Ep:#101 Leading Through Chaos: How to Thrive in Uncertainty with Fernanda Lopes Larsen

What if everything you thought you needed to succeed stability, certainty, control—was actually holding you back? In today’s world, the leaders who thrive aren’t the ones who stick to the plan; they’re the ones who know how to adapt, inspire, and drive real change. In this episode, I sit down with Fernanda Lopes Larsen, Executive Vice President at Yara International, a global leader in sustainable agriculture solutions, to explore what leadership truly means when the stakes are high, and uncertainty is the only constant. Born and raised in Brazil, Fernanda’s journey is one of resilience, ambition, and an unrelenting commitment to breaking barriers. From FMCG to agribusiness, from Brazil to Austria to Singapore—her path wasn’t planned, but it was driven by a refusal to settle for what was expected. And that mindset has served her well. Leading a vast region across Africa, Asia, and Oceania, she has had to navigate everything from global pandemics to political upheaval—all while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion as a business imperative, not a 'nice to have.' We talk about: 🔹 Why diversity isn’t just morally right—it’s critical for business success. 🔹 How the murder of George Floyd catalysed one of Scandinavia’s only Black talent programs. 🔹 The leadership traits that matter most in times of crisis—agility, curiosity, and courage. 🔹 Why leaders must be willing to stand alone, have tough conversations, and push forward even when change isn’t yet profitable. As we enter a world where DEI mandates are being questioned and the challenges of leadership are greater than ever, this conversation is essential listening. And begs the question: are we cultivating the kind of leaders we need for the future? So, throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and let’s get stuck in. 🎧 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international best selling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠].