The Strategic Shift: Repositioning GM for Real Influence
January 27, 2026, Fortuna Düsseldorf Stadium (Merkur Spiel-Arena)
Join us for a one-day invite-only workshop for Global Mobility professionals ready to elevate their impact. Through hands-on strategy work, organizational mapping, and LEGO® Serious Play®, participants will explore how to reposition GM from operations to true strategic influence. Hosted exclusively with LOHR + COMPANY (L+C), this session combines expert facilitation, peer exchange, and practical tools to drive real-world change, starting the moment you return to work.
About
Repositioning GM for Real Influence
This workshop is designed for Global Mobility and International HRM professionals who want to reposition their function for real strategic influence. In a focused, hands-on day, we explore how GM can move beyond operations and align more closely with business priorities, especially in complex organizational structures. You will work through real-world challenges, reflect with peers, and leave with a clear, personalized strategy blueprint to elevate GM’s role in your organization.
16
Participants max
Ensuring a focused and engaging environment for personalized learning and meaningful interactions.
8
Hours of In-Depth Learning
Dive deep into Global Mobility trends and strategies with a full day of dedicated content.
1
Great Location
Hosted at the iconic home of Fortuna Düsseldorf, in a private event box for full focus and top experience.
Workshop Process
Through a series of structured, hands-on exercises, participants will individually and collaboratively explore, design, and reflect on actionable strategies to reposition GM for greater strategic impact. The workshop takes place over one focused day, includes a stadium tour and informal networking, and is strictly limited to 16 participants to ensure depth, dialogue, and real connection.
A few words from the organizers
Why this event is for you!
This workshop is for Global Mobility professionals who want to move beyond operational tasks and position their work more strategically. You do not need to have “strategy” in your job title. What matters is that you are curious, reflective, and ready to think differently about how GM contributes to the business.
We understand how easy it is to get caught up in day-to-day delivery. That is why this workshop creates space to step back, make sense of where GM sits in your organization, and explore how to increase its influence.
In one focused day, you will join expert-led sessions, take part in hands-on activities, and exchange ideas with peers who face similar challenges. You will leave with a clear, personal blueprint to help you take the next step in your own context
This is a workshop built on experience, not theory, developed in exclusive partnership with L+C. It is designed to be practical, focused, and genuinely useful. No fluff, no filler, just a sharp, well-structured day to help you make progress.
Bridging Strategy and Organizational Structure
This focused workshop offers Global Mobility professionals a hands-on, experience-driven approach to understanding how GM can move from a supporting function to a true strategic partner. Participants will examine their current strategic positioning within the organization, reflecting on where GM sits today and where it could have greater influence.
The workshop accounts for the organizational context in which Global Mobility operates, particularly the challenges and opportunities that arise in matrixed and cross-functional structures. Through collaborative model-building and group reflection, participants will explore how to better align GM with business priorities and internal dynamics.
Finally, the workshop fosters practical enablement, equipping participants with personalized action plans and strategy blueprints. These are designed to help them translate insight into impact, making tangible progress in repositioning their GM function for real influence, starting immediately within their unique environment.
Our Partner
We are proud to host this workshop in exclusive collaboration with LOHR + COMPANY (L+C), our trusted partner for this edition. Known for their deep expertise and forward-thinking approach, L+C’s Global Mobility Consulting department led by Matthias Hubel brings a unique perspective to the evolving Global Mobility landscape.
Whether in tax consultancy, auditing or legal advice, L+C creates added value for their clients, providing individual and realisable results. L+C’s solution and implementation competence is trusted by listed companies, family businesses, foundations, associations, start-ups and family offices as well as their owners. Their clients benefit not only from the high qualifications and teamwork of their experts, but also from modern auditing and consulting approaches and secure IT-supported process standards.
For international issues, L+C can draw on long-standing personal contacts with carefully selected law firms abroad. L+C stands for advice that is always clear, solution-oriented, legally sound and to the point to ensure client success. Therefore, we are sure that they are the perfect match for this event.
The Venue
The workshop takes place in the L+C Executive Box at MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA, a venue that offers exactly the right mix of privacy, energy, and edge. Set within the home of Fortuna Düsseldorf, a German Football club with rich tradition and history, this exclusive space is designed for clarity and focus, with panoramic views of the pitch serving as a constant reminder that positioning, alignment, and structure matter — on and off the field.
As with all our events, of course we did not choose a generic hotel meeting room. Instead, we picked a place with presence. A space where strategy becomes visible, where conversations go deeper, and where people actually remember what they worked on. There’s something about being in a setting like this that brings a different mindset, sharper, bolder, more connected.
