The Power of Positioning: Turning GM into a Strategic Force
September 15 & 16, 2026. Herzogenaurach, Germany
Join us for a two-day intensive workshop designed for Global Mobility and International HR leaders ready to elevate their strategic influence. You will explore how power, positioning, and organizational dynamics shape the role of GM, and learn how to move from operational support to a true strategic force. Through hands-on exercises and a high-impact simulation, you will experience how influence is built, how decisions are shaped, and how GM can earn its place at the center of the business.
About
The Power of Positioning
This workshop is designed for Global Mobility and International HRM professionals who want to strengthen their strategic position within the organization. Over the course of two days, we explore how power, positioning, and organizational dynamics shape the role of GM and how to manage them effectively. You will engage in a high-impact simulation game, reflect on real organizational challenges, and exchange perspectives with peers. You will leave with a clearer understanding of where GM stands today and a practical approach to positioning it as a true strategic force in your organization.
15
Participants max
Ensuring a focused and engaging environment for personalized learning and meaningful interactions.
2
Days of In-Depth Learning
Dive deep into Global Mobility trends and strategies with over 12 hours of dedicated content.
1
Great Location
Hosted at a craft brewery, fostering a unique blend of professional development and creative, inspiring surroundings.
Workshop Process
Through a series of structured exercises and a high-impact simulation game, participants will individually and collaboratively explore, test, and refine actionable strategies around positioning GM as a strategic force within the organization. The workshop runs across two days, includes dedicated networking opportunities, and is strictly limited to 15 participants to ensure a highly interactive and impactful experience.
A few words from the organizers
Why this event is for you!
This workshop is for Global Mobility professionals who want to strengthen their position within the organization and play a more strategic role. You do not need formal authority. You need curiosity, openness, and a willingness to challenge how GM operates today.
We know that navigating internal dynamics, competing priorities, and unclear ownership can be frustrating. That is exactly why we designed this workshop. It cuts through theory and focuses on how influence really works in practice.
Over two days, you will engage in hands-on exercises, a high-impact simulation game, and focused discussions with peers. The goal is simple: to help you better understand where power sits, how decisions are shaped, and how GM can move from support function to strategic force.
This is not another conceptual workshop. It is about giving you the clarity and confidence to position GM where it truly matters.
Stefan Remhof & Benjamin Bader
Power, Positioning, and Strategic Influence
This workshop gives Global Mobility professionals a clear understanding of how power operates within organizations. Participants explore who really drives decisions in their organizations, how influence is distributed, and why Global Mobility often struggles to be seen as a strategic function despite its critical role.
At the core of the workshop is a high-impact simulation game that brings these dynamics to life. Participants actively engage in running a complex system, experience shifting power structures, and see firsthand how decisions are shaped by influence, relationships, and positioning rather than formal roles. This is a truly experiential learning exercise setting the stage for applying this experience in their organizations.
Finally, participants reflect in more detail on what this means for their own organization. They identify where GM in their organization stands today, where it needs to be, and how to reposition it more effectively. The outcome is a practical, actionable approach to strengthening GM’s strategic role and influence.
A few words from co-organizer Benjamin Bader
Why Experiential Learning Changes Everything
We know from decades of research that people do not learn effectively by simply listening. Real learning happens when individuals are actively involved, when they experience situations, make decisions, and reflect on the outcomes. This is especially true when dealing with complex topics such as power, influence, and organizational dynamics, where there is no single correct answer and no straightforward path.
Experiential learning creates exactly these conditions. It moves participants from passive understanding to active engagement. Instead of discussing abstract concepts, they are placed in situations where they must navigate uncertainty, interact with others, and make choices that carry consequences. This leads to deeper insight, stronger retention, and a much clearer understanding of how ideas translate into practice.
Simulation games take this one step further. They compress real-world complexity into a focused, high-impact experience. Participants are not told how power works, they feel it, struggle with it, and learn how to respond. This makes the learning immediate, personal, and highly transferable back into their own organizational context.
The Venue
In the heart of Herzogenaurach, Bierfabrik Hoehn offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it the ideal location for our workshop. This microbrewery and event space is known for its vibrant atmosphere, combining the art of craft brewing with a creative environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. It’s a place that invites conversation, sparks ideas, and feels just different enough to help you think in new ways.
We hosted our first workshop here in early 2025 and we knew immediately we would be back. The energy, the setting, and the feedback from participants made it clear that something special happens in this space. That’s why we are now returning to Bierfabrik Hoehn once more, for our third workshop there: to build on that momentum and create another memorable, high-impact experience.
Herzogenaurach itself has a rich history in global business and is home to companies like adidas, PUMA, and Schaeffler, adding to the dynamic and inspiring atmosphere. It’s also easy to reach, with strong transport links and close proximity to Nuremberg International Airport (NUE).
Between engaging sessions, practical exercises, and guided beer tastings, the venue strikes the perfect balance between professional and personal. Just the way we like it.
