The Courage to Transform and the Wisdom to Leave — with Syensqo CEO Ilham Kadri

In this episode of Executive Decisions, Steve Sedgwick sits down with Ilham Kadri, CEO of Syensqo.

Raised in a humble home in Casablanca without running water or electricity, Ilham shares how her grandmother’s belief in education as a “third exit” out of poverty shaped her life.

From public schools in Morocco to earning a Ph.D. in macromolecular physical chemistry, her journey is a testament to curiosity and courage.

Ilham reflects on pivotal career decisions—from leaving academia for industry to working for global giants like Shell, Dow, and Solvay.

She opens up about the toughest choices, including balancing motherhood with leadership and spearheading the historic split of a 160-year-old company.

The discussion also explores why embracing discomfort fuels transformation and why leaders must know when to step aside.

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