The workshop is hosted in exclusive partnership with L+C, who make this premium space available to a small group of selected participants. To round off the day, we make use of the stadium itself, stepping out for a private tour and closing with informal drinks and networking in a setting that keeps the energy high without losing the focus.
It is an environment that makes you want to think better — and do better. That is exactly why we are there.
What our participants say about the last workshops
Taking time out of a busy schedule is so important and the Workshop was the right place to set personal goals for this year. My favourite activity was using PlaymobilPro and I strongly recommend trying this method if you haven’t done yet. Thank you all for this wonderful event. I am very much looking forward to the next Workshop.
The session in New York was simple yet spot-on, addressing many of the real questions professionals face in this space. I’m especially glad I didn’t miss it, as you focused on one of the most critical aspects—ROI in Global Mobility.
The way you broke down complex ideas into relatable examples made it easy to understand how to communicate the value of strategic investments to leadership. Your practical approach to demonstrating meaningful returns was both refreshing and actionable.
Looking forward to more such engaging sessions and the opportunity to connect again!
The workshop “Charting the Future of Global Mobility” in January 2025 was truly a great event in an inspiring location with many fellow GM colleagues. Highly recommended!
The Agenda
First Half
09:00 | Welcome and Registration
09:30 | Opening Remarks and
Framing the Day
09:45 | LEGO Serious Play® Session I:
Skills Build
10:45 | Coffee Break
11:15 | LEGO Serious Play® Session II:
Reframing Global Mobility for
Strategic Impact
12:30 | Lunch
Second Half
13:30 | Strategic Framing:
From Vision to Action
14:15 | Barriers & Priorities:
Mapping the Path
15:00 | Coffee Break
15:30 | Action Lab:
Your GM Strategy Blueprint
16:30 | Wrap-up and Closing Remarks
17:00 | Stadium Tour
18:00 | Networking and Informal
Discussions with open bar for
further conversations.
Anything else you need to know...
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the workshop. From what to expect to how to prepare, we’ve covered all the details to ensure you’re fully informed and ready to make the most of this experience. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!
Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is for Global Mobility and International HR professionals who want to move beyond the day-to-day and think more strategically about the future of their work. You do not need to be in a senior role or have a background in strategy. What matters is your curiosity, your willingness to challenge the status quo, and your interest in shaping where GM goes next — not just following where it has been. If that sounds like you, you are in the right place.
What will I get out of the workshop?
You will leave with a clear, customized strategy to apply in your own organization. That includes new ways of thinking, practical tools, and a structured playbook to help you turn ideas into action. You will also gain insight into how other companies are tackling similar challenges — and walk away with a clearer sense of where you and your function can add value in the bigger picture.
What makes this workshop different?
Unlike typical training sessions, our workshop combines industry expertise, hands-on exercises, and tailored insights to create a transformative experience that’s directly applicable to your professional journey. So DO NOT expect watching a slide show! It is a hands-on, high-engagement experience with real tools, real discussion, and a strong focus on application. We also use methods like LEGO® Serious Play® to spark creative thinking and build solutions that actually stick.
How do I know if this workshop is right for me?
If you are in GM or International HR and feel like you want to contribute more strategically, this is for you. Whether you are managing processes, leading a team, or advising business partners, you will benefit from stepping back, taking stock, and thinking more boldly about where things are heading. If you like working through challenges with other smart, driven people, you will fit right in.
Is this workshop relevant if I’m not in a senior GM role?
Absolutely! Whether you’re just starting or already in a leadership position, the workshop provides valuable tools and strategies to help you grow and excel at any stage of your career.
What will I leave with?
You will leave with practical, personalized ideas tailored to your context. It includes concrete actions, guiding principles, and tools you can use immediately — whether in stakeholder conversations, internal planning, or your own role development. You will also walk away with renewed clarity, a sense of direction, and a stronger peer network to support you going forward.
What do I need to prepare?
Come with an open mind and a willingness to engage. We’ll provide all materials and instructions beforehand to help you get the most out of the experience.
How does this workshop benefit my organization?
The workshop helps you bring structure and strategic thinking back into your team and organization. That means clearer decisions, better stakeholder alignment, and more confidence in what GM should be doing — and why. It also allows you to benchmark your thinking with others and return with insights that go beyond your day-to-day.
What if I’m not satisfied with the workshop?
If something does not land or meet your expectations, we want to know. Our goal is for every participant to feel the workshop was worth their time and attention. If not, we will have an honest conversation and find a solution that works — though, to be fair, we have never had to do that so far.
Is this workshop suitable for HR professionals outside GM?
