The Future of Corporate Learning: How CEOs Can Build a Learning Organization to Enable Transformative Growth – Sharing From a Global Case Study
Friday, 7th February 2025
At this year’s The Future of Corporate Learning, hosted by the Sofitel Saigon Plaza, “How CEOs Can Build a Learning Organization to Enable Transformative Growth – Sharing From a Global Case Study”, we were joined by the following panel:
- Ralf Schneider, Managing Director – Better Business (Speaker)
- Leif Schneider, General Manager – Digital Circles (Speaker)
- Nguyen Tam Thanh, CHRO – Masan Group (Speaker)
- Ewan Clarkson, Future of Work Expert and Chief People Officer (formally PwC China) (Speaker)
- An Vo, Managing Partner – Janus Executive Search & Talent Advisory (Moderator)
The event began with a discussion on the accelerating pace of change and disruption, driven by trends like AI, geopolitics, and technology. The presenter emphasized that this requires companies to build strategic learning capabilities as a key competitive advantage. Learning is not just about skills development, but about enabling organizational agility, innovation, and adaptability to navigate this disruptive environment.
However, the presenter highlighted a disconnect between how companies currently approach learning (focused on operational efficiency) versus the strategic, transformational learning needed for the future. To illustrate this point, the presenter shared a case study on Mercedes-Benz’s 2-year leadership development program. This initiative aimed to build a pool of “change makers” equipped to lead the company’s transformation in areas like electric vehicles and autonomous driving.
The discussion also highlighted the importance of leveraging technology like AI and digital platforms to enable scalable, personalized learning. At the same time, the presenters emphasized the need to ensure ethical and responsible use of these technologies. Key challenges include shifting mindsets, aligning learning to business strategy, and building the right leadership capabilities to drive organizational transformation.
In terms of recommendations, the presenters urged CEOs and CHROs to recalibrate their learning investments, focusing more on “level two” capabilities around innovation, creativity, and soft skills. Unleashing the power of AI while establishing the right governance and guardrails was also emphasized. Ultimately, the presenters stressed the need to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability to prepare organizations for the future.
The event also featured a case study on PwC’s approach to developing a new leadership model, which aimed to inspire, build resilience, and empower employees to drive transformation. This model was co-created with PwC’s global workforce and has become the foundation for talent management and development across the organization.
Overall, the discussion underscored the strategic importance of learning and the need for a holistic, transformational approach to prepare organizations for the disruptive changes ahead.
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