SMP LeaderTalks

#112 | Competitive advantage through natural principles

SMP LeaderTalks

24. September 2025

Georgiy Michailov meets Gudrun Happich

On evolution, metamorphosis, and self-organization.

1 h 02 Min

"Nature has no executive suite—and yet it works."

Many managers today are looking for new approaches: How can responsibility be shared effectively? What kind of leadership is still effective in a complex world? And how can companies survive in times of constant transformation? A clear answer comes from an unexpected source: nature. If you look closely, you will discover principles that have been tried and tested over millions of years – and are surprisingly applicable to organizations.

"Leadership means establishing rules—and ensuring that they are followed."

Gudrun Happich is a biologist, executive coach, and sparring partner for top executives. Her concept of “natureing” combines observations of nature with concrete leadership insights. Whether it's self-organization, goal hierarchies, or performance types, she shows how pragmatic, effective solutions can be derived from nature. Instead of buzzwords, she advocates clarity, humility, and effectiveness. In conversation with Georgiy Michailov, she talks about what insights we can gain from ravens and wolves and why transformation takes time—and trust. 

*Video only in German

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