In this article, I’ll highlight the key topics companies should focus on in 2025 – and the questions every leadership team should be asking.
1. Artificial Intelligence – Harnessing Potential, Minimizing Risk
Expert: Prof. Dr. Christian Stummeyer, CSP
AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are already part of everyday business – yet many companies are still not using their full potential strategically. At the same time, there are growing concerns about data privacy, sharing, and compliance. Prof. Dr. Christian Stummeyer explains how to implement AI responsibly and securely, and what organizational frameworks are essential.
Management question for 2025: Do you have internal policies in place for using generative AI – and a training plan for your employees?
2. Transhumanism – Soon to Be Business-as-Usual?
Expert: Prof. Dr. med. Bernd Kleine-Gunk
Doubling life expectancy, enhancing brain performance through technology, gene editing – transhumanism is no longer just science fiction, but a fast-growing field with major implications for healthcare, HR, and leadership. Businesses must begin addressing the ethical, societal, and operational consequences of this shift.
Management question for 2025: In which areas is your company already using technology to enhance human capability – and how are you preparing your leadership for this change?
3. Generation Z – New Rules for the Workplace
Expert: Susanne Nickel
Young, confident, demanding – but also emotionally sensitive and easily discouraged: Generation Z is challenging established leadership models. Companies must learn to emotionally engage young talent while still setting clear boundaries. Leadership becomes more of a coaching role.
Management question for 2025: How are you shaping your company culture to ensure that Gen Z feels seen, valued, and willing to stay long term?
4. Leading Like a Captain – Clarity & Resilience in Crisis
Expert: Stefan Kruecken
In stormy times, strong leadership is essential. Stefan Kruecken brings leadership principles from the maritime world into the business realm: responsibility, clear communication, and mental preparation. Those who lead this way create alignment, motivation – and a true team spirit.
Management question for 2025: Do your leaders have a mental crisis plan – or are they still improvising?
5. Putting Sustainability into Practice – Not Just Theory
Expert: Günther Reifer
Climate action, ESG, stakeholder expectations – sustainability must be embedded in corporate strategy and actively managed. Günther Reifer outlines seven clear steps companies can take to move from vision to execution – with KPIs, governance structures, and transparent communication.
Management question for 2025: Do you have a measurable sustainability roadmap – or just loosely connected initiatives?
6. Memory & AI – How We Must Learn to Remember Differently
Expert: Dr. Julia Shaw
Facts, experiences, emotions – our memory is not objective, it’s constructed. This insight is changing personal development, knowledge management, and even change processes. Dr. Julia Shaw combines psychology with digital tools to show how we can consciously shape the way we think, learn, and remember.
Management question for 2025: Is your knowledge management system emotional, digital, and personalized – or outdated?
7. From Fear to Courage – Rethinking Leadership Culture
Expert: Monika Herbstrith-Lappe
Change creates fear – but the future demands courage. With a mix of humor and depth, Monika Herbstrith-Lappe encourages leaders to shift perspectives, recognize opportunities, and manage emotions wisely. Companies that actively promote courage create space for innovation – and resilient teams.
Management question for 2025: Are you cultivating courage and confidence as a leadership principle – or just using them as buzzwords?
Conclusion: The Topics Are Clear – Now All You Need Is the Right Spark
These business trends will shape 2025. But knowledge alone isn’t enough – execution is what counts. Companies need inspiration, real-life experience, and practical guidance to drive meaningful change.
Expert Marketplace: Find the Right Experts for Your Event
At the Expert Marketplace, you'll find over 3,000 verified speakers, trainers, and consultants covering exactly these future-relevant topics. Whether you’re planning a leadership seminar, a kickoff event, or a strategy workshop – here’s where you can find the right minds to empower your team and your clients.
Book experts who inspire – and make 2025 your most successful year yet.
Article by Jana Kulhavy, CEO of Speakers Excellence
