Global Business Events

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Baratta Center Impact Roundtable: Driving Global Business for the Common Good

On Tuesday, Dec. 3, the Baratta Center for Global Business hosted its Impact Roundtable: Driving Global Business for the Common Good. The event brought together prominent leaders to discuss how businesses can achieve financial success while driving positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes.

The discussion emphasized the intersection of people, planet, and profit, with a keynote address by Laura Lane (MSFS’90), former chief corporate affairs officer at United Parcel Service (UPS), and an insightful panel moderated by Leslie Crutchfield, executive director of Business for Impact at Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business.

Keynote Highlights: Laura Lane

Lane shared her inspiring journey, highlighting how her Jesuit education laid the foundation for her commitment to global good.

“My Jesuit education instilled in me a passion for service,” she said, recalling how this commitment led her to pursue a career in foreign service after receiving her master’s in international economics and business diplomacy from Georgetown’s Walsh School of Foreign Service. Lane recounted her transformative experience in Rwanda during the 1994 genocide, where she successfully negotiated the safe evacuation of 258 Americans.

“It was about establishing bonds of trust and finding common ground,” she explained. At just 25 years old, Lane used her humanity and creativity — baking banana bread and brownies — to build relationships with both rebel and government forces while crossing the demilitarization zone. 

“The relationships I developed by establishing common interests and connections as human beings paid dividends during the evacuation efforts when I was the only one who could get across the lines to negotiate ceasefires,” Lane recalled.

Lane’s career evolved as she transitioned to the corporate world, where she continued to integrate the principles of service and purpose into business strategies. At UPS, she led initiatives to define the company’s corporate purpose, asking 500,000 employees to share their perspectives. “When you tap into the values your people bring to their roles, you become unstoppable,” she emphasized.

On sustainability, Lane shared how UPS developed a carbon dashboard to track emissions across trade lanes and used the insights to drive greener business practices. “You need passion for the planet, but you also need numbers to back it up,” she explained, advocating for metrics-driven approaches that align environmental goals with business objectives.

When asked by Baratta Chair in Global Business, Ricardo Ernst, to share her “three cents of wisdom” for aspiring leaders, Lane spoke about the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and resilience as key qualities for navigating complex global challenges. 

Lane explained that rigid plans can often limit opportunities for growth and innovation. “Be open to paths you hadn’t considered,” she advised. She also stressed the value of asking questions and embracing a mindset of continuous learning, highlighting that the best solutions often emerge from interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, Lane redefined the concept of failure by viewing it not as a setback but as a stepping stone for progress and self-discovery.

“If something doesn’t make your heart sing, use it as a springboard to find what does,” she said, encouraging others to approach challenges with resilience and optimism.

Perspectives on Driving Impact

The panel discussion, moderated by Crutchfield, explored the delicate balance between prioritizing people, the planet, and profitability. Panelists Gally Mayer (B’93), co-founder of Buena Vida Specialty Coffee and member of the Baratta Center advisory board; Brian Finch (C’98), vice president of sustainability at Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth ; and Nzinga Broussard, senior director of impact measurement at the Sorensen Institute , shared their diverse perspectives on driving impact in business.

Mayer began by sharing Buena Vida’s commitment to a “people, planet, and profit” approach. She explained that their model rejects traditional profit-first frameworks in favor of transparency and equity for farmers. The coffee industry has historically underpaid its farmers, Mayer noted; however, at Buena Vida, she and her team, have built a regenerative and responsible supply chain where we work for the farmers. 

“We’re organized as a virtual co-op, representing over 500 farmers, and ensuring they’re fairly compensated,” Mayer said. She explained that the company’s regenerative practices are rooted in nature and long-standing agricultural knowledge. For Mayer, another area of great importance was sustainable soil management: “You have to care for the soil and the farmer.” Mayer likened Buena Vida’s mission to being the “Patagonia of coffee,” balancing premium quality with ethical responsibility.

Finch outlined Mastercard’s strategy to integrate social impact into its core business operations. As a global payments network, Mastercard focuses on creating inclusive and sustainable systems that benefit all stakeholders. “Our success is deeply connected to economic growth,” Finch explained, “and that includes bringing one billion unbanked individuals into the digital economy by 2025.” 

Finch reinforced the need for data-driven approaches to accountability, referencing Mastercard’s commitment to formalize rigorous assessments of both positive and negative impacts. “You can’t manage what you don’t measure,” Finch stated, “but you also can’t manage what you don’t identify or choose to ignore.” He pointed to Mastercard’s philanthropic and commercial initiatives that have created long-term value by aligning business objectives with social outcomes.

