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About me

I am a results-driven CEO, Startup Advisor, and Author.

With my cross-cultural competence spanning Asia, Africa, North America, and Europe, I possess a unique perspective and the ability to think creatively, resulting in innovative solutions for my clients. My exceptional leadership skills have been honed through diverse experiences, including my recent role as CEO at Peak Porter AD (a warehouse robotics general contractor), where I navigated the intersection of automation and technology. Previously, I held executive positions in German start-ups such as VP Operations at Arive GmbH (luxury quick commerce retail sector) and served as Global Head of Supply Chain and Logistics at Gorillas GmbH (fast-moving consumer goods industry). Additionally, I demonstrated operational expertise as the Head of Operations at Zalando SE (a publicly traded fashion retail e-commerce company).

I combine various executive roles with a solid educational foundation, holding an MBA degree from the Frankfurt School of Finance in Germany and a Bachelor’s degree from the Dalian University of Technology in China. My pragmatic approach is backed by Black Belt Lean Six Sigma Certifications, Associate Certified Coach Degree, and further education in leadership and venture-building from renowned institutions such as MIT, Harvard, and CEIBS. My expertise has been recognized by esteemed organizations, including being a member of the Forbes Business Council, the 2Hearts European Tech Community, and the Tech Open Air Berlin Startup Community.

Driven by belief in the power of aligning personal and professional values, I am dedicated to helping executives and entrepreneurs create purpose-driven businesses. My articles and talks on leadership and organizational culture have resonated with audiences seeking practical insights into business management. Explore this website’s blog posts to learn more.

Discover useful resources:

Lean Six Sigma Process Improvement essentials (download a pdf example) 6-hour self-developed training

Recent Posts

- Women, Men and Management Styles
  The impact of differences in thinking between men and women on life, business, and personal spheres is well-documented, as famously depicted in John Gray’s book, “Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus.” Women make up half of the world’s population and are an invaluable resource, and driving force, and must be given equal opportunities to succeed in business. However, the reality is that the majority of managers, business owners, and politicians are men, and women are often relegated to lower and middle management positions. According to studies, women hold 4 out of 10 middle management positions and 3 out of 10 senior management positions, indicating a gender gap that exists in many countries around the world. Despite some countries having a higher proportion of women in leadership positions, such as Russia and Indonesia, others, including Japan and Argentina, have a much lower percentage. The differences between the thinking patterns of men and women contribute to this inequality. Men are typically results-oriented, seeking achievement and demonstrating their strength and business acumen through competition. In contrast, women prioritize human relationships, communication, and empathy.Women are often more interested in psychology and understanding human relationships, while men prefer news, sports, and business. Men value self-sufficiency and independence, while women seek support and assistance from others. These differences in thinking often lead to conflicts in mixed teams, where women may be perceived as trying to “fix” men, while men may feel their independence is being questioned. To motivate women, it is essential to focus on relationships, respect, and recognition, while men prioritize career growth and achievement. Here are some additional examples of how differences in thinking between men and women can impact various aspects of life: Communication Styles: Men and women have different communication styles, which can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. Women often use more indirect language and focus on building relationships through communication, while men tend to use more direct language and focus on achieving specific goals. For example, a woman might use nonverbal cues to express her feelings, while a man might use straightforward language to express his opinions.Decision-Making: Men and women also have different decision-making styles. Women tend to take a more collaborative approach, seeking input from others before making a decision, while men tend to make decisions more independently. This can lead to conflicts in a team setting, where women may feel their ideas are not being heard, while men may feel their authority is being challenged.Leadership Styles: Men and women also have different leadership styles. Women tend to be more collaborative, empathetic, and focused on building relationships, while men tend to be more assertive, competitive, and focused on achieving results. This can impact the way teams function and can also impact the perception of female leaders, who may be seen as less competent or less effective than their male counterparts.Work-Life Balance: Men and women also have different priorities when it comes to work-life balance. Women often prioritize family and personal relationships, while men tend to prioritize career and financial success. This can lead to conflicts in a relationship, where one partner may feel that the other is not prioritizing their needs and wants.Emotional Expression: Men and women also have different ways of expressing emotions. Women tend to be more expressive and willing to talk about their emotions, while men may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed about expressing their feelings. The different thinking patterns between men and women can create misunderstandings and conflicts, but recognizing and appreciating these differences can lead to more effective teamwork and equal opportunities for success.... Read more...
- Building Your Powerhouse Network: How to Get into a Community that Boosts Personal Growth
  In today’s fast-paced world, personal growth is more important than ever. The quest for self-improvement and the desire to unlock our full potential is something many of us share. However, sometimes the people around us might not be as supportive as we need them to be. This can limit our progress and make us feel stuck. If you’re looking for a community that will boost your personal growth, this article is for you. We will share tips on how to build a powerhouse network and find people who will encourage and believe in you. Let’s dive in! 1. Identify your goals and values Before you start looking for a community to join, it’s essential to clarify your goals and values. What do you want to achieve in life? What are your core principles? Having a clear understanding of these aspects will help you find like-minded individuals and communities that share your vision. 2. Research different communities and networks There are countless communities out there focused on personal growth and self-improvement. You can start by researching online forums, social media groups, and local meetups. Look for communities that align with your goals, values, and interests. Keep in mind that the size and structure of a community may vary; some may be large and formal, while others are small and intimate. 3. Attend events and engage with others Once you’ve found a community that interests you, attend their events and engage with the members. This will give you a better understanding of the group’s dynamics and help you decide if it’s the right fit for you. Be open-minded, ask questions, and listen attentively to what others have to say. 4. Contribute and add value When joining a community, it’s essential to contribute and add value. Share your experiences, knowledge, and resources with the group. This will not only help others grow but also establish you as a valuable member of the community. 5. Network intentionally and authentically Networking is key when it comes to building a strong support system. However, it’s essential to network intentionally and authentically. Connect with people who genuinely interest you and with whom you can form a meaningful relationship. Don’t be afraid to reach out and initiate conversations, but remember that it’s a two-way street – be open to helping others as well. 6. Be patient and persistent Finding the right community and building a strong network takes time and effort. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a while to find the right group or make meaningful connections. Be patient and persistent in your search, and eventually, you’ll find a community that will support and encourage your personal growth. 7. Nurture your relationships Once you’ve found your community and made connections, it’s essential to nurture those relationships. Regularly engage with your network, offer help and support when needed, and show genuine interest in their lives. This will create lasting bonds and solidify your support system. Conclusion: Finding a community that boosts your personal growth is a powerful way to ensure that you reach your full potential. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can build a powerhouse network of supportive, like-minded individuals who believe in you and your goals. Remember to be patient, authentic, and open to growth – and watch as your personal development skyrockets alongside those in your new community. Hope you enjoyed reading it! Looking forward to your comments and feedbacks. Very truly yours, ILona B. Schukina... Read more...

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