At the DOUGLAS Group, empowering talent and fostering exchange across boundaries are key priorities. By creating opportunities for employees to connect, learn, and grow beyond their immediate environment, the company actively supports the development of future-focused leadership and a strong, collaborative network.
Since October 2023, the DOUGLAS Group has partnered with the international LEAD Network, giving employees access to a global platform for cross-company exchange, mentoring, and targeted leadership development. The collaboration connects diverse perspectives from the retail and FMCG industries and helps employees build skills, expand networks, and grow their leadership potential.
The partnership is built around three core development pillars: the cross-company mentoring programme BOOST, the IMPACT NextGen initiative for emerging talents, and the modular All In: THRIVE learning portfolio—together strengthening leadership capabilities, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusive collaboration across career stages
BOOST – Expanding perspectives through mentoring
Some DOUGLAS Group employees are actively participating in the BOOST mentoring programme, which connects mentees with experienced leaders from other companies over a nine-month period. At the same time, DOUGLAS mentors support talents from external organizations. This cross-company approach enables participants to gain new perspectives beyond their own corporate environment.
IMPACT NextGen – Developing future leaders
The “IMPACT NextGen” programme focuses on young talents and high potentials. Over approximately six months, participants strengthen their leadership skills while working on innovative solutions for the retail sector. The programme includes coaching and mentoring and culminates in a final pitch to senior leaders at the annual LEAD Conference.
All In: THRIVE – Advancing inclusive leadership
The “All In: THRIVE” portfolio complements these initiatives with modular learning formats for different career stages. With a focus on inclusive leadership, collaboration, and bias awareness, it combines virtual sessions and self-paced learning to support reflection and practical application in everyday leadership.
Building networks beyond programmes
Beyond structured learning formats, the LEAD partnership also offers valuable networking opportunities, including the annual LEAD Conference and executive roundtables. These formats enable direct exchange with industry leaders and strengthen connections across companies and markets.
“LEAD is more than just a development programme – it’s a platform that connects people, ideas, and perspectives across the entire industry,” says Gwen-Ellen Schwarz, Head of Group Learning & Development.
Overall, the partnership has become an important part of the DOUGLAS Group’s talent and leadership development approach, empowering employees to broaden their perspectives, build meaningful networks, and actively contribute to shaping the future of retail.
The current programmes will continue through to the LEAD Conference in October. We look forward to gaining further insights into the participants’ experiences and following the outcomes of the mentoring and development programmes.
