Follow the Leaders

When I returned from my first around-the world trip, which was always childhood dream of mine, I had the opportunity to experience hands-on my leadership competences in China, India, the Middle East and Singapore. There is no doubt in my mind that the “expatriate” model, sending Headquarter personal in a different country, is over.

 

When I compare my recent global leadership experience with my knowledge of Europe, where I developed most of my career, the contrast is strong and come mostly in three forms

 

• The sense of urgency to grow one’s career is greater. Talent in the new world has no time to waste. They have been on the sidelines too long, watching the growth of the modern economies. They are now part of the global game and want to be at par with their peers abroad.
• The decision-making approach is credible when it is collaborative and participatory. Culturally, business practices are very different in every country. Even in Europe, I see a lot of contrast.
• Validating knowledge is capital. I was fascinated to see how inclined to learning and development that talent base is. Talents in the new world are hungry for knowledge and invest significant time and resources in training.

 

In essence, I would say that anyone looking at growing a successful global organization will have to adapt its leadership skills and focus on leading talent on a fast pace with cooperative approach to decision making, and make learning and development opportunities a priority.

 

Sebastien Tondeur

CEO – Corporate Division

What will the 2008 Olympics bring to the MICE industry in China?

When I landed in China last March, I was extremely surprised by the growth that is taking place in this country. I saw new buildings and road infrastructure which weren’t present the last time I was there. I also happened to glance at the new Bird’s Nest stadium from my taxi on the way to my meeting. Wow! All this for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games!

Yet recently, I was thinking what will the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games do for China’s MICE industry? Will it ultimately create more demand for travel, conferences, incentives and meetings? I strongly believe so, and here is what I think:

• China has already build a solid infrastructure in order to accompany the Olympics, which includes hotel capacity and venue space, and this is continuing throughout other major Chinese cities.
• Airport capacity has been added since the last few years in order to accompany an increase in passinger travel and landing slots
• Road and transport infrastructure are improving yearly, with a high speed train connection from Beijing to Shanghai.

However, China will have to cope with a few challenges before it becomes a prime MICE destination, in my opinion. Issues such as tourist visas, air quality as well as the ability for people employeed in the tourist industry to speak English fluently still needs to be addressed.

What are you views on China from a MICE industry point of view?

Sebastien Tondeur
CEO – Corporate Division