Leading Between Worlds: How Swedish Culture Revived My Career – and Redefined My Leadership
In this deeply personal and provocative session, I’ll share how stepping into a leadership role within ASSA ABLOY – a Swedish global organization—challenged everything I thought I knew about success, ambition and growth. It wasn’t just a cultural shift – it was a leadership reset.
Even if you don’t work for an international company, this session offers a powerful perspective on how to cultivate and lead through cultural differences that can redefine your career. We’ll explore Swedish values like consensus-based decision-making, work-life balance, the practice of Fika, and a unique approach to hierarchy, titles, ego and growth.
Young professionals will leave with insights on how to embrace and drive change – even when it doesn’t look like what they expected. You’ll gain tools to lead with humility, communicate with intention and evolve your definition of success. Most importantly, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of how to lead across differences while staying grounded in your values.
Speaker
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Stephenie HaldaneVP of Business Development and Architecture & Engineering Sales, HID GlobalWith over 28 years of experience in building, developing, and leading teams across North America, Stephenie is a visionary leader passionate about empowering teams to achieve excellence, drive innovation, and foster sustainable growth. She currently serves as Vice President of End User Business Development for Physical Access Control at HID, a global leader in security solutions.
Before joining HID, Stephenie led the launch of a new division at ASSA ABLOY Global Solutions, specializing in electronic door locks and access systems for the Senior Living market. Her expertise extends beyond Access Control to RTLS, mobile credentials, new construction, and product development.
Stephenie is dedicated to cultivating high-performing teams that deliver exceptional results, outstanding service, and lasting partnerships. Her strengths include sales leadership, strategic planning, public speaking, and team building.