Yes, especially if you work at the intersection of talent, HR strategy, or international assignments. While GM is the core lens, the thinking and tools apply much more broadly. We often welcome professionals from broader HR backgrounds who are involved in international people topics or change initiatives.
How is this different from other professional development programs?
This is not a traditional training or a passive conference. It is an interactive, highly focused session designed to deliver real strategic output. We use evidence-based tools, peer learning, and expert facilitation to help you think clearly and act with purpose. You will not just listen — you will build, reflect, discuss, and leave with something useful.
What is this workshop not about?
It is not about relocation vendors, compliance updates, or operational checklists. It is about the big picture — how GM fits into business priorities, how it should be structured, and how you can make that happen. If you are looking for a logistics refresher, this is not the right session. If you are looking to elevate GM’s impact, it absolutely is.
What is the cost of the workshop?
This is an invite-only workshop designed for a select group of in-house professionals. Participation is completely free of charge for individuals who meet the criteria and are accepted. There are no hidden costs or strings attached. If you work in a corporate in-house role and are interested in joining, please get in touch directly. We will be happy to provide further details and discuss your fit for the session.
Do you have a hotel recommendation or discounted rate?
Yes, we will provide hotel recommendations close to the venue to participants who are confirmed. These details will be shared after registration to make planning your trip as easy as possible. You are, however, of course absolutely free to choose your own accommodation or not get a hotel at all if you live close by.
Key Benefits
This Workshop Directly Benefits Your Organization and Your Career
Personal Growth
Cultivate self-awareness and personal development by better understanding and leveraging your strengths.
Efficiency Gain
Streamline your Global Mobility processes and approach, saving time and effort in your daily responsibilities.
Increased Visibility
Gain recognition by aligning your efforts with key business goals, making your contributions more visible.
Adaptability
Equip yourself with the skills to adapt quickly to changes in the Global Mobility landscape and make best use of the upcoming trends.
Career Advancement
Boost your professional growth by acquiring skills that position you as a leader in your field. When you drive organizational success, you succeed as well.
Strategic Impact
Enhance your confidence and ability to influence organizational strategy and decision-making within Global Mobility.
Actionable Plans
Leave with a clear roadmap and actionable steps tailored to your professional context. Remove the guesswork from the next steps and derive a solid plan.
Leadership Skills
Enhance your leadership abilities and learn to guide teams through strategic changes in order to best leverage the trends relevant for your organization.
Problem-Solving Skills
Develop innovative solutions to complex Global Mobility challenges through guided, interactive exercises.
Get in touch for more information!
Your Workshop Facilitators
Benjamin Bader and Stefan Remhof will be leading this workshop as a joint offering of MasteringGM® and the People Mobility Alliance, together with their exclusive partner L+C, represented by Matthias Hubel. With their combined expertise in Global Mobility and HR management, they bring deep insights and innovative approaches to the table. By pooling their knowledge, they ensure a top-notch event, offering you the very best in industry trends, strategies, and personalized development.
Benjamin Bader
Co-Founder MasteringGM®
Ben, Co-Founder of MasteringGM® and Professor in International Human Resource Management, blends advanced academic insights with global HR management experience. A recognized expert and innovative educator, he’s shaped Global Mobility through teaching, consulting, and thought leadership. Ben is a certified LEGO® Serious Play® Advanced Systems Facilitator. His work has been featured e.g., on CNN, Reuters, ARD Tagesschau, and other media outlets.
Stefan Remhof
Managing Partner People Mobility Alliance
Stefan is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of the People Mobility Alliance. He is Professor in International Management and Guest Lecturer in various MBA courses related to International Human Resource Management. His expertise lies in Global Mobility, Expat Management, Global Mindset and Global Leadership. His work has been featured, among others, in WirtschaftsWoche, Personalführung, Personalwirtschaft, HR Journal and Personalmagazin. Stefan is Certified Member of the Supervisory and Advisory Board.
Matthias Hubel
Head of Global Mobility Consulting L+C
Matthias is leading the Global Mobility Consulting department of L+C. He is a tax advisor and seasoned Global Mobility expert with more than 17 years of professional experience in advising companies on international workforce matters. His work focuses on supporting organizations of all sizes and industries in managing the complexities of cross-border people mobility. With a strong passion for Global Mobility Consulting, Matthias brings both technical expertise and strategic insight to help clients navigate the evolving Global Mobility landscape.
Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.
Henry Ford, American Industrialist and FOunder of Ford Motors
Claim your space now before it is too late!
The workshop is strictly limited to 16 participants and once it is full, we will not be able to accept any additional attendees. So act now, before the spaces are gone.