Broussard brought an economist’s perspective to the discussion by focusing on the challenges of measuring impact in a rigorous yet practical way. “Impact is the difference between the outcomes of an intervention and what would have happened otherwise,” she explained, highlighting the difficulty of determining counterfactual scenarios. Broussard warned against “impact washing,” where companies make bold claims without measurable improvements and advocated for robust frameworks. “We need to ask: What are the expected outcomes? Who benefits? How much, and for how long? What are the risks?” she said, outlining her five dimensions of impact. She also emphasized the importance of balancing rigor and practicality: “It’s not about perfection but about meaningful contributions.”

Together, the panelists illustrated how collaboration across disciplines and sectors allows businesses to address multifaceted challenges. From sustainable agriculture to financial inclusion and impact measurement, their experiences highlighted the value of working together to create innovative solutions. This collective approach reflects the importance of partnerships in driving progress and reinforces the idea that no single organization or industry can solve today’s most pressing issues alone.

Through dialogue, collaboration, and evidence-informed action, businesses can align their goals to achieve greater impact and give value to both their stakeholders and society as a whole.

View the event page for more information .

The Baratta Center for Global Business hosted its second annual Future of Global Business Conference at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business to gather thought leaders, industry executives, and members of the Georgetown community to discuss the theme, “The Path Forward: Competition and Collaboration in a Fragmented World.” The conference welcomed over 300 attendees to share insights on topics such as cross-border investing, resilient leadership, transformations in energy, mobility, and food, and the intersection of profit and purpose.

“Pulling from our longstanding traditions and partnerships here in Washington, D.C., and around the world, we are ideally positioned to understand, unravel, and find answers to the most complex issues facing our global business community,” said Paul Almeida, dean and William R. Berkley Chair at Georgetown McDonough, during his opening remarks. “Through this conference, new degree programs, and our faculty-led centers and initiatives, we demonstrate to the next generation of business leaders that positive change comes from embracing ambiguity, leaning into innovation, and keeping a values-based approach to business.”

View the GCC Conference event page for more information .

On Thursday, Oct. 3, the Baratta Center for Global Business at Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business co-hosted the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) 2035 Conference in partnership with Georgetown University in Qatar , the Qatar Ministry of Finance , and the GCC Secretariat in Doha, Qatar.

Following the theme, “Exploring the Future of Regionalization, Global and Regional Industries, and Trade and Investments”, the conference addressed the complex political and economic landscape, focusing on post-COVID economic recovery, technological and climate advancements, and the challenges posed by global geopolitical tensions. Discussions explored the GCC’s potential to develop a robust regional and collaborative model amidst these challenges, examining best practices and innovations from around the world. 

The event featured three roundtable panels and three keynotes, with participation from GCC ministers, global investors, and senior government officials. Discussions focused on economic diversification, trade, future industries, sustainable energy, and fostering an investment-friendly ecosystem. 

The world stands at a pivotal juncture, facing both economic promise and geopolitical complexity. While challenges persist — such as post-COVID inflation, geopolitical tensions, climate inaction, and conflicts — there are also reasons for optimism, as noted by the Baratta Center team during the conference. In addition to other topics, GCC 2035 discussed the transformative opportunities presented by artificial intelligence, as well as the promise of better economic outcomes as a result of improving global GDP recovery.

According to insights presented during the conference, growing economic fragmentation and shifting power dynamics are complicating global trade. For the GCC, these trends present both challenges and opportunities. The region is advancing in economic diversification, industrialization, and reducing reliance on hydrocarbons, positioning itself as a hub for sustainable development and technology-driven growth.

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The Baratta Center for Global Business CEO Signature Series, in collaboration with the Stanton Distinguished Leaders Series at Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business, featured Óscar García Maceiras, the CEO of Inditex. The event was co-sponsored by the Georgetown Retail and Luxury Association and the Graduate Retail and Luxury Association, with opening remarks delivered by their respective presidents, Carolina O’Leary (SFS‘25) and Alejandra Giron (MBA ‘25).

During his presentation, García Maceiras shared his insights into Inditex’s innovative business model, sustainability efforts, and how the company has consistently evolved to stay at the forefront of the retail industry. He provided an in-depth look at Inditex’s operating model, highlighting how the company manages its diverse portfolio of brands, including Zara, Massimo Dutti, Pull&Bear, and Bershka, across 5,693 stores in 97 countries. He discussed Inditex’s commitment to democratizing fashion — making it accessible to all — and the key role their supply chain plays in the company’s ability to quickly adapt to trends. 

Additionally, García Maceiras emphasized the importance of supply chain audits and compliance efforts to maintain quality control and ensure ethical practices across the diverse supplier network. By continuously running audits, Inditex safeguards its commitment to responsible sourcing while maintaining the efficiency and responsiveness that have become the hallmarks of its business model. This meticulous attention to supply chain dynamics is a key strength that enables Inditex to remain competitive and responsive in the fast-paced retail environment.

