About the Forum
The Forum will focus on pushing the boundaries of innovation and leadership, offering a platform for insightful discussions on the future of business and global collaboration. We are honored to welcome renowned experts who will share their perspectives and expertise.
The Alumni Achievement Award (AAA) ceremony is a highlight of the IEDC Global Alumni Forum, celebrating the outstanding professional and personal accomplishments of IEDC graduates.
The AAA is given out at the yearly Alumni Achievement Forum.
Schedule
| 09:00 – 09:30 |
Registration and welcome coffee
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| 09:30 – 9:40 |
Welcome address
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| 9:40 – 11:00 |
Keynote address: Innovation Without Technology
- Prof. Bill Fischer, Professor Emeritus of Innovation Management at IMD Lausanne, and a Senior Lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management
Professor Fischer's lecture explores the broader concept of innovation beyond its common association with technology. He highlights that while many equate innovation with technological advancements, true innovation also thrives in business models and organizational change—both of which are currently undergoing radical experimentation. Furthermore, he introduces the idea of innovation as a leadership lifestyle, though this perspective is less frequently discussed. A key takeaway from his lecture is that innovation is not limited to specialists or specific fields; rather, it is an accessible and empowering mindset that anyone can adopt.
Q&A
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| 11:00 – 11:30 |
Coffee break
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| 11:30 – 12:15 |
Keynote address: Leading Business Transformation in the Age of AI
- Mr. Ulrik Nehammer, Chairman International, ServiceNow
Ulrik Nehammer, Chairman International at ServiceNow, will explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on both society and business. Drawing on his decades of leadership across global organizations—including 24 years with The Coca-Cola Company, serving as CEO of Salesforce APAC, and leading EMEA operations—Ulrik will share a unique perspective on how AI is reshaping productivity, organizational culture, and human potential.
This session will go beyond the hype of AI to examine its real-world applications and the societal shifts it is already driving. Set against a rapidly evolving geopolitical and macroeconomic backdrop—one increasingly influenced by AI and automation—Ulrik will address how companies can navigate this new reality with agility, purpose, and trust, ensuring that both businesses and individuals thrive.
With insights from leading international markets and a deep understanding of cultural transformation, Ulrik will offer a strategic framework for adapting to change and leading responsibly in the age of AI.
Q&A
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| 12:15 - 13:00 |
Keynote address: Science and innovation for strengthening the competitiveness of the Slovenian economy
- Ms. Tanja Fajon, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Republic of Slovenia
In her keynote speech Ms. Fajon will focus on the importance of science and innovation for economic growth, the government's investment in innovation, and the role of Slovenian companies in the global innovation landscape. It will also cover Slovenia's membership in ESA and CERN, scientific diplomacy, the scientific fund, and the 20th anniversary of the Bled Strategic Forum (BSF).
Q&A
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| 13:00 - 14:00 |
Lunch
|
| 14:00 - 16:00 |
Alumni Achievement Award
The Award recognizes outstanding career, leadership, innovation, social achievements of up to five remarkable individuals among IEDC alumni community.
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Speakers