Ep4 | Jasper Knoben

What does it take to lead an e-commerce business through nonstop disruption—while staying agile, culturally intelligent, and ready for AI’s next wave? In this episode of In The Lead Podcast, host Anna J. Breimer Bharati sits down with Jasper Knoben, CEO of Intrepid e-Commerce Enabler (Singapore), to explore how leaders can stay ahead in one of the fastest-changing industries in the region.

From Jasper’s journey from the Netherlands to leading a Southeast Asia-focused digital commerce company, to the real-world impact of platforms like TikTok and the rise of generative AI, this conversation unpacks what it means to lead with both structure and flexibility. Jasper shares how Intrepid approaches scenario thinking, builds agility across teams, and creates the conditions for continuous learning, so people can adapt quickly without losing clarity or performance. They also discuss practical management practices, decision-making under uncertainty, cross-cultural leadership, emotional control, and how leaders can balance team development with the pace of market change.

In This Episode

(00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome

(00:28) Jasper's Background and Intrepid Overview

(01:19) Industry Changes and Adaptation

(03:06) Disruptions and AI Impact

(07:44) Scenario Thinking and Strategic Planning

(15:05) Agility and Employee Empowerment

(20:32) Leadership and Decision-Making

(24:51) Navigating Cultural Intelligence in Leadership

(25:24) Learning from Diverse Leadership Styles

(26:46) The Importance of Emotional Control in Leadership

(31:13) Balancing Leadership and Team Development

(35:06) Upskilling and Training for Effective Management

(40:37) Decision Making in Uncertain Times

(45:00) Adapting to Market Changes and Competition

(46:18) Final Thoughts on Leadership in a Disruptive World

Our Guest: Jasper Knoben

Jasper Knoben is the CEO of Intrepid, a Southeast Asia focused digital commerce company that helps brands grow their presence across leading e-commerce marketplaces in the region. He is also a regular voice on Southeast Asia e-commerce trends and how the digital commerce landscape is evolving.

Your Host: Anna J. Breimer Bharati

Anna J. Breimer Bharati is the founder of Tomorrow College, created to build a new kind of leadership for a changing world. With over 15 years of experience working alongside senior leaders at global organizations, Anna helps executives develop themselves while empowering others. Having witnessed the paradigm shift in how organizations and leaders must evolve, she is passionate about equipping today’s trailblazers to become the better leaders of tomorrow.

Powerful conversations with leaders navigating disruption, transformation, and the realities of modern leadership. Tune in, get inspired, and step confidently into your own leadership journey.

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