Global executive network
ABOUT US
our purpose
- Foster international collaboration and exchange among executive leaders.
- Develop innovative and practical solutions for current and future challenges facing the global promotional products industry.
- Strengthen cross-industry partnerships and identify emerging business opportunities.
- Promote responsible growth through sustainability, ethics, and long-term value creation.
- Encourage knowledge sharing, mentorship, and mutual support among members.
Membership Principles
Membership is by invitation and reserved for:
- Chief Executive Officers, Founders, Presidents, Managing Directors, and senior decision-makers.
- Leaders with a proven commitment to innovation, global strategy, and industry development.
- Executives who actively contribute knowledge and value to the network.
- Individuals who uphold the highest standards of integrity and collaboration.
Core Values
Value
Definition
Integrity & Trust
We act with honesty and transparency. Confidentiality is guaranteed in all exchanges.
Collaboration & Unity
We solve complex challenges together through mutual respect and shared expertise.
Innovation & Progress
We actively explore new strategies, technologies, and market opportunities.
Global Responsibility
We foster ethical leadership, sustainability, and positive impact across markets.
Excellence & Professionalism
We strive for excellence in business conduct, strategy, and decision-making.
Diversity of Thought
We value different perspectives, cultures, and market realities.
Commitment & Contribution
Every member contributes actively to the network’s growth and purpose.
Confidentiality
Discussions and shared strategies remain strictly private within the network.
Strategic Focus Areas
The network is dedicated to advancing:
- Sustainable supply chains and responsible sourcing.
- Digital transformation including AI, automation, and e-commerce.
- Global standards in quality, compliance, and ESG accountability.
- Brand evolution and consumer trends in B2B and retail.
- Cross-industry synergies within marketing, logistics, retail, and production.
- Leadership development and talent retention strategies.
Member Commitment
Each member agrees to:
- Actively participate in meetings, forums, and think tanks.
- Share expertise, insights, and best practices.
- Respect cultural differences and promote constructive dialogue.
- Avoid conflicts of interest and unfair competition within the network.
- Protect confidentiality of all shared information.
Collaboration Principles
The network functions through:
- Roundtable dialogues on global challenges and solutions.
- Strategy groups focused on industry transformation.
- Executive exchanges fostering cross-border partnerships.
- Innovation projects that generate tangible outcomes.
GXN Global Women’s Leadership Council
Leading with Vision
We are championing diversity and inclusion, as well as empowering female leaders by providing a platform
for mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and professional development.
MEMBERS ALL AROUND THE WORLD
GLOBAL NETWORK
OUR NETWORK AT A GLANCE
LIST OF MEMBERS
our story
on a mission
FROM THE BEGINNING
FOUNDING MEMBER
Corona changed everything. The trade fair industry and many others were virtually shut down to zero within days and weeks. After 13 years as managing director of the PSI trade fair in Düsseldorf, actively accompanying and supporting the global promotional products and marketing industry, I suddenly had to start all over again.
During this time, I spoke a lot with people from the industry and discussed where the journey might take us. One thing was common to all the conversations. Even the CEOs were looking for guidance and exchange.
I was approached from many sides to organize international meetings again. The opportunity to exchange ideas in a network of executives, discuss business, and learn about developments. This gave rise to the idea of an exclusive network that meets in person once a year. Learning, exchanging ideas, networking in an exclusive atmosphere.
The many discussions gave rise to an idea. The idea gave rise to a concept. The concept gave rise to the Global Executive Network, which was founded in January 2022.
The discussion partners from that time were also the first founding members. Without them, GXN would not exist today.
My thanks go to Ralf Oster, Albert van der Veen, Joop van Veelen, Lex van der Bosch, Armin Halfar and Kathrin Stühmeyer, Marcus Sperber, Claus Roeting, Tim Andrews, Steven Baumgärtner, Alex Ullmann, Marc Rugi, Paulo Stricker, Colin Loughran, Alex Turner, Miles Lovegrove, Robin Vogel, and Jo-An Lantz.
It is the people who make up the network
Michael Freter, GXN