Ep 228: Ram - Balancing global and local approaches in Asia
In this episode of Leadership Conversations: The Untold Secrets of the C-Suite, host Nick Jonsson welcomes Ram Weingarten, General Manager of Rivulis Asia Pacific, for a thoughtful discussion on one of the most complex leadership challenges today: balancing global strategy with local execution across Asia.
Leading in Asia requires far more than simply applying a global playbook. With its rich diversity of cultures, languages, regulatory environments, and market expectations, Asia demands leaders who can adapt, listen, and lead with cultural intelligence. Ram shares insights from his extensive experience navigating these diverse markets while remaining aligned with global organizational goals and values.
Throughout the conversation, Ram reflects on his leadership journey and the lessons learned from managing teams across multiple countries. He explains how successful leaders in Asia must develop a deep understanding of local contexts—ranging from communication styles and decision-making norms to talent expectations and customer behavior. Global consistency is important, but rigidity can quickly become a liability if leaders fail to adapt their approach to local realities.
Ram also discusses the importance of building high-performing, multicultural teams. He emphasizes trust, clarity, and empowerment as essential foundations for performance, particularly when leading across borders. Rather than imposing one leadership style, Ram encourages leaders to remain curious, flexible, and respectful of local perspectives while still holding teams accountable to shared standards and outcomes.
A key theme of the episode is alignment—how to ensure global values are lived authentically at the local level. Ram shares how leaders can translate corporate vision into meaningful actions that resonate with regional teams. This includes investing in leadership development, encouraging open dialogue, and creating space for local leaders to contribute ideas rather than simply execute directives.
The conversation also explores how leaders can manage complexity during periods of change, including market volatility, organizational transformation, and shifting workforce expectations. Ram highlights the need for resilience, adaptability, and clear communication, especially when teams are navigating uncertainty across different cultural contexts.
This episode offers practical takeaways for senior leaders, regional managers, and anyone operating in Asia’s dynamic business environment. Whether you are leading a multinational organization, managing cross-border teams, or preparing for a leadership role in the region, Ram’s insights provide a grounded and realistic perspective on what it truly takes to succeed.
Above all, this conversation reinforces that effective leadership in Asia is not about choosing between global or local—but learning how to balance both with intention, humility, and strategic clarity.
Contact Ram to collaborate with him:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ram-weingarten-4363792/
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