Creating change in Mexico – Thomas Andersson on leadership, culture, and long-term thinking
When a leading vehicle manufacturer in Mexico struggled with growing complexity and high delivery requirements, Thomas Andersson was tasked with leading the change process. Through careful preparation, cultural understanding, and coaching leadership, he helped the organization return to its fundamental working methods—and created relationships that extend far beyond the assignment itself.
Understanding the culture – the first step towards change
For Thomas, every international assignment begins with thorough preparation. He emphasizes that understanding the local culture is crucial—not only for how people work together, but also for how quickly change can be implemented.
You have to respect traditions and plan for cultural differences, otherwise you risk creating resistance. This can affect both the pace and how the change is received, says Thomas.
In Mexico, for example, ceremonies, celebrations, and family days are a natural part of working life—something that requires sensitivity and flexibility as a leader.
Building structure in a pressured organization
When Thomas joined the organization, he encountered a company that, under intense pressure, had lost sight of some of its working methods.
The most unexpected thing was how quickly basic routines could be lost when complexity increased and demand rose. But it was also in this stressful situation that I, as an interim consultant, was able to contribute with an outside perspective and coaching.
The work largely involved working with employees to rebuild structures and processes—and doing so in a way that everyone could feel ownership of.
Consistent presence more important than quick breakthroughs
Unlike many other assignments, there was no dramatic turning point that changed everything overnight. Instead, it was consistent and determined work that made a difference over time.
No single event was decisive. It was a matter of addressing all levels of the organization every day, explaining, coaching, training, and above all, following up.
With a clear focus on long-term thinking and participation, the team gradually succeeded in improving both quality and stability.
Leading in a different culture
An important insight from the assignment was the difference between Swedish and Mexican work cultures. Although the basic principles of leadership are the same, an adapted approach is needed.
In Mexico, it is important to work actively with engagement and development, as staff turnover is often higher than in Sweden. A clear direction combined with respect for traditions is the key to building trust.
Relationships that last longer than the assignment
For Thomas, it was also an assignment that made him reflect on the importance of relationships in working life.
In Mexico, you build lifelong relationships with the people you help. Even after the assignment is over, I stay in touch and support my former colleagues, who are now my friends. Working life can be more than just work—it can be life itself.
Thomas Andersson's experience shows that successful change management in an international environment is about combining clear leadership with cultural understanding and perseverance. With Interim Search's international networks it becomes possible to quickly match the right skills with the right context – regardless of where in the world the need arises.
