In Good Company with Nicolai Tangen

Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and a leading philanthropist, shares his insights on global health and climate change. He discusses the critical role of innovation in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and the urgency of transitioning to renewable energy. Gates also highlights how financial investors can drive corporate sustainability and the importance of health initiatives for child mortality. He emphasizes lifelong learning, the impact of AI on industries, and the need for collaboration to tackle societal inequities.

Nandan Nilekani, co-founder and chairman of Infosys, shares insights from his remarkable career in tech and public service. He delves into the rise of Indian CEOs in the tech sector, emphasizing education and governance as vital for success. Nilekani discusses his pioneering work on digital identity, transforming governance in India. He also highlights the importance of adapting leadership in a digital age, stressing a focus on curiosity and collaboration. His thoughts on managing a vast workforce and maintaining core company values are equally enlightening.

Henry Fernandez, CEO of MSCI, shares his journey from humble beginnings as an immigrant to leading a major index provider. He discusses the pivotal role indices play in market performance and the ongoing challenges of ESG investing, especially in the current US climate. Henry emphasizes the importance of leadership grounded in values and teamwork, while also highlighting career fulfillment through passion and societal impact. His anecdotes reveal a nuanced perspective on the responsibilities of businesses in a rapidly changing world.

Larry Fink, CEO and Chairman of BlackRock, discusses the firm's ascent to becoming the largest asset management company globally. He highlights the importance of long-term investment strategies and stakeholder capitalism. Fink addresses the recent ESG backlash, sharing insights on corporate responsibility and executive compensation. The conversation also touches on the impact of remote work on company culture and the potential of technology, including cryptocurrency, to democratize financial ownership. Leadership authenticity and the value of continuous learning are key themes in Fink's philosophy.

Carolina Dybeck Happe, CFO of General Electric and celebrated as one of the best CFOs globally, shares her operational approach and team-building strategies. She discusses her transformative journey at GE, including a remarkable $90 billion debt reduction during the pandemic. The conversation highlights the critical role of teamwork and innovation in financial management. Carolina also reflects on GE's evolution, emphasizing decentralization and clear communication to tackle emerging challenges while driving sustainability and technological advancements.

Albert Baehny, Chairman of Lonza and Geberit, shares insights from his extensive leadership experience in high-stakes business environments. He offers valuable strategies for new leaders, emphasizing relationship-building and understanding corporate culture. The conversation highlights the significance of corporate culture in success and the role of Swiss business ethics in fostering innovation. Baehny also draws parallels between leadership in challenging times and mountaineering, stressing the importance of teamwork and resilience.

Michael O’Leary, the transformative CEO of Ryanair, shares insights from his journey reshaping the airline since 1994. He reveals the secret sauce behind Ryanair’s success and discusses their response to the pandemic. O’Leary reflects on his upbringing on a farm in Ireland, emphasizing hard work and responsibility. He critiques traditional airport models and explores the challenges of long-haul versus short-haul travel. The conversation concludes with Ryanair's strategic focus on sustainable practices and the importance of adaptability in leadership.

Helena Helmersson, CEO of H&M Group and a sustainability advocate in fashion, shares insights into the changing landscape of the industry. She reveals that the average garment is worn only seven times, prompting a discussion on the need for more sustainable practices. The conversation covers the resurgence of vibrant colors and casual styles post-pandemic, the importance of local influences, and the joy of teamwork in crafting meaningful fashion. Helmersson also emphasizes the healing power of nature and aligning one's career with personal passions.

Bob Chapek, former CEO of Disney, shares his insights on storytelling's profound influence on society. He discusses how Disney fosters emotional connections through its iconic characters and films while emphasizing the brand's role in creating magic for families. Chapek draws parallels between sports and business, showcasing the importance of resilience in overcoming challenges. He also navigates the competitive streaming landscape, highlighting the value of branding and collaboration in creating exceptional content. Leadership lessons and perseverance resonate throughout the conversation.

Mark Schneider, CEO of Nestlé, shares his insights on evolving food trends, particularly in coffee and pet food, reflecting consumer demands for quality and ethics. He discusses Nestlé's commitment to sustainability and tackling pressing issues like childhood obesity and water management. The conversation also touches on the challenges of food inflation and maintaining responsible pricing. Schneider emphasizes the significance of psychological safety and creativity in fostering innovation, along with the vital role of effective communication in large organizations.