In June, Bertelsmann introduced its new Leadership Principles at the Bertelsmann Management Meeting in Gütersloh: "Inspire to Grow," "Execute with Purpose," and "Shape Our Future." Anchored in our Essentials of "Creativity and Entrepreneurship," they provide a compass for leadership across the Group.

The real challenge now lies in making them part of everyday practice. What helps most are visible actions that bring the Principles to life and make them tangible for colleagues. One inspiring example comes from Penguin Random House in Grantham, England:

Edwin Prawicki, a colleague at Penguin Random House International Services – and a graffiti artist in his free time – creatively transformed the Leadership Principles into large-scale wall art at the new European distribution facility. His graffiti now serves as a daily reminder for employees and visitors of what leadership at Bertelsmann stands for.

Creative engagement with the Leadership Principles

Simon Goldstein, Vice President of Penguin Random House International Services, explains: “I believe that everyone is a leader and has the ability to motivate others … Having the Leadership Principles visible in this way allows colleagues to engage with them creatively.”

This initiative shows how our Leadership Principles can be embedded authentically: through creativity, visibility, and everyday relevance. It is an example of how culture change starts – with actions that inspire, connect, and endure!