The CEO Expat Journey: Leadership Beyond Borders

From a Small Slovenian Town to a Global Life

Singapore — Raised in a close-knit town in Slovenia, Igor Vincetic grew up surrounded by strong values, family warmth, and a deep sense of community. Early in his life, he made a clear decision: his career would take him beyond borders. That choice marked the beginning of a long journey in global mobility, turning him into what many would call a serial expat.

His first expatriation was a turning point — and not an easy one. The challenge didn’t come from the destination itself, but from the internal transformation it triggered. As often observed in expat coaching, moving abroad is never only a logistical or professional shift. It is, above all, a deeply human experience — one that starts within.

The Inner Emotional Journey of Expatriation

Igor recalls:

“I’ve always been a positive, energetic person. Yet when I arrived in the US, I was caught off guard by intense emotional ups and downs. One moment I felt motivated and driven, the next I felt isolated, drained, and unexpectedly homesick. I barely recognized myself.”

This emotional turbulence forced him to confront something unavoidable: inner work.For any expat — and especially for leaders and CEOs navigating international roles — self-reflection is not optional. It is the gateway to clarity, resilience, and growth.

Avoiding this internal adjustment only delays adaptation. Embracing it, on the other hand, opens access to opportunities that were previously invisible.

Three Mindset Shifts That Changed Everything

1. Self-awareness builds resilience

Igor realized that understanding his emotional patterns, reactions, and needs was not a luxury — it was essential.

“The more aware I became of my triggers, the faster I adapted. Challenges stopped feeling like obstacles and became learning moments.”

For global leaders, self-awareness is a strategic asset — one that supports decision-making under pressure.

2. I lead my journey — I don’t drift through it

Happiness, Igor learned, doesn’t come from geography.

“True fulfillment begins the moment you take responsibility for how you interpret your reality. I don’t let circumstances define me — I define how I engage with them.”

This shift is especially powerful for CEOs on international assignments, where uncertainty is constant.

3. Relationships matter more than location

Expatriation is built on human connection.

“The quality of my relationships shaped my experience far more than the country itself.”

Belonging, trust, and community became key pillars of his well-being abroad.

From Inner Work to Cultural Adaptation

That deep personal work paid off.Once the foundation was solid, future relocations became smoother.

Instead of questioning himself, Igor focused on external adaptation: understanding company culture, national norms, leadership expectations, and social codes. His mindset was prepared to learn, perform, and grow in complex global environments.

“When you operate at a high level, your family is part of the system. And the higher you go, the more demanding the game becomes.”

This is a common challenge in global mobility — not due to lack of intention, but lack of time, tools, and support.

When Family Joins the Expat Equation

Parenthood adds another layer to expatriation.Igor’s children were born in Singapore and are now four years old. Watching them discover the world through fresh eyes has been both grounding and transformative.

Raising children abroad is a shared learning journey — one that requires presence, flexibility, and patience. Some days flow effortlessly; others bring emotional storms. Each moment becomes an opportunity for growth.

Leadership Begins at Home

Even young children don’t always express what they truly feel.

“A simple ‘I’m fine’ can hide frustration or confusion. I’ve learned to slow down, observe the details, and really listen.”

Despite a demanding executive role, Igor realized that leadership principles apply everywhere — from the boardroom to the family table.

“Just like in business, we support our team so they can thrive. That responsibility doesn’t stop at work.”

The Unseen Side of Expat Success

High-level roles come with high expectations.

From the outside, expat life can look glamorous — curated images, exciting locations, professional success. But behind the scenes, there are long hours, pressure, responsibility, and constant trade-offs.

“This balance works for me today. And I know it will evolve as my children grow and life changes.”

For CEOs abroad, sustainability is never static — it requires regular recalibration.

Sustainable Leadership in a Global Context

Staying anchored in core values is what makes leadership sustainable over time.

Igor is clear:

“Knowing who I am and what I stand for guides every decision I make.”

His personal leadership framework rests on three pillars:

• Clear values and non-negotiables

• Continuous inner work and self-awareness

• Willingness to seek support through coaching, mentoring, or trusted peers

“The higher you climb, the clearer it becomes that leadership is never a solo journey.”

Flexibility, growth, and genuine connection are what allow leadership — especially in expatriation — to last.

Conclusion

Igor’s journey highlights an essential truth:Behind every high-performing expat CEO, there is a deeply human story — filled with uncertainty, inner work, and transformation.

Expatriation is not just a career move. It is lifelong learning process that challenges identity, values, leadership style, and relationships.

Ultimately, success in global mobility doesn’t come from adapting to everything around you — but from aligning who you are with the life you choose to build abroad.

Anne Guslandi 🌐