What does it take to build a seamless connection between the agile world of startups and the structured environments of corporate innovators? In this episode of Innovation Storytellers Show, I had the pleasure of speaking with Trena Blair, Founder & CEO of FD Global Connections, who brought her extensive expertise to the table in exploring how to bridge these two worlds.
Trena shared insights from her book, Decoding Global Growth: How Successful Companies Scale Internationally, a practical guide for startups scaling across borders. We explored the challenges startups face when moving from the prototype stage to becoming a scale-up, emphasizing the critical importance of resilience within leadership teams and the organizations they build. Trena discussed how leadership skills must evolve through the business growth lifecycle, shifting from directive approaches to fostering delegation and teamwork—essential elements for navigating the complexities of scaling.
We also touched on the cultural dynamics between startups and corporates, a factor that’s often overlooked yet can make or break partnerships. Trena highlighted the challenges of cultural misalignment, sharing an unforgettable story of a startup acquired by IBM and its “blue washing” experience—a 300-line checklist for assimilation into the corporate structure. The anecdote serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance required to preserve innovation while integrating into a larger organization.
This episode explores the frameworks and strategies needed for startups and corporations to thrive together, including Trena’s expert approach to risk management and governance. From assessing a startup’s capacity and capability to understanding cultural nuances and market needs, Trena offers invaluable guidance for leaders on both sides of the partnership.
What’s the secret to maintaining a startup’s innovative spirit while embracing the structure of a corporate partnership? Listen to this thought-provoking conversation and share your take!
Name: Trena Blair
Title: Founder & CEO
| LinkedIn | Website | FD Global Connections LinkedIn Page
Trena Blair’s role as the CEO of a small company making a big global impact didn’t come about by accident. A Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, a Global Mentor, a Non-Executive Director and now author of #1 Amazon Best Seller (Australia) and #1 Amazon Best New Release (USA) “Decoding Global Growth: How Successful Companies Scale Internationally”, Trena’s career has been marked by significant achievements in international business. As the Founder and CEO of FD Global Connections, Trena combines her creative problem-solving skills, commercial acumen and extensive U.S. and Global business expansion experience to deliver dream outcomes for her clients.
Trena’s expertise is deeply rooted in her practical understanding of the U.S. market’s complexities. Her approach to strategy is both innovative and personalized, focusing on the specific needs and goals of each client. Trena is known for her honesty and integrity; she only takes on clients who are truly ready for the U.S. market, ensuring that each partnership is set up for success.
A key to Trena’s effectiveness is her skill in strategic networking. Amongst her core personal values are generosity and authenticity, two character traits that shine through in her interactions with everyone she meets. Through a combination of warmth, professionalism, profound respect for the entrepreneurial journey and genuine interest in helping people, Trena has built a robust network of industry contacts across the U.S., which she leverages to benefit both her clients and their connections. It’s her unique ability to connect these resources with her clients’ objectives in a way that feels natural and mutually rewarding that transforms potential opportunities into real-world successes.
