Spotlight

Panel

• • Annabella Bassler, CFO Ringier AG & Initiatorin EqualVoice
  • Christian Keller, Managing Director Europe Central, Amazon Web Services
  • Christina Henkel, Chairwoman & CEO, Skyadvisory AG
  • Sandra De Vito, Rechtsanwältin, Managing Partnerin Bratschi AG
  • Nike Möhle, Vice President Communications & Sustainability, Sunrise

Leadership in Focus: When Vision Leads to Structural Change

On March 8th, experts and pioneers gathered at “The Studio” in Zurich to debate the future of management. Under the title “Success Stories of Leadership” – an event initiated by EqualVoice and Plan S Productions – it became clear that modern leadership has evolved far beyond traditional hierarchical tools. The discussion centered on the power of storytelling, the necessity of diversity as a strategic driver, and a historic milestone within the Zurich judiciary.

The venue and bar “The Studio,” located in the Ringier press house, was filled to capacity as Annabella Bassler (CFO of Ringier and initiator of the EqualVoice initiative) and Sandra de Vito (Managing Partner at bratschi AG and co-founder of Plan S Productions) opened the morning. The event sent a clear message: in times of constant change, leadership is the element that provides orientation and builds trust.

A Cinematic Testament to Female Visibility in Law

A particular highlight of the matinee was the screening of the short film “Democracy Talk – Focus Law.” The film documents a minor revolution in the Canton of Zurich: in 2025, for the first time, six of the central key legal institutions were led by women. This constellation serves as a powerful signal for the industry and beyond.

Sandra de Vito, whose initiative behind the film project has made a lasting contribution to the visibility of diversity, explained the deeper intention: it is about normalizing role models and creating visibility for female leadership in sectors that were structurally different for a long time. For the new generation of legal professionals, the image of women at the helm of the judiciary should no longer be an exception but perceived as the standard. The film illustrates how targeted storytelling helps make abstract changes tangible and proves cultural shifts within institutions.

Balancing Assertiveness and Empathy

In the panel discussion moderated by Annabella Bassler, Sandra de Vito reflected on her own career in the legal world. She emphasized the critical importance of finding a balance between “Power and Love” in leadership. To her, leadership means not only the firm implementation of strategies but also the ability to provide interpersonal encouragement.

She vividly described how, during high-pressure phases – such as a demanding year-end closing – it can be essential to support colleagues emotionally and show appreciation. This form of “soft” leadership is a key factor for the long-term resilience and cohesion of a team.

Feedback Culture as a Management Tool

Christian Keller, Managing Director Europe Central at Amazon Web Services, brought a technology-driven perspective to the group. He argued that a modern leadership style requires a high degree of self-reflection.

Keller spoke openly about how he uses systematic feedback from his employees to constantly question and adapt his own style of communication and leadership. In a high-velocity work environment, leadership must remain transparent and capable of learning to ensure the long-term acceptance and motivation of the workforce.

Sustainability as a Litmus Test for Employers

Nike Möhle, Vice President Communications & Sustainability at Sunrise, introduced another vital aspect. She observed a significant shift in the expectations of young professionals. In job interviews today, the company is increasingly being challenged: how serious is the firm’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility?

For the “Next Generation,” a company’s credibility on these issues is a decisive criterion when choosing an employer. Leaders today must prepare for their values and their practical implementation to be critically scrutinized.

Coaching at the Strategic Level

Christina Henkel, Chairwoman and CEO of Skyadvisory AG, shared insights from her experience as an external advisor to executives. As an experienced coach and sparring partner for boards of directors, she emphasized the relevance of “leadership at eye level.” In top management bodies, the goal is to create a form of “psychological safety” through open and honest exchange, which is the only way to enable peak performance. Diversity and equality are increasingly recognized here as business-critical factors that directly influence a company’s innovative strength and stability.

The event in Zurich impressively demonstrated that the business world is ready for new narratives about success and management. Both the discussion rounds and the film screening in the fully booked cinema room made one thing clear: leadership comes to life where people have the courage to break new ground and share their experiences transparently.

Source: Stefan Mair