation with Luisa Boaretto of Grundfos
We chart Luisa Boareto’s shift from finance to global DEI leadership and test what makes inclusion truly business critical. From women in logistics to structured hiring and leadership modeling, we map practical steps, honest metrics, and the courage to act amid pushback.• values-led career pivot from finance to DEI• change management and influential leadership as core tools• CEO sponsorship and strategy alignment• polarization as a filter for authentic commitment• systemic equity in talent processes• women in logistics consortium as a business case• measurement across representation, perception, and impact• structured interviews and fair promotion discussions• guidance for CEOs on tone, modeling, and consistency• advice for emerging DEI leaders on focus and tailoring
September 9, 202521 min
Plastics Truth: Dispelling Environmental Myths
Chris DeArmitt joins us to share his evidence-based perspective on plastics, revealing how widespread misinformation distorts environmental priorities and leads well-intentioned consumers to make harmful choices. With five years of unpaid research analyzing over 5,000 scientific studies, Chris exposes the disconnect between alarming media narratives and the scientific consensus regarding plastic's environmental impact.• Debunking sensationalist claims about microplastics in human brains using scientifically invalid methods• Exposing media bias - 93% of articles claim plastics are harmful while scientific consensus shows no evidence of threat• Dismantling the "plastic island" myth - no Texas-sized garbage patch exists in our oceans• Revealing that 85% of ocean plastic is fishing gear while consumer items (bottles, straws, bags) make up just 0.03%• Comparing environmental impacts across materials - glass, paper and metal typically create more waste and emissions than plastic• Explaining why weight correlates with environmental impact - heavier alternatives generally have larger carbon footprints• Advocating for informed consumer choices based on scientific evidence rather than industry propagandaVisit phantomplastics.com or plasticsresearchcouncil.com for free access to peer-reviewed research on plastics and their environmental impact. Borderless Executive Search Finding executive leadership for the global chemical value chain and life sciences sectorsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
March 27, 202515 min
Why Smart Leaders Embrace Sustainability Even When the Spotlight Fades
Sustainability expert Mike Barber explains why sustainable business practices remain crucial despite losing some media spotlight and political traction in recent months. We explore how sustainability continues to gain momentum with investors, customers, and regulators while creating tangible business value through innovation, efficiency, and resilience.• Nearly 10,000 global corporations now committed to science-based targets for net zero emissions• Major investment firms like Brookfield continue deploying billions into renewable energy• The role of Chief Sustainability Officer evolving from education to performance optimization• Simple energy audits can yield 15% savings with zero capital expenditure• Integrating sustainability early in R&D and product development creates significant value• Circular economy initiatives like IKEA's refurbishment program generate new customer interactions• Sustainability requires whole-organization thinking, not just leadership from CSOs• Two-thirds of Fortune 500 purchasing officers cite sustainability as a strategic sourcing factor• Carbon Tracker Initiative offers free investment-grade analyses of sector winners and losers• Three key takeaways: sustainability is here to stay, creates business value, and requires leadership commitment
March 24, 202519 min
Bicycles, Beards, and Business: How Cultural Blindspots Sink Companies
Salvador Rivas-Mas shares his journey from a globetrotting backpacker to a cross-cultural consultant working with The Culture Factor (formerly Hofstede Insights), helping organizations navigate cultural differences in international business. Drawing on Professor Hofstede's research and his own experiences working across multiple continents, Salvador explains how understanding cultural dimensions can transform leadership effectiveness and prevent costly business failures.• Inspired by "The Alchemist" at age 12, Salvador developed a passion for exploring different cultures• Cross-cultural training provided frameworks to understand and prevent cultural shocks he had experienced• Management techniques aren't universally transferable - what works in the US may fail in Mexico, India or China• The Culture Factor has mapped cultural dimensions across 119 countries, providing data-driven guidance• Dolce & Gabbana lost one-third of their income after a culturally insensitive ad campaign in China• Only 16% of international mergers add value to businesses, with cultural misalignment being a major factor• Leadership expectations vary dramatically - cycling to work destroyed a Dutch executive's credibility in China• In Kenya, young managers must appear older to maintain authority with teams• Surface-level cultural convergence (clothing, food, entertainment) masks persistent deeper cultural differences• Salvador's book "Directivos Sin Fronteras" (Executives Without Borders) will soon be available in English"The survival of humankind will depend to a large extent on the ability of people who think differently to act together." – Professor Hofstede
March 18, 20255 min
The Borderless Mindset: Brian Hughes - a Refreshing View of Executive Search
Brian Hughes, partner at Borderless Executive Search, practicses the relationship-focused approach to executive search that defines the firm and transcends traditional transactional methods. His diverse background across logistics, finance, and engineering combined with international experience in Japan shapes his unique ability to match candidates based on values and cultural fit.• Breaking down barriers geographically and conceptually in executive search• Building lasting relationships rather than completing transactions• Leveraging diverse industry experience to better understand client needs• Using international experience to develop a truly global perspective• Focusing on "thriving" as the key to successful placements• Finding alignment between candidate values and company culture• Creating win-win situations for companies and candidates• Using multilingual skills to connect across cultures• Adapting to the changing nature of remote and global work• Challenging traditional linear career pathsWe'd love to hear your thoughts on this borderless philosophy. Does it resonate with your work experience? Share your perspective and join the conversation. Contact Brian: brian.hughes@borderless.net
