Frits van Paasschen, author & former CEO, is a symbol of innovation and resilience in the face of the relentless pace of global change. With a sterling career spanning three decades as a global executive, author of the Amazon best-seller “The Disruptors’ Feast,” and a respected figure in the corporate world, Frits encapsulates the essence of leadership in times of upheaval. His extensive experience within major global corporations equips him with an unparalleled understanding of the forces transforming the global economy, notably climate change, digitisation, and human inequality.
As a keynote speaker, investor, board member, and advisor, Frits dedicates his expertise to guiding organizations through the torrents of rapid evolution, ensuring they not only survive but flourish. His influential positions on the boards of Williams-Sonoma and Royal DSM, as well as his strategic roles in three high-growth unicorns—Convene, citizenM Hotels, and Sonder—highlight his adeptness at steering companies towards remarkable achievements in challenging landscapes.
Frits’s commitment extends beyond the boardroom to pivotal advisory roles with industry giants like TPG Capital and Russell Reynolds Associates, as well as innovative startups such as BigSpring and Jabbrrbox. His diverse portfolio underscores his versatility and forward-thinking approach in nurturing growth and innovation across various sectors.
Before etching his mark as a visionary leader, Frits helmed The Coors Brewing Company and Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide as CEO, spearheaded significant roles at Nike, and contributed his financial acumen to Disney’s Consumer Products Division. His foundational years at Boston Consulting Group and McKinsey & Company laid the groundwork for his exceptional career, focusing on retail and consumer clients and instilling a deep understanding of market dynamics.
Frits’s academic accomplishments, including a BA in Economics and Biology from Amherst College and an MBA from Harvard Business School, where he served as a teaching fellow in economics, complement his professional endeavours. His multicultural heritage and proficiency in five languages, coupled with his visits to nearly 120 countries, enrich his global perspective, making him a truly international leader.
His past roles as a non-executive director at esteemed organisations like Barclays PLC and involvement with advisory boards such as the European-American Industrial Council further showcase his capacity to influence and drive positive change across industries and borders.
In summary, Frits van Paasschen embodies the spirit of resilience, adaptability, and visionary leadership. His remarkable journey through the echelons of global commerce, combined with his insightful analysis of market trends and commitment to fostering innovation, make him an invaluable asset to any discussion on navigating the complexities of today’s global economic landscape.
To book Author, Former CEO of Starwood Hotels and Resorts & Former CEO of Coors Brewing Company Frits van Paasschen for your event, contact Front Row Speakers on +353 1 485 3991 or email welcome@frontrowspeakers.com
”The conference was a great one this year… the finish with Frits was exceptional. I’ve never heard such a buzz as people left the room regarding his fantastic extemporaneous presentation.”
-Carol Turner, Connect’s Executive Director
”Frits van Paasschen draws on his experience as a global business leader to offer advice on how we can prepare ourselves and our institutions to thrive and make sense of a tumultuous world.”
-Arianna Huffington, Co-founder, The Huffington Post
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