Harbors of the Future: GM Value in a new Era
March 25, 2026, Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg, Germany
Join us in Hamburg for an immersive, hands-on workshop that empowers Global Mobility professionals to successfully manage new mobility models, prove strategic value, and anchor their role in the future of work
About
Harbors of the Future: How Global Mobility Anchors Value in the New World of Work
After landmark workshops in the The Gherkin, London, Allianz Arena, Munich, and the Empire State Building in New York, we are now bringing our Global Mobility event to Hamburg. Following our tradition, we picked another stunning and iconic venue, the spectacular Westin in the Elbphilharmonie. This one-of-a-kind workshop explores how GM professionals can thrive in the new world of work by embracing evolving mobility models, proving measurable value, and strengthening stakeholder influence.
Through interactive sessions and experiential learning, you will uncover practical strategies to position GM as a strategic anchor within your organization. From mapping new forms of mobility to creating compelling data-driven stories, the day is designed to equip you with tools, insights, and confidence to demonstrate impact at the highest level. Set against the inspiring backdrop of Hamburg’s iconic port and the Elbphilharmonie — a global symbol of innovation and excellence — the workshop offers a unique environment for reflection, creativity, and collaboration. The day in one of Europe’s most breathtaking venues concludes with networking , ensuring an experience that will leave a lasting mark on both your professional and personal perspective.
18
Participants max
Ensuring a focused and engaging environment for personalized learning and meaningful interactions.
3
Core Themes
Exploring new mobility models, demonstrating value, and mapping stakeholder influence.
1
Inspiring Location
Hosted at right in Elbphilharmonie, overlooking Hamburg’s port and the city skyline.
Workshop Process
Participants will take part in immersive experiential learning that blends individual reflection with group collaboration to develop actionable strategies for demonstrating GM’s value. The workshop spans a full day with dedicated breaks and social elements to foster exchange and reflection. Catering is provided throughout, and to ensure an engaging and productive experience, participation is limited to a select group of 18 professionals.
Intro and Welcome
We set the stage by introducing the Harbors of the Future theme, outlining goals, and connecting participants around the shared challenge of ensuring GM delivers value in the changing world of work.
Exploring New Models
Participants will compare traditional and emerging forms of mobility, uncovering how shifts like remote, hybrid, and short-term assignments reshape the role of GM and open new pathways to impact.
Value in Action
Through interactive exercises facilitated by our team, participants will translate trends and data into practical insights, discovering new ways to demonstrate the measurable business value of mobility.
Shaping the Future
Attendees will engage in a creative, forward-looking activity to envision what the future of mobility could look like, turning abstract challenges into tangible strategies for impact. They will be leaving with their own, individual playbook.
Wrap-Up and Networking
At the end, we consolidate key takeaways into personal action points before transitioning to informal networking, strengthening connections, and extending conversations beyond the workshop.
What Participants of Previous Workshops Say
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!
What I loved about the workshop in London was learning how the HR Business Partner role can truly shift from operational to strategic. One key takeaway was how important it is to use metrics, communicate clearly, and actively share your wins. HRBPs need to advocate for themselves to gain visibility within the organization. Strategic alignment with business goals — especially around continuous improvement, competitiveness, and revenue growth — is essential for making a real impact.
About this Unique Collaboration
MasteringGM® and People Mobility Alliance in 2026
2026 is a year of new horizons for MasteringGM® and the People Mobility Alliance. After sold-out sessions in other European hubs, we are charting a fresh course by bringing our workshop series to Hamburg for the very first time.
Why Hamburg? Because very few other cities combine history, innovation, and global reach quite like this one. The Elbphilharmonie, rising above the port and Speicherstadt, is a symbol of connection and ambition — the perfect stage to explore how Global Mobility can anchor value in the future of work.
And, of course, this event is not a repeat of what has gone before. It is a new opportunity to test ideas, build strategies, and create tangible playbooks that reflect the evolving world of mobility. By combining MasteringGM®’s tools and methodologies with the People Mobility Alliance’s network and insights, we aim to give participants more than inspiration: we aim to deliver direction.
For the first time in Hamburg, we invite you to be part of this journey, to experiment, to collaborate, and to leave with a clear sense of how GM can thrive in the years ahead.
The Workshop's Strategic Intersections
This experiential learning workshop is designed to equip GM professionals with the skills to succeed in times of changing forms of mobility. From remote and hybrid work to short-term and project-based moves, GM is evolving. By rethinking traditional assignment models, participants will uncover practical ways to adapt and ensure mobility remains relevant in the new world of work.
