Introduction of Global Minds Project Czech republic

Ten out of the fifteen most significant companies in the Czech Republic are led by foreign executives. Whether it's carmakers like Škoda and Hyundai, energy giant E.ON, petrochemical and refining group Orlen Unipetrol, or retail chains such as Lidl, Penny, and Kaufland — the influence of international experts on the Czech business environment is undeniable. Their invaluable global experience is the focus of the new project Global Minds, which counts the Newstream platform among its media partners.

The commonly used English term Expat comes from the Latin expatriatus, meaning “someone who lives outside their homeland.” The new platform Global Minds, initiated by the agency Cover Story, is dedicated to this very group. “Seven out of the top ten companies featured in the Top 100 Most Significant ranking have elite foreign executives in their leadership. Their expertise, experience, and influence are essential for many of the largest companies on the market. We believe they can inspire us — not only through their leadership and worldview but also through their career paths,” explains David Mařík, Head of Content at Cover Story.

Through interviews, regular overviews, and networking events, Global Minds will showcase the contributions of expats shaping the Czech business environment. A key media output will be a podcast series launching this autumn on the Newstream platform, featuring not only English-speaking expats but also Czech and Slovak leaders with international experience. “By sharing insights, leadership strategies, and market perspectives, we aim to foster dialogue within the business community. This new platform serves as a bridge for knowledge exchange, professional connections, and cultural understanding — contributing to a more dynamic and interconnected economy. It also facilitates direct links between foreign executives operating in the Czech Republic,” says Nikola Macková from Cover Story.

A visible part of the project will be two special overviews: “Expat Leaders in the Czech Republic.” The first will focus on CEOs, while the second will highlight other key members of boards and top management. “Both overviews will also include a special, inspiring selection of Czech managers working abroad,” adds Michaela Stoklasová from Cover Story.

In addition to the Cover Story agency, the law firm Dentons is one of the key initiators behind the project. It has also been supported by VIG Re, Komerční banka, Orlen Unipetrol, and Tesco. “We became the main partner of Global Mindsbecause we believe international collaboration and knowledge sharing are key to innovation and long-term company growth,” said Jiří Stržínek, Co-Managing Partner of Dentons Prague.

The project, which connects leaders across industries and cultures, is seen as a powerful impulse for the business community — not only in the Czech Republic but across the entire region. “We support the idea of open dialogue, mutual learning, and strategic development that goes beyond individual markets,” added Ladislav Smejkal, also Co-Managing Partner at Dentons Prague, noting that Global Minds aligns with the values his office stands for — openness, collaboration, and an emphasis on international perspective. “It’s an honor for us to be part of this initiative as its main partner,” said both Co-Managing Partners.

The reinsurer VIG Re views the project in a similar light. “As a globally active company with an international team representing over 35 nationalities and offices in Prague, Munich, and Paris, we see Global Minds as a meaningful initiative that highlights the importance of an international environment and the contribution of foreign executives to the Czech economy. We want to actively raise awareness of their expertise and innovation,” said Martina Lambert, Strategic Marketing & PR Manager at VIG Re. Through this project, VIG Re is building on last year’s podcast series Women Leaders Beyond Borders, which presented inspiring stories of female expat leaders. “We believe that giving visibility to these professionals is crucial for enriching the local business environment and inspiring others,” added Martina Lambert.