The Leadership Circle

Where Resilience Meets Innovation in a Fast-Changing Landscape.
The C-Suite is facing an unprecedented era of disruption driven by technological advancements, shifting societal values, and evolving market dynamics. To thrive, organisations must adapt and transform, and their leaders must possess the skills and mindset to navigate this new landscape.

Navigating the Complexity of C-Suite Success in a World of Disruptive Change

The C-Suite is at the vanguard of a revolution, and the pace of change is accelerating at an unprecedented rate. In today's fast-paced and rapidly evolving business landscape, C-Suite executives face a multitude of challenges and opportunities that require a new level of leadership agility, resilience, and vision. To thrive, they must be able to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, foster inclusive cultures, prioritise sustainability and ESG, develop adaptive resilience, and unlock the power of diversity and inclusion. In short, they must embrace five critical imperatives that will define success in this new era.

  • Embrace Digital Transformation

C-Suite executives must harness the power of technology to drive innovation, productivity, and growth. This requires a deep understanding of digital dynamics and a willingness to disrupt traditional business models. By embracing digital transformation, leaders can unlock new revenue streams, enhance customer experiences, and stay ahead of the competition.

  • Foster Inclusive Cultures

Leaders must create environments that empower diverse voices, drive social impact, and unlock human potential. This means fostering a culture of belonging, promoting equity, and addressing systemic barriers to inclusion. By doing so, organisations can tap into the full potential of their workforce, drive innovation, and build a stronger, more resilient business.

  • Prioritise Sustainability and ESG

C-Suite executives must integrate environmental, social, and governance considerations into their strategy and operations. This requires a commitment to responsible leadership, a focus on long-term sustainability, and a willingness to address the complex challenges facing our world. By prioritising sustainability and ESG, leaders can build trust, enhance reputation, and drive business success.

  • Develop Adaptive Resilience

Leaders must navigate ambiguity, uncertainty, and disruption with ease and build organisations that can thrive in a rapidly changing world. This requires a high degree of emotional intelligence, a growth mindset, and a willingness to adapt and evolve. By developing adaptive resilience, C-Suite executives can lead with confidence, build strong teams, and drive business success.

  • Unlock the Power of Diversity and Inclusion

C-Suite executives must create cultures that value diversity, promote equity, and drive inclusion to unlock innovation, productivity, and growth. This requires a deep understanding of the complexities of diversity and inclusion, a commitment to addressing systemic barriers, and a willingness to create a culture of belonging. By unlocking the power of diversity and inclusion, leaders can build a stronger, more resilient business and drive success in a rapidly changing world.

The Leadership Capabilities That Matter

To succeed in this new era, C-Suite executives must possess a range of critical leadership capabilities, including strategic vision and foresight, emotional intelligence and empathy, adaptive resilience and agility, and inclusive leadership and cultural competence.

Unlocking Leadership Potential

The C-Suite is at the forefront of a sustainable business future, and the imperatives, capabilities, and leadership qualities outlined above will define success in this new era. At Selion Global, we are committed to helping organisations navigate this disruptive landscape and find the leaders who are shaping the world of tomorrow. Our expertise in leadership advisory services, executive search, and leadership development enables us to support C-Suite executives in building the capabilities and leadership qualities required to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

  • Markus Gfeller
    Japan

    Markus Gfeller is Associate Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global Japan and the Managing Partner of G&S Japan K.K., a leading corporate consulting and retained executive search firm dedicated to supporting European businesses in Japan.

    As a seasoned executive with over 27 years of experience in Japan, Markus has built a distinguished career in international corporate finance, change management, and executive search. His expertise spans from his early days in banking with Credit Suisse to his tenure with BayernLB, where he honed his skills in international corporate finance with a strong focus on Asia.

    Markus's passion for Japan has led him to become fluent in Japanese, enabling him to navigate the complex business landscape with ease. He has taken on various leadership roles, including Managing Director and President positions at HARTING and KABA, where he drove change management initiatives. In 2009, he joined G&S Japan K.K. as Senior Partner and later became the Managing Partner, leading the firm's expansion and growth in Japan.

    Under his leadership, G&S Japan K.K. has become a trusted partner to multinational corporations, providing expert guidance in executive search, market entry, expansion, and change management. Markus's extensive network, cultural understanding, and business acumen make him a highly respected advisor to companies navigating the complex Japanese market.

    Professional Associations:

    • Member of German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (GCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (SCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ICCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Foreign Correspondent’s Club of Japan (FCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Tokyo American Club (TAC), Tokyo

    Others:

    • Former Vice President of the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan

    • President of the Section of Education of the Swiss Club Tokyo

     

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  • Mihai Bajan
    Romania

    Mihai Bajan is a Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global Romania, a seasoned consulting professional with over 15 years of expertise in executive search, HR consulting, and assessment, leveraging his extensive experience to deliver exceptional results for clients, driving business growth and talent development.

    Before joining Selion Global, Mihai co-founded Resolute Advisory, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and vision. His professional journey has spanned multiple industries, including FMCG, Retail, IT&C, Real Estate, and Construction, with senior roles at Profiles International, Stein & Partner, and SHL Talent Measurement from CEB (now Gartner).