García Maceiras also touched on the company’s substantial sustainability initiatives. He noted that Inditex has committed to reducing its environmental footprint through innovation. Key goals include a 50% reduction in total emissions and sourcing 100% of raw materials from sustainable sources by 2040. These efforts are supported by partnerships with startups and academic institutions. One example included the investment in the startup Galy, which focuses on growing cotton from stem cells. 

One of the key highlights of the event was García Maceiras’ emphasis on Inditex’s integrated approach to customer experience. By seamlessly merging online and in-store shopping, the company creates a unified and cohesive experience that allows customers to transition effortlessly between both platforms. This omnichannel strategy ensures that whether customers shop online or in physical stores, they receive the same level of service and product availability. With the launch of Zara Streaming — starting in China and expanding to the United States, Canada, Spain, and other countries — the company aims to continue to provide customers with an immersive experience that complements their physical stores.

Inditex’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, combined with its unique business model, has enabled the company to maintain a strong competitive edge in the ever-evolving retail landscape. García Maceiras’ presentation offered a thorough view into how the company navigates these challenges, from its rapid-response supply chain to its focus on sustainability and customer experience. The event provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how Inditex continues to set industry standards and remain at the forefront of global retail through continuous evolution and strategic adaptability.

Event Recording | Photos | Virtual Program

On Tuesday, July 16, the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business and Walsh School of Foreign Service hosted the US-Ukraine Reconstruction, Investment, and Innovation Forum. The forum featured a keynote address by Stephanie von Friedeburg, Managing Director at Citi; a Keynote Dialogue featuring Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Economy Tetyana Berezhna, USDFC’s Chief of Staff Jane Rhee, and USAID’s Senior Advisor for Ukraine Recovery Alex Tiersky; panels on Resilience and Reconstruction; and Renewal and Reinvention; and lunch remarks from Ukraine’s former First Lady Kateryna Yushchenko. 

The forum commenced with opening remarks from Michael Ryan, Teaching Professor of Global Business at Georgetown McDonough, Michael O’Leary,Teaching Professor and Senior Associate Dean at Georgetown McDonough,,Chemonics Chair Susanna Mudge, and Baratta Center Executive Director Anil Khurana. They underscored the importance of public-private partnerships and the pivotal role of technological advancements in  driving innovation, growth and the financial independence of Ukraine.

In her keynote address, Stephanie von Friedeburg noted that it was a war about democracy overcoming tyranny, highlighted the war’s devastating impact, and pointed out the long-term challenges for reconstruction. She emphasized six key elements for Ukraine’s recovery: air defense systems, a culture of rule of law, new risk management tools, sufficient capital, and social recovery (including the return of 5 million refugees).

The keynote dialogue, moderated by Walsh School of Foreign Service Professor Raj Desai,  focused on the adaptability of Ukrainian businesses amidst wartime challenges, emphasizing the critical need for workforce development and energy partnerships. Tiersky spoke about the historical context of USAID’s involvement since 1992 and the importance of stabilizing exports and agriculture. Rhee highlighted financial tools and partnerships with multilateral banks to bridge gaps in agriculture and manufacturing, while Deputy Minister Berezhna pointed to demographic challenges and the significant number of forced migrations, but also emphasized that Ukraine’s situation remains optimistic, citing a 5.3% growth in GDP that is projected to continue rising.

Panel 1 on resilience and reconstruction, moderated by former US Ambassador to Ukraine John Herbst, brought together former Deputy Minister of Ukraine Oleksandr Gryban, Dragon Capital’s Volodymyr Tymochko, Stephens Managing Director Max Blandon, and US-Ukraine Business Council Chair Eric Luhmann. The discussion focused on energy independence, technological innovation, and the essential role of American leadership. Panelists emphasized the urgency of decentralizing energy systems and preparing for winter with strategic plans for energy imports and local production. Tymochko discussed equity co-investments, while Gryban and Luhmann highlighted the need for transparency, and competition, and Blandon called for a Marshall Plan-like approach to rebuild Ukraine’s infrastructure. 

Panel 2 on renewal and reinvention, moderated by Chemonics’ Tetyana Dudka, featured insights from Horizon Capital’s Hanna Shuvalova, Microsoft’s Anupama Shekhar, Nova Ukraine’s Nick Bilogorskiy, and Medtronic’s Trevor Gunn. Shekhar discussed the transformative potential of AI and education, while other panelists highlighted medical equipment, community relations, private partnerships, and cultural preservation. 

The forum closed with remarks from First Lady Yushchenko, introduced by John Herbst, and a networking luncheon. First Lady Yushchenko emphasized the importance of psychological support, education programs, and the Sister City program. She stressed the need to protect Ukraine’s cultural heritage against disinformation and external threats, advocating for corporate sponsorships to promote historical research and cultural initiatives. First Lady Yushchenko led by example on this point, donating several books on Ukranian culture and Russian imperialism to Georgetown’s library, a tradition she shares with her husband, Former President Viktor Yushchenko whenever the pair visit universities.

