With our new blog format ‘IN PERSoN’, we are shining a spotlight on the interim managers who work for Top50! AG and achieve great things. Through their unique expertise, tireless commitment and impressive life journeys, they make a decisive contribution to the success of companies.
Heike Linnemann, an impressive woman who has been guiding companies through transformations for over two decades, leaving a lasting mark, will kick off the series. From international management positions in the consumer goods industry to strategic growth and innovative brand realignment, Heike Linnemann has proven what passion and expertise can achieve. But she is not just a strategist, she is also a person whose positive attitude and authenticity characterise her leadership style.
- Thank you Heike for the interview, please introduce yourself briefly.
I was successful in the international consumer goods industry for 20 years. Right after university, I started at Cosmopolitan Cosmetics in London. After two years, I moved to Procter & Gamble, where I reached the position of Senior Director. Later, I was appointed Brand General Manager (CMO) at KIKO Milano. Here I was part of the management team that achieved the business turnaround and made KIKO Milano the third fastest growing cosmetics company worldwide in 2022. This is one of four business transformations I have carried out in my career.
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Why are you an interim manager today?
When I became a mother, I was looking for a more flexible way to work that would allow me to apply my full range of experiences and skills.
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What topics do you get called upon for? What is your strength?
I'm brought on board when a company wants to use a brand to drive profitable business growth. My core topics are:
- customer orientation
- brand development
- product and service innovation
- cross-channel communication
- organisational design
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Do you have a ritual that helps you stay focused even in difficult projects?
Several. I think positively, I meditate. I am an enthusiastic outdoor sportswoman and live yoga not only as a sport but also as a philosophy. In short, I have a very positive attitude towards life. This helps me to stay focused even in challenging times.
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Describe your leadership style in 3-5 words.
People-oriented. Because people make the biggest difference.
Communicative
- Transparent
- Doer mentality
- I see strategy and operations as a team
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Is there a particular book, piece of art or experience that has inspired you and particularly shaped or even changed your perspective on the way you work?
The book Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. Its principles have significantly shaped the way I work and contributed to my professional success.
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What do you live for?
My life! I have created a holistic life for myself. Here, my work feels not like work but like creativity. I have a wonderful family, great friends, and I find balance in sports and in being. In short, I enjoy life in all its aspects.
Thank you, Heike, for this exciting insight into your work.
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