Speciality Sessions

In this episode of Specialty Sessions, host Natasha Klymczuk speaks with Antje Gerber, EVP INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS at Sasol, about the company's transformation in the chemical industry, its South African heritage, and the importance of leadership during challenging times. Antje shares insights on managing change, fostering employee morale, and the need for optimism and realism in leadership. The conversation also touches on the role of chemicals in energy transition and the significance of diverse experiences in leadership roles.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sasol and Antje Gerber
00:51 Sasol's South African Heritage and Global Perspective
02:27 Transformation in the Chemical Industry
04:45 Managing Change and Employee Morale
08:25 Cultural Shifts and Leadership in Transformation
10:49 Balancing Optimism and Realism in Leadership
12:11 Understanding Seysol's Global Impact
13:06 Cultural Differences in Leadership
14:47 Chemicals and Energy Transition
15:37 Leadership Adaptability Across Different Companies
18:51 The Importance of Diverse Experience in Leadership
20:24 Passion for the Chemical Industry
21:28 Future Opportunities in the Chemical Sector
22:42 Advice for the Next Generation in Chemistry

In this episode, Marcus Jordan, CEO of IMCD, shares insights on the importance of distribution careers, the transition from technical to commercial roles, and the value of diverse experiences in building a successful career. He emphasizes the need for enthusiasm in leadership, the role of AI in transforming distribution, and the significance of work-life balance. Marcus encourages young talent to consider distribution as a dynamic and exciting career path, highlighting the industry's agility and the opportunities it presents for future-proofing careers.
Takeaways
People are the biggest asset in any organization.
Distribution offers diverse career opportunities.
Transitioning from technical to commercial roles can be rewarding.
Diverse experiences enhance leadership capabilities.
Managing enthusiasm in teams is crucial for success.
Communication with management is key for career growth.
AI can streamline processes in distribution.
Agility in distribution allows for adaptation to market changes.
Work-life balance is essential for effective leadership.
Encouraging young talent is vital for the industry's future.

Chapters
00:00 Inspiring the Next Generation
04:20 The Value of Distribution Careers
10:37 Transitioning from Technical to Commercial Roles
13:01 The Importance of Diverse Experiences
20:15 Managing Enthusiasm in Leadership
21:21 Navigating Career Changes
22:57 The Role of AI in Distribution
27:13 Future-Proofing Careers in Distribution
28:57 Agility and Team Dynamics
30:20 Work-Life Balance as a Leader
33:12 Encouraging Young Talent in Distribution

In this conversation, Andrew Warmington discusses the contrasting marketing strategies of large corporations and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). He highlights the challenges SMEs face in gaining media coverage compared to bigger players with substantial marketing budgets. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of unique contributions from lesser-known companies in attracting media attention.
Takeaways
- Big players have larger marketing budgets and dedicated teams.
- Editors are interested in featuring unique companies.
- SMEs don't need to struggle to get media coverage.
- Networking at industry shows is crucial to build trade media relationships.
- Unique contributions can attract media interest.
- Editors appreciate new and interesting stories.
- Marketing strategies vary significantly between large and small companies.
- Engagement with media can lead to better coverage for SMEs.

In this episode, Natasha Klymczuk interviews Julia Schlenz, President of Europe, Middle East, Africa, and India at Dow. Julia shares her unique career journey from public relations to the chemical industry, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and psychological safety in leadership. She discusses the challenges and opportunities within the chemical sector, particularly in relation to innovation and regulatory constraints. Julia also highlights the distinctive culture at Dow that fosters integrity and performance, and offers valuable advice for early career talent and her younger self.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Julia Schlenz and Dow
01:56 Career Journey: From Public Relations to Chemicals
05:58 Building Credibility in a Technical Environment
09:58 Evolution of Leadership: From Proving to Supporting
14:01 Creating Psychological Safety in Teams
17:54 Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
21:58 Supporting Early Career Talent
26:02 The Distinctive Culture at Dow
29:57 Opportunities and Challenges in the Chemical Sector
34:03 Innovation and the Future of Chemicals
35:58 Advice to Younger Self

In this conversation, James Clews, Managing Director of Technikraft, discusses the various career paths available, emphasising that there is no singular right choice.
He highlights the advantages of working in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly the flexibility and quick decision-making that come with smaller teams and structures.