Unleashing Innovation In Internal Digital Communications Speakers

Martin Riecken is a corporate communications leader with 25+ years of experience in crisis, internal, and change communications. With a background in tourism and aviation, he has managed major crises, including 9/11, the 2010 ash cloud, and the 2015 Germanwings accident. During COVID-19, he led internal communications at TUI, supporting 60,000 employees through the crisis. Martin has worked with E.ON, Lufthansa, and TUI, and holds a master in mass communications, business, and politics.

A highly accomplished communication leader with a rich experience in strategic planning, crisis management, and driving employee engagement across multiple regions. Known for navigating complex organizational structures, fostering seamless communication between global HQ and diverse regional teams, and ensuring operational agility in dynamic, fast-paced environments. I specialize in aligning communication strategies with business objectives, delivering impactful content that enhances brand reputation, and driving employee engagement that strengthens company Cu

Simon currently is the Global Change Management lead Smart Manufacturing within Cargill. In his role Simon is responsible for engagement & communication within the smart manufacturing practitioner community and the wider 100+ factory network (focused on food ingredient production). Simon holds a MSc in Organizational Psychology and has a background in consulting mostly in Change, Communication & Learning oriented transformation programs. In the last five years Simon mostly worked in change & transformation roles, both acquisition integration as divestments & integration. With a curiosity in people, engagement & technology trends Simon loves to bridge the gap between the shopfloor, different enterprise functions. teams & latest engagement tactics.

Pete is a modern workplace / new-ways-of-working obsessive and evangelist. He is committed to helping people, teams and organisations become better at communication and collaboration. With over 15 years international experience across internal communications, change management, digital employee experience and organisational culture, Pete brings a tonne of energy and an innovators perspective to all he does. At SWOOP Analytics Pete helps organisations drive genuine and sustainable change by putting insightful data at the heart of communication, collaboration and transformation efforts.

Elsjede Vries is an organizational psychologist turned Global communications professional. Elsje obtained her MA in Psychology in Amsterdam and her MA in Business Management in Leiden, The Netherlands. She has spent her professional career working internationally for global corporations, specializing in leading global communication teams and strategic communication initiatives through organizational transformations. As a trusted advisor to executive leaders, Elsje serves as an enabler of an engaged workforce by helpingto connect bridging a company's strategy to measurable individual and team contributions. Her passion is to inspire and connect people, teams and communities and to be a catalyst for strong organizational cultures. Elsje co-leads the DE&Iefforts for the inclusion of women in leadership positions through leading a women'smentorship program called The Collective.

Julita Davies is a senior executive with over 20 years of international experience across marketing, communications, project management, and capability building. As Performance Director for Global Communications and Brand at Philips, she leads strategic initiatives to elevate team performance, build organizational capability, and drive operational excellence. Julita has a strong track record in delivering large-scale digital programs, steering organizational transformations, and implementing effective change across global teams. Known for translating business needs into executable strategies, she collaborates closely with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to deliver impact and foster team alignment. A confident communicator and brand ambassador, she excels at engaging stakeholders and building high-performing teams. Julita is passionate about mentoring emerging talent and creating inclusive, performance-driven environments. She is also a seasoned speaker, regularly sharing her insights at international business conferences and leadership summits.

Virag Szabo is the Communications and Employee Engagement Director at Prosus, where she shapes and delivers global internal communications that bring people together, elevate culture, and strengthen the company’s reputation in 100+ markets. With two decades of experience in both corporate and agency settings, she has built her career on making complex stories feel personal and accessible—whether through leadership narratives, change-management campaigns, or digital content that drives real connection. At Shell, she led integrated stakeholder programs across upstream and integrated gas divisions; at Bayer’s Crop Science division, she crafted communications that bridged the gap between agri-innovation and everyday growers; and at Hill & Knowlton, she advised on reputation management and crisis response for global clients.

is the Head of Corporate Messages and Campaigns at CNH, leading an international team responsible for shaping and delivering impactful messaging, publications, and campaigns on a global scale. Reporting to the Chief Communications Officer, Stefania ensures that CNH’s voice resonates both internally and externally with clarity and purpose. With 25 years of experience in communication across major international companies, Stefania has cultivated deep expertise across a broad spectrum of disciplines, including strategic messaging, employee engagement, and corporate branding. Her journey began at Fiat Group Corporate University before advancing through key roles at Iveco’s Internal Communication department and Iveco Bus in France, where she successfully established their internal communication function. Returning to Italy, she spearheaded Training & Internal Communication at FPT Industrial before taking on strategic leadership roles at CNH Industrial. Notably, she led the internal communication campaign for the spin-off of Iveco Group, showcasing her ability to navigate complex organizational transitions with precision and impact.

Danny Schwarze is a seasoned communications professional with more than 13 years of experience in both corporate and consulting environments. He is currently Head of Global Newsroom and Executive Communications at BSH Home Appliances Group, responsible for editorial collaboration across all communications disciplines, as well as internal strategy and executive communications. Danny is passionate about the future of communications, particularly the integration of AI, the importance of empathetic leadership and maintaining organizational integrity. He is committed to fostering an environment where teams can thrive and effectively tell their organization’s story.

Robin is the Director General for the Federation of European Data & Marketing (FEDMA). He carries a strong background in communication and public relations, spanning from the private, non-profit and institutional spheres. He previously worked in the field of human rights with Euromed Rights, the ONE Campaign and the United Nations. Robin is also the Vice-Chair of the Board of the European Interactive Digital Advertising Alliance (EDAA) and the Chair & Spokesperson of Democrats Abroad Belgium, the international arm of the US Democratic Party.

Aletta van Asperen is a senior communications innovation expert with a rich experience in the field of digital communications, internal comms, content and digital employee experience. She enjoys working in complex organisations towards the next big goal. Also likes to bring people from different backgrounds and different geographies together to deliver great results. Experienced in working in agile, dynamic environments. Skilled in international and multi-stakeholder projects, curious and always likes to take on new challenges.

Nadia Duinker is the founder of Freedom Ville, an eco-boutique retreat in Portugal, where leaders and teams reconnect with nature, creativity, and purpose. With expertise in entrepreneurship, event curation, and hospitality, she designs transformative retreats focused on regenerative leadership and team growth. At Global Executive Events Amsterdam, Nadia will present Freedom Ville’s bespoke business retreats, helping companies foster innovation, sustainability, and stronger team dynamics. Her work bridges culture, commerce, and consciousness, redefining corporate retreats for the future of leadership.

Maja Räger has been with bonprix since 2016, where she built and internationalized the internal communication strategy. Since October 2023, she leads as Head of Corporate Communications & Employer Branding, focusing on integration and employer attractiveness. Previously, she held roles at Schickler and EOS, worked as a communications consultant, and lectured at Quadriga Media Berlin. Maja is passionate about impactful communication and workplace culture.

is an experienced Corporate Communications Manager at Henkel, where she drives data-based internal communications on internal channels. Her work focuses on transforming how employees engage with corporate strategy through globally scalable communication initiatives. She spearheaded Henkel’s multi-channel “Content Booster Strategy,” recognized externally for its innovation and impact. With a strong track record in campaign development, performance analytics, and channel strategy, she bridges content, culture, and business objectives. Her previous roles in financial services and digital agencies bring a sharp digital edge and agile mindset to her work. A global communicator at heart, she has delivered impactful projects across regions, including a recent assignment in Dubai.

Originally coming from a journalistic background, holding a diploma in economics and political science, Petra Schäfer started her career as a business editor with the leading newspaper “Handelsblatt”. She worked for TV stations and the leading weekly newspaper “Die Zeit”, when changing perspectives as she entered communications and PR. Petra pursued different roles in Corporate Communications of stock-listed wholesale and retail group METRO AG. In 2017, she changed industries and started with the leading polymer company Covestro AG. There, she is co-lead of the Communications newsroom and in the global role of Head of Corporate Messaging & Content. Together with her family, Petra is based in Cologne, Germany.

Tanja Kliphuis (1969) is a creative, versatile and straightforward senior communications professional with a strong background in marketing and expertise in both internal and external communication. Tanja began her career at Rabobank as a management trainee in 1992 and has since held various roles in Account Management, Product Development, Marketing, and Communications. She has gained experience in brand identity, sustainability, issue management crisis and transformation communication and internal branding campaigns. In 2024, she completed a Master of Science (MSc) in Corporate Communication at the Erasmus University, Rotterdam. For her thesis, she studied the ways in which sustainability can be integrated into business operations, and what the role internal communications plays in this process.

Jacqueline is Chief of Staff at Circus Group, a food tech company specializing in robotics and AI, where she drives strategic execution and communications. With 17 years of experience in the aerospace industry, Jacqueline has held roles across finance, logistics, and communications at Airbus and Lilium, including serving as Chief of Staff and Head of Internal Communications. She holds an MBA in Digital Transformation Management and is an executive coach currently completing the INSEAD Executive Coaching Programme. Her career includes leadership roles such as Head of Logistics Operations for the USA and China, and A320 Family Communications Manager at Airbus.

As the Digital Lead for Climate Resilience at Haskoning, Micheline Hounjet leveraged her expertise in serious gaming to develop digital portfolios that guide sustainable ideas from development to application. She has worked on impactful projects like Levee Patroller, the Process Accelerator Game, and tools for stakeholder participation such as STAIN and 3DExpo. Micheline's strong ability to visualize ideas ensures that potential developments are accessible to both engineers and stakeholders. She also contributes to the development of modelling and calculation software, such as PaCE within the digital dike reinforcement platform. In her current role as Lead Digital Skills and Development she organises the International Digital Skills Program at Haskoning. This program encourages young engineers to collaborate on digital challenges, develop their digital talents, and progress towards their end results. Micheline guides participants in their journey, fostering an environment of creativity and innovation. Building further upon this success, a special senior Digital Success Programme has been created as well.