March 17, 20258 min
The Art of Connection: Iveta's Headhunting Secrets
What makes someone truly exceptional at connecting people? We uncover the fascinating world of elite executive search through the career of Iveta Fleming, whose remarkable ability to match the right talent with the right opportunity has consistently placed her among the top 5% in client satisfaction.Beyond her impressive statistics lies a philosophy both simple and profound: "When the right candidate meets the right role, great things happen." While many recruiters focus merely on matching keywords and qualifications, Iveta's approach reveals a deeper understanding of human potential—what one client described as her "sixth sense for talent." She doesn't just fill positions; she discovers hidden opportunities and finds the missing pieces that transform organizations.Her multilingual abilities—fluent in English, Czech, German, and learning Slovenian—provide more than practical advantages; they offer cultural insights that bridge divides in our increasingly global business landscape. This linguistic versatility, combined with unwavering persistence and transparent communication, creates the foundation of trust necessary in high-stakes professional matchmaking.Perhaps most compelling is Iveta's commitment to creating connections that leave everyone "motivated and fulfilled." Her success story of placing a candidate with an arts background at a tech startup demonstrates the magic that happens when we look beyond conventional thinking. The lessons from her career extend far beyond executive search—they remind us that meaningful connections often emerge from unexpected places, and that approaching each interaction with genuine curiosity and empathy can unlock extraordinary possibilities. What connections might you create today that could transform tomorrow?
March 17, 20254 min
Andrew Kris: A Journey from Dow Chemical to Borderless Executive Search
Have you ever wondered what it takes to build your corporate ladder instead of just climbing one? Join us as we unravel the remarkable journey of Andrew Kris, from a high-ranking executive at Dow Chemical to the innovative founder of Borderless, a global executive search firm. Andrew’s career is anything but ordinary, spanning continents and industries—from life sciences to consumer goods and beyond. Discover how his adaptability and fearlessness became the cornerstone of his success, setting the stage for his leap into entrepreneurship amid the 1997 Internet boom.But that's not all. We delve into Andrew's unique approach to executive search and leadership consulting. Borderless isn't just about headhunting; it's about global executive search, finding and attracting leaders from wherever they are around the world to where they are needed. Andrew's story extends beyond business—he's also an independent commentator and board president of the Antwerp International School, constantly sharing his wealth of experience to guide future leaders. Tune in to get a rare glimpse into his transparent, transnational methodology and learn what it truly takes to create a meaningful and impactful career.
March 12, 202512 min
Shaping the Future: How Borderless Finds Visionary Leaders Who Transform Industries
What if finding the right leader could transform an entire industry? Discover the secrets behind Borderless, a firm that has placed over 1,500 executives who have become industry visionaries. Join us for an engaging exploration of how Borderless goes beyond the resume to identify leaders capable of navigating complex global regulations, market shifts, and major corporate transformations. We reveal the nuances of their candid, trust-based relationships and how these connections foster sound, empathetic advice that elevates high-level executives to new heights.Meet the dedicated team that makes this magic happen, from passionate consultants like Brian Hughes to committed partners like Els De Cremer. Learn about their relentless pursuit of top talent and what drives them to find those hidden gems who inspire, lead with integrity, and drive meaningful change. Don't miss out on understanding how Borderless is not just filling positions but developing relationships that shape the future of business leadership.
March 12, 202511 min
Transforming Careers and Inspiring Change: Rosalie Harrison’s Empowerment Journey with Borderless
What if every career pivot could be a stepping stone to greater success and fulfillment? Join us as we unfold the extraordinary journey of Rosalie Harrison, whose path from pharmacist to top-tier lawyer, and now an executive at a global firm, defies conventional career norms. This episode shares how Rosalie's diverse background in research, sales, and technical writing equipped her with unique skills that propelled her into the legal world, where her keen eye for detail and advocacy shone. Her work across Germany, Belgium, and Italy not only enriched her adaptability but also sharpened her cross-cultural communication, making her an influential leader who thrives on empowering others.Rosalie’s story is a testament to the power of a career mosaic, where each experience builds upon the last, creating a rich tapestry of professional growth and impact. As a partner at Borderless Executive Search, she leverages her empathy and commitment to inclusive leadership to help professionals and teams unlock their potential. Tune in to hear how Rosalie’s dedication to meaningful feedback and resource-sharing makes her a standout leader who inspires positive change. If you’re searching for a narrative filled with courage, open-mindedness, and a genuine passion for uplifting others, this episode is your perfect listen.
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