At the same time, the sessions emphasize demonstrating value. Participants will learn how to connect mobility initiatives to organizational performance, talent outcomes, and ROI. This ensures GM is recognized not just for moving people, but for driving measurable business success.
Finally, the workshop builds confidence in stakeholder connection and influence. By turning complex insights into compelling stories, participants will be able to win support, build trust, and position GM as a forward-looking partner that anchors value in an evolving workforce landscape.
A few words from co-organizer Benjamin Bader
Anchoring Value in
Global Mobility
Hamburg has always been a city of gateways: ships, people, and ideas flowing in and out, shaping connections across the world. That legacy resonates strongly with what Global Mobility represents today. The ability to open doors, connect talent, and anchor organizations in a fast-changing environment is what the industry today stands for.
What excites me most about this workshop is the chance to rethink how GM can be positioned as a driver of value. GM is so much more than moving people from one place to another. GM is enabling strategy, creating resilience, and building organizations that can thrive across borders. When we show how mobility contributes to growth, adaptability, and leadership, we move far beyond operations into the realm of influence.
Our Hamburg event is an opportunity to take a step back from day-to-day pressures and explore those bigger questions. How do new forms of mobility reshape our profession? How do we turn data and insights into compelling stories for leaders? How do we anchor GM firmly within the future of work?
In Hamburg’s most iconic setting, we will tackle these challenges head-on. My hope is that every participant walks away not only with new tools, but with renewed confidence to demonstrate why Global Mobility truly matters.
Our Partners
We are proud to collaborate with innovative organizations that share our vision for driving strategic impact in Global Mobility. Their expertise, thought leadership, and commitment to innovation elevate the conversations at our events and create lasting value for participants. A huge thank you to our partners for their support in making this workshop a world-class experience.
The Venue
After landmark events in other world-class venues, such as Allianz Arena in Munich and the Empire State Building in New York, our Hamburg workshop takes place in one of the most striking locations in Europe: The Westin at Elbphilharmonie. Rising above the River Elbe and the historic Speicherstadt, this architectural icon is both a cultural beacon and a gateway to the world. Few places capture the blend of history, innovation, and global connectedness as powerfully as this venue.
Recognized internationally as a concert hall of breathtaking design and acoustics, the Elbphilharmonie has become a symbol of vision, precision, and excellence. Qualities that resonate directly with the challenges and opportunities facing Global Mobility today. Hosting our workshop within its inspiring walls underscores the link between tradition and transformation, reminding us that GM must honor its roots while boldly charting new futures.
The Westin Hamburg, seamlessly integrated into the Elbphilharmonie, offers state-of-the-art meeting facilities with stunning views over the port and city skyline. The unique atmosphere combines elegance with creativity, providing the ideal setting for dialogue, innovation, and practical outcomes. From the historic Speicherstadt warehouses to the bustling harbor right outside, every element of this venue reflects the spirit of movement, trade, and global exchange. It is the perfect backdrop for reimagining Global Mobility in the future of work. Truly an environment that will inspire, energize, and leave a lasting impression on every participant.
A few words from co-organizer Stefan Remhof
Modeling the Future, Creating the Plan
For me, the real strength of Global Mobility lies in its ability to look ahead. Organizations cannot afford to simply react to change, they need to anticipate it, prepare for it, and model different scenarios before they arrive. That is where GM adds real strategic weight.
When we create plans that are grounded in data, insight, and foresight, we help leaders navigate uncertainty with confidence. Modeling the future of work is not an academic exercise; it is a practical necessity that allows companies to move talent effectively, manage costs, and remain agile in a volatile environment.
This workshop in Hamburg is a chance to do exactly that. Together, we will explore how different forms of mobility may evolve, how value can be demonstrated under new conditions, and how professionals can build playbooks that stand the test of time. The goal is to move from vague ideas to concrete strategies — plans that guide organizations and give Global Mobility a voice at the decision-making table.
