Barbara Humpton, CEO, Siemens Corporation
Barbara is president and CEO of Siemens Corporation - the US subsidiary of Siemens AG, a multinational technology company. Barbara guides the company’s strategy and engagement in serving the company’s largest market. She previously served as president and CEO of Siemens Government Technologies, Inc. Prior to joining Siemens in 2011, Barbara served as a vice president at Booz Allen Hamilton and Lockheed Martin Corporation. She is chair of the Siemens Corporation Board, the Siemens Foundation and the Center for Strategic and Budgetary Assessