In a recent episode of Fortune’s Leadership Next podcast, host Diane Brady interviews Christian Klein, the youngest CEO in the Fortune 500, who leads SAP. Klein discusses his five years as CEO, the challenges of transforming a company, and the impact of technology on business. He emphasizes the importance of not just implementing new technology but also changing how people work and the culture of the company.
Klein mentions the need for regulatory balance in driving innovation, especially in the European market, where overregulation can hinder progress. He points out the importance of cultural differences between regions and the need for a unified approach within the European Union.
The conversation delves into how technology, particularly AI, is transforming SAP and its customers’ businesses. Klein highlights the potential for AI to optimize operations, enhance sustainability efforts, and drive cost savings. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of automation in the workplace, emphasizing the need for communication, training, and enablement to navigate the changes effectively.
Klein reflects on his leadership journey, the importance of diversity of perspectives, and the impact of international collaborations on his leadership style. He also touches on the future direction of SAP, focusing on quantum computing, sustainability tracking, and self-automation as key areas of growth.
Overall, the interview provides insights into Klein’s leadership style, the future direction of SAP, and the importance of embracing technology, diversity, and global collaboration in driving business transformation. The episode underscores the need for adaptive leadership in a rapidly changing business landscape.
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Photo credit fortune.com