What participants of previous workshops say about the experience
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
Day 1: September 15, 2026
13:30 | Welcome and Registration
14:00 | Opening Remarks and Workshop Overview
14:30 | Mapping Power:
Who Really Drives Decisions
15:30 | Coffee Break
16:00 | Data, Trends, Market Reality:
Positioning GM from Support to Strategic
17:15 | Preparing for the Simulation Game: Mindset and Mechanics
17:30 | Beer Tasting
18:00 | Dinner, Drinks, and Networking
(included in workshop fee)
Day 2: September 16, 2026
09:00 | Morning Coffee and Networking
09:30 | Experiential Learning:
Simulation Game (Phase I)
11:00 | Coffee Break
11:30 | Experiential Learning:
Simulation Game (Phase II)
13:00 | Lunch
14:00 | Power in Practice: What the
Simulation Game Reveals About GM
15:00 | Power Structures:
Finding GM’s Place in the System
15:30 | Wrap-up, Closing Remarks,
Networking and Informal Discussions
Our Partners
We are excited to announce our event partners in due course.
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!
What is the cost of the workshop?
The workshop is priced at €1499 for early bird registration (valid until June 30, 2026) and €1899 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, as well as a special beer tasting experience. Please note that accommodation is not included.
What will I get out of the workshop?
You will gain a practical understanding of how power and influence shape decisions—and what that means for GM. Through structured exercises, peer exchange, and a high-impact simulation game, you will experience these dynamics firsthand.
You will leave with clearer insight into your own organizational context, greater confidence in navigating stakeholders, and concrete ideas you can directly apply. At the same time, the workshop offers valuable networking and exchange with peers facing similar challenges.
What makes this workshop different?
This workshop is built around experience rather than theory. At its core is a high-impact simulation game that allows you to actively engage with power dynamics and organizational decision-making instead of just discussing them. This creates a level of insight that traditional workshop formats cannot easily achieve.
You will not just learn concepts—you will experience them, reflect on them, and apply them to your own context. Combined with focused discussions and peer exchange, this ensures that the learning is both memorable and directly relevant to your day-to-day work.
What if I’m not satisfied with the workshop?
We’re confident in the value of our workshop. If you feel it’s not meeting your expectations, tell us so during the first day of the workshop and we offer you a no-questions-asked refund guarantee.
Who is this workshop for?
This workshop is designed for Global Mobility and International HR professionals who want to strengthen their role within the organization and move beyond operational delivery. It is particularly relevant for those who feel that GM is not fully recognized for its strategic value or who want to play a more active role in shaping decisions and influencing outcomes.
You do not need a formal leadership title to benefit from this workshop. What matters is your willingness to engage, reflect, and challenge how GM is currently positioned. Whether you lead a function, manage processes, or contribute to strategic discussions, this workshop will help you better understand the organizational dynamics around you and how to navigate them more effectively.
If you are ready to think differently about power, positioning, and influence—and want to strengthen your impact in a meaningful way—this workshop is for you.
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 a clearer understanding of how power and influence operate in your organization and what that means for Global Mobility. This includes a more realistic view of where GM stands today and where it needs to be positioned.
In addition, you will take away practical ideas and approaches to strengthen your role, improve stakeholder engagement, and contribute more effectively to strategic discussions within your organization.
How does this workshop benefit my organization?
Your organization benefits from a stronger and more strategically positioned Global Mobility function. By improving how you understand and navigate internal dynamics, you will be better equipped to contribute to key decisions and align GM with broader business priorities. This leads to more effective collaboration, clearer positioning, and ultimately greater impact of Global Mobility within the organization.
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 do I know if this workshop is right for me?
If you feel that Global Mobility is not fully recognized for its strategic value or that key decisions are often made without your input, this workshop is highly relevant. It is designed for professionals who want to better understand how organizations actually operate and how influence is built.
You do not need to have all the answers. What matters is your willingness to reflect on your current position and explore new ways of engaging with stakeholders and shaping outcomes in your organization.
How is this different from other professional development programs?
Most professional development programs focus on transferring knowledge. This workshop focuses on experience, reflection, and application, creating a deeper and more lasting understanding of how organizations function. The combination of simulation, discussion, and practical insight ensures that what you learn is not only understood but also usable in your own organizational context.
Is this workshop suitable for HR professionals outside GM?
Yes, especially for HR professionals who work closely with talent strategy, international assignments, or organizational development. The focus on power, positioning, and influence is highly relevant beyond Global Mobility. If your role involves working across functions and navigating complex organizational dynamics, you will find the insights and approaches directly applicable.
What is this workshop not about?
It’s not a passive lecture or a one-size-fits-all training. This is a hands-on, interactive experience focused on empowering you with tools and strategies that are immediately actionable and relevant to your specific career goals.
Do you have a hotel recommendation or discounted rate?
We will provide hotel recommendations to all registered participants to make planning your stay as easy as possible. These will include options close to the venue and suitable for different preferences.
If discounted rates are available, these will also be shared with participants ahead of the event to support convenient and efficient booking.
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 15 participants and once it is full, we will not be able to accept any additional attendees. So act now, before the spaces are gone.