Slides | Event Recording | Photos | Virtual Program

On Monday, June 17, the Baratta Center for Global Business hosted its inaugural Roundtable on the Global Food Value Chain, focusing on the profound impacts of climate change and conflict on the global food supply. The event featured a keynote address by Joyce Chang, Managing Director and Chair of Global Research at JPMorgan Chase, moderated by Matt McKenna, Adjunct Professor at Georgetown McDonough’s Business for Impact. Panelists included prominent figures such as Sean Callahan, President and CEO of Catholic Relief Services; Gally Mayer, Co-Founder of Buena Vida Specialty Coffee; Barron Segar, President and CEO of World Food Program USA; and Rajiv Singh, Co-Chair of FoodShot Global and Founder of New Epoch Capital.

Joyce Chang’s keynote address shed light on worldwide food insecurity, emphasizing the weaponization of food commodities amidst the War in Ukraine. She highlighted how extreme weather, climate change, and biodiversity loss exacerbate the global food crisis, contributing to higher food prices and agricultural commodity inflation. The discussion also touched on policy distortions from the pandemic, with numerous countries maintaining food export bans affecting global trade. Emerging markets, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and South America, face severe food shocks, resulting in soaring food inflation and inadequate food distribution.The panel discussion built on Chang’s themes, exploring access and distribution issues that prevent sufficient food from reaching the most vulnerable populations. Barron Segar emphasized the World Food Program’s focus on emergency assistance and innovation, while Gally Mayer and Sean Callahan stressed the importance of local-level solutions and consumer education. Rajiv Singh highlighted the need for long-term capital investments and collaboration between public and private sectors to drive sustainable agricultural practices. The roundtable underscored the need for an abundance mindset and innovative, sustainable solutions to address food security amidst the intertwined challenges of climate change and conflict.

Featuring Philippe Laffont, Joe Baratta (B’93), and Paul Rosen

A conversation about cross border investing and technology investments between Coatue Management Founder and CIO Philippe Laffont and Blackstone Global Head of Private Equity Joe Baratta (B’93), followed by a conversation with Assistant Secretary of the Treasury Paul Rosen, on the view of inbound and outbound technology investments and the role of Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.

His Excellency Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, Minister of Finance of Qatar, will join the Baratta Center to address important global issues, including the world economy, geopolitics, AI, and climate action, among others, in the context of Qatar’s economic development and its role in the global financial and energy systems.

Speaker – Jim Farley (C’85), President and CEO of Ford Motor Company

The Baratta Center for Global Business and the Office of Mission and Ministry at Georgetown University joined together to host Faithful Conversations, an ongoing series which features prominent business leaders sharing how Ignatian values have shaped them personally and professionally. 

In today’s business landscape, financial outcomes are no longer the only metrics of success. Increasingly it can be observed that our society values the impact that business has on community, health, sustainability, and faith. Join us to learn more about how today’s global business leaders are incorporating their faith into business practices.

Speakers – Joyce Chang, Chair of Global Research, J.P. Morgan Chase; Sanjay Mullick, General Counsel, Veryon;  Linda Yueh, Fellow in Economics, St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford; Ethan Treanor,  Deputy Director, Office of Investment Review and Investigation, U.S. Department of The Treasury

A panel of global experts came together for a discussion on de-risking cross-border investments impacted by national security. Moderated by Ashley Lenihan, professor of the practice in international affairs at the Walsh School of Foreign Service, the roundtable included diverse perspectives from representatives of J.P. Morgan Chase, Veryon, Oxford University, and the U.S. Department of Treasury.

The Baratta Center sponsored the U.S.-German Hydrogen Forum, organized by Christopher Perry (MA-IBP’23) and Michael Ryan, teaching professor of global business, as an official USA-Germany Climate and Energy Partnership bilateral forum to showcase the burgeoning hydrogen value chain/sector and important cooperation between the United States and Germany.

The Baratta Center hosted a roundtable on the auto and mobility value chain featuring key voices in the industry to discuss the auto-mobility transition, global supply chain disruptions, the evolution of EV ecosystems at both global and country levels, the importance of critical minerals and other supplies, and other topics.

Learn More

The first annual Future of Global Business Conference, hosted by Georgetown McDonough’s Baratta Center for Global Business brought together senior executives from the international business community, policymakers, and Georgetown faculty, students, and alumni for discussions on global value chains, cross-border investing, artificial intelligence, and the future of globalization
Speakers – Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo, Blackstone global head of private equity Joe Baratta (B’93), former Minister of Trade and Industry of Venezuela Moisés Naím