Alina Nickolson is the CEO of Europe Licensed & Commercial Markets at Suntory Beverage & Food. In this episode, recorded live at their offices in Amsterdam, she shares her unconventional journey from scientist and forklift driver to FMCG executive, discusses how great leaders balance performance and transformation, and explains why careers are more like a subway than a ladder. The conversation also explores coaching, diversity, AI, and the leadership lessons she’s learned managing teams and businesses across Europe.
Tune in to hear about:
- From biochemistry and logistics to leading some of the biggest FMCG businesses in Europe.
- Why leadership requires both decisiveness and vulnerability—and knowing when to use each.
- The mindset behind building high-performing teams through coaching, empowerment, and trust.
- How FMCG companies can navigate transformation, changing consumer expectations, and the rise of AI.
- Lessons on career growth, work-life balance, and why careers are “more like a subway than a ladder.”
