GEOPOLITICS & LEADERSHIP
KEYNOTES
Strategies cannot succeed without solid foundations. These often require a clear-eyed understanding and analysis of the broader political, economic and strategic context in which an individual or organisation is operating.
I have worked at senior levels of government, academia, think-tanks, and both private sector and non-profit organisations. These have given me a deep understanding of international dynamics from a variety of perspectives. I use this to help my clients establish which global trends and events matter to them, and which don’t; if appropriate, we then build scenarios and guiderails within which to operate. This knowledge provides the foundation on which to develop, and stress-test, an effective strategy to steer them and their business forward.
“With her rare combination of experience in government, the private sector and civil society, Xenia has a truly comprehensive understanding of the international context and its impact on business-relevant decision-making."
Sir Robin Niblett, Director, Chatham House 2007-2022
“Xenia's insights during our Tide Risers summit were potent, inspiring, and perspective-shifting. As a panelist she brings the full breadth and depth of her impressive experience and an infectious energy that is as engaging online as it is in person. Our members are still talking about her and we look forward to having her back with us again soon.”
Lara Holliday, CEO, TideRisers
CASE STUDY 1
EXPLORING GLOBAL TRENDS TO INFORM CORPORATE STRATEGY
A global consulting and advisory firm brought me in to support a major client’s strategic review—first with the Executive Team, then the Board. The client needed a clearer view of the external dynamics shaping their operating environment in order to test and sharpen their long-term direction.
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I delivered a keynote exploring the global trends most relevant to their business, including shifting US–China relations, evolving societal attitudes toward ESG, and the future of work. Alongside another geopolitical expert, I set the context for a full-day strategic discussion with the client. I then joined the leadership team for a focused Q&A session, helping them explore how global dynamics might affect their customers, operations, and long-term profitability.
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The result was a more informed, outward-looking strategy conversation. By grounding internal decisions in an external frame, the Executive Team and Board were able to surface key risks, identify opportunity areas, and approach strategic alignment with greater clarity and confidence.
CASE STUDY 2
ALIGNING CULTURE AND STRATEGY POST-MERGER
Following the merger of three companies, a client sought to bring its senior leaders onto a shared page—operationally, culturally, and strategically. Their goal was to start with the external context and build toward a stronger, more unified internal culture.
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I opened the session with a keynote outlining the key geopolitical and economic shifts affecting their sector. That set the stage for a dynamic, on-stage dialogue with the CEO, where we explored practical implications for the business and leadership priorities for the newly combined organisation. I concluded the session with reflections that distilled the discussion and highlighted the common ground emerging across teams.
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The session sparked fresh energy and alignment. Participants from different legacy businesses began to see their place in a larger story—one shaped by external realities and a shared commitment to future strategy. The conversation helped shift mindsets from merger integration to collective momentum.