Laura is a senior leader with solid experience and success in building and enhancing the HR function for higher impact within global organisations. As a line manager I focus on realising the people and technology value-case in the business, and on optimising workplaces and HR operating models with a global impact. With my experience of both IT and HR in complex, technical environments, I drive the people part of the digital transformation journey of the organisation further. Enabling organisations to transform, from developing their business strategies through to realising the talent-agenda, my unique skills include the depth and variety of both HR optimisation and transformation programs, as well as digital HR journeys and leading departments in Director positions.

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Nikki Kimpel is the Global Internal Communications Manager for the Ice Cream division at Unilever, where she draws on seven years of experience across Marketing, Commerce, and HR to foster impactful internal engagement. In the midst of Unilever’s demerger of its Ice Cream business, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth transition for the 19,000 employees moving to The Magnum Ice Cream Company. Nikki is deeply committed to building inclusive communities that support every employee—from factory line-workers to executives.

Maria brings 9 years of hands-on experience crafting meaningful internal communication strategies. With a background in literary translation, she has a passion for storytelling and knows how to get a message across. At Swiss Re Slovakia, Maria takes an active role beyond her core responsibilities—she is a member of the Philanthropy Committee and the founder of the Art Club. Her work centers on fostering employee engagement not just through business communications, but also by building a strong, inclusive workplace culture. Maria believes that meaningful internal experiences are key to creating motivated, connected teams.

With 15+ years of B2B and B2C experience, I’m a globally minded, results-driven marketing leader who thrives at the intersection of business strategy and digital transformation. As Global Leader, Martech at IFF, I launched the company’s first customer-first platform, introducing a bold new business model in just 10 months. I navigate complex, matrixed environments to drive both cultural and commercial change. I don’t just spot opportunities, I build them. From digital ecosystems to talent programs, I lead initiatives that unlock human and business potential. Empowered people create exceptional customer experiences. Full stop. Beyond the boardroom, I launched the flavour industry’s first in-classroom programme with underserved students in the UK and South Africa, because reaching for the stars shouldn't be reserved for corporates alone. A big supporter of start-ups, I’ve also scaled two food ventures in recent years - An award-winning tea, herbs & spices business, and a co-launched rum brand with African flair.

Eljona Fagu, is born and raised in Albania, brings a bold, curious, and empathetic approach to her work. With over a decade of experience in the IT industry and a strong foundation in software engineering, she has developed into a creative, people-oriented tech leader. She is Chapter Lead at ING Netherlands, in platforms and automation domain. She is passionate about fostering collaboration and believes empathy and creativity are at the core of meaningful teamwork and impactful innovation.

Maddeleen is Internal Communications Coordinator at Picnic, where she ensures that over 20,000 employees and 500+ team leads stay informed, engaged, and empowered to perform at their best. She develops internal campaigns and creates content that connects teams and shows Picnic's inspiring culture. Together with the International Communications & Engagement team, she works toward the ultimate goal: making Picnic the best place to work. Previously, Maddeleen worked at Coolblue and Student Experience, and spent 1.5 years as a digital nomad traveling through Southeast Asia while working remotely for StaffTraveler.

Nicole leads all international Recruitment Communications at Picnic Technologies since 2022. She's responsible for promoting the employee referral program, which helped hire over 3,000 employees last year. She specializes in digital communications, email marketing, and innovation, and is currently researching how AI and WhatsApp can enhance the employee journey from recruitment to onboarding. Before joining Picnic, she gained experience in both internal and external communications roles in Colombia and Mexico, and worked within the HR Communications department at Signify (formerly Philips Lighting).

Janine Krönung has been driving transformation long before it was trending on LinkedIn. With a background in communication science and an MBA in her back pocket, she brings 20+ years of experience in leading strategic internal communication for some of the world’s most complex and change-hungry organizations, from the global finance world at ING to industrial innovation at AkzoNobel. Her specialty is helping companies turn bold strategies into trusted realities. Janine has advised CxOs through mergers, crises, cultural overhauls, and purpose pivots, always with a focus on human connection over corporate jargon. Today, she’s bringing that expertise to the next frontier: launching the BeNeLux branch of MontuaPartner Communications, one of DACH’s leading consultancies for communication, culture, and transformation. Janine’s sessions blend data, storytelling, and honesty, and she’s not afraid to challenge your digital-first mindset. Because she knows: platforms don’t drive transformation. People do.

Mieray Arotine is Head of Global Sales at Happeo, where she leads international sales strategy and drives product adoption in a competitive SaaS landscape. With over seven years of experience across Solutions Consulting and B2B Sales, she brings a consultative, client-first approach; helping organizations identify needs, build business cases, and implement solutions that create lasting impact. Mieray holds a Master’s in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Royal Holloway, University of London, where she explored digital transformation frameworks in modern businesses. Passionate about the role of technology in shaping the future of work, she focuses on aligning solutions with real-world challenges to empower teams and accelerate change from within.

A versatile creative with over a decade of experience in the sports industry, Richard is now bringing that energy and storytelling expertise into the world of internal communications. Specialising in the development of creative concepts for editorial and commercial content, Richard has a proven track record of crafting engaging narratives that connect employees to brand values and culture. With additional experience in brand campaigns and social media management, they bring a fresh, audience-first perspective to internal comms strategies that inspire, inform, and unite teams.

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