    Mihai's expertise encompasses executive search, assessment centres, HR consulting, and business development, and he has a proven track record of success. As a certified professional by the British Psychological Association, he is authorised to utilise various assessment tools, bringing a scientific methodology to his work.

    Known for his pragmatic approach and down-to-earth nature, Mihai has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor in the industry. Outside of his professional pursuits, he is an adventure enthusiast with a passion for motorbiking, reflecting his adventurous spirit and love for exploring new horizons. 

    Given his professional background, he has been hands-on and involved in coordinating all sides of the business from operational, client management and business development. Throughout the years, Mihai gained  significant experience in industries such as FMCG, Retail, IT&C, Real Estate and Construction.

    Mihai is certified by the British Psychological Association and authorized to use various assessment tools. He is a down to earth and pragmatic guy that also values adventure, hence his passion for motorbiking.

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  • Esben Poulsson
    Singapore

    Esben Poulsson is Senior Advisor at Selion Global. He contributes his expertise to several boards, both in the Asia Pacific region and the Nordics. He is the Executive Chairman of ENESEL PTE. LTD. (Singapore) and non-executive Chairman of Cambiaso Risso Asia Pte. Ltd. (Singapore) and Tamar Shipmanagement Ltd. (Hong Kong).

    He also holds Non-Executive Directorships for X-Press Feeders Ltd., (Singapore), Nordic Shipholding A/S, (Copenhagen), Batchfire Resources Pty. Ltd., (Brisbane), Epic Gas Ltd., (Singapore) and Finnlines PLc., (Helsinki).

    On the institutional and policy-making level, Esben serves on the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) board. He is the former Chairman of the London-based International Chamber of Shipping and the immediate past President (2019) of the Singapore Shipping Association. He is an Advisory Panel member of the Singapore Maritime Foundation.

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  • Cecile Hofer
    South East Asia / Singapore / United Kingdom

    Cecile Hofer is a Founder and Global Managing Partner of Selion Global. With a storied career spanning decades and continents, Cecile has established herself as a trusted advisor to C-suite executives, boards, and investors seeking to future-proof their organisations.

    A seasoned management consultant with a profound understanding of the intricacies of human capital, Cecile has cultivated her expertise in C-suite appointments, advisory, and strategic guidance for mid-sized and large corporations, family-owned enterprises, and venture capitalists worldwide. Her extensive experience in board and leadership consulting services has equipped her with a unique understanding of the challenges faced by senior leaders, allowing her to distil complexity into clarity and connect the dots between people, purpose, and profit.

    Cecile's areas of expertise include building and enhancing boards, succession planning, culture and diversity hiring expertise, and senior talent management across various industries. Her ability to identify and develop top talent, advise on strategic leadership initiatives, and foster effective boards and executive teams has earned her a reputation as a trusted confidante to senior leaders.

    Through her leadership, Selion Global Retreats brings together distinguished experts, boards, and business leaders to foster growth, innovation, and collaboration. Her passion for empowering leadership excellence extends beyond her professional pursuits, as she finds inspiration in sports and photography, embracing a philosophy of dynamic living and fostering meaningful connections that resonate

    Cecile has built a reputation as a leader who can navigate complexity, drive results, and inspire others to do the same. Her distinctive strength lies in her ability to discern patterns, connect the dots, and unlock the potential of individuals and organisations alike, fostering sustainable growth and transformation.

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  • Thomas W. Hofer
    South East Asia / Singapore / China

    Thomas Hofer is a Founder and Global Managing Partner of Selion Global, a globally renowned professional services firm in leadership consulting, board advisory and executive search. With decades of extensive experience at the board and senior management levels, Thomas brings a high-level insider perspective to his work. He is highly accomplished in executive search, board consulting, succession planning, and strategic executive talent advisory.

    Thomas has established a reputation for partnering with clients with integrity, agility, discretion, and dedication, fostering enduring relationships with senior management executives and industry insiders worldwide. With a broad span of experience across multiple industries, he is committed to advising clients on informed leadership choices, empowering talented professionals to assume pivotal roles, and guiding them toward insightful decisions that drive success.

    As a former Commanding Officer of a regiment, Thomas brings extensive leadership and management experience, having led four battalions and 2,500 military personnel. He also has a lifelong interest in sports, having voluntarily served as Team Manager of the Swiss National Elite Rowing Team and participated in the World Cup and World Championships during two Olympic Cycles.

    Thomas is passionate about giving back to the community, having served as the Chair of a charity supporting families and children in underprivileged areas and as a Board Member of a Swiss-Indian foundation building schools for slum children. He is a Freeman of the City of London and enjoys visiting his favourite city often.

    As a seasoned professional, Thomas believes in supporting tomorrow's leaders through pro bono mentoring and sharing his expertise. He embraces a philosophy of continuous growth, seeking answers, and unlocking potential. This approach underpins his commitment to delivering exceptional results and making a positive impact in the world of leadership consulting and executive search.

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