The Agenda
Morning Sessions
09:00 | Welcome and Registration
09:30 | Opening Remarks and Workshop Overview
10:00 | Exploring new Mobility Models
Interactive mapping and reflection session
11:00 | Coffee Break
11:30 | Value in Action
Data-to-Story sprint exercise
12:30 | Lunch
On-site lunch and informal discussions
Afternoon Sessions
13:30 | Envisioning the Future
Interactive, experiential
learning session
14:30 | Coffee Break
15:00 | Shaping Tomorrow’s Mobility
Insights from research and
future-playbook creation
16:30 | Wrap-Up and Final Remarks
17:00 | Networking and Informal
Discussions
Snacks and open bar for further
conversations, networking, and
idea-sharing
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 designed for Global Mobility and HR professionals who want to strengthen their strategic capabilities and prepare for the future of work. Whether you are managing assignments, advising leaders, or shaping global workforce strategies, you will benefit from exploring new mobility models, learning how to demonstrate measurable value, and developing the skills to influence stakeholders. The content is relevant across seniority levels, from specialists to senior leaders, as long as you are ready to engage and move GM forward.
What will I get out of the workshop?
You will gain practical tools, frameworks, and the confidence to position Global Mobility as a strategic anchor in your organization. Through interactive sessions and hands-on exercises, you will explore new forms of mobility, learn how to showcase ROI, and practice influencing stakeholders with data-driven stories. Expect to leave with insights you can immediately apply to strengthen credibility and impact in your role.
What makes this workshop different?
It combines academic insight with experiential learning in a truly unique venue — the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg. The program is highly interactive, with small group work and creative exercises designed to make learning practical and memorable. With a limited group size, you benefit from real exchange, not listening to endless presentations or panels.
How do I know if this workshop is right for me?
If you want to elevate your GM expertise, connect your work more strongly to business value, and prepare for future challenges in mobility, this workshop is right for you.
Is this workshop relevant if I’m not in a senior GM role?
Yes. Professionals at all levels will benefit, whether you are building your career or already leading global programs. The focus is on practical tools and strategies that can be applied regardless of seniority.
What will I leave with?
You will leave with a personal action plan and a future-focused GM Playbook that captures the day’s learnings in a tangible format. Beyond tools and frameworks, you will walk away with renewed confidence to prove the value of mobility, ideas you can apply immediately, and new professional connections that extend your network.
What do I need to prepare?
Nothing in advance. Simply come ready to engage, share your experiences, and participate in interactive exercises. All materials will be provided.
How does this workshop benefit my organization?
Your organization gains a GM professional better equipped to align mobility with business goals, use data to demonstrate ROI, and strengthen decision-making. By applying what you learn, you will be able to optimize operations, influence stakeholders more effectively, and anchor mobility as a recognized contributor to organizational success.
What if I’m not satisfied with the workshop?
We are confident in the value of this program. If you feel it did not meet your expectations, we will discuss it with you directly and make it right.
Is this workshop suitable for HR professionals outside GM?
Absolutely. While the content is designed with GM in mind, HR leaders in areas such as talent management, compensation, or workforce planning will also find it highly relevant.
How is this different from other professional development programs?
This workshop bridges academic insight with practical application. It is immersive, collaborative, and designed to produce tangible outcomes, not just ideas. The intimate group size ensures personal attention and meaningful peer learning. By now, we are looking back at more than a year of successfully offering these kind of events and the feedback from our previous attendees has been extremely positive, highlighting the unique character of the sessions and the fact that you actually walk away with something tangible.
What is this workshop not about?
This is not a theoretical lecture series or a generic seminar or conference. It is not about surface-level discussions or one-size-fits-all approaches. Instead, every element of the workshop is designed with Global Mobility and international HR in mind, focusing on how to demonstrate value in your specific context. It is practical, applied, and outcome-focused.
What is the cost of the workshop?
The workshop is priced at €1099 for early bird registration (valid until February 1, 2026) and €1499 for the full rate, both plus VAT if applicable. If you prefer to pay in Pound Sterling and receive a UK invoice, please reach out to us. Workshop fee includes all workshop materials, meals, and drinks during the sessions. Please note that accommodation is not included.
Does the workshop bridge academia and practice?
Yes, absolutely. This workshop uniquely blends rigorous academic research with practical application. It is anchored in the WAVE framework, a cutting-edge tool developed from evidence-based principles to help Global Mobility professionals achieve measurable results. The very nature of our work is rooted in applying solid academic insights to real-world challenges, ensuring you gain not only theoretical understanding but also actionable strategies that drive success in your role and organization. This bridge between academia and practice ensures relevance, rigor, and impact.
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. 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.
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
Book your space now before it is too late!
The workshop is strictly limited to 20 participants and once it is full, we will not be able to accept any additional attendees. So act now, before the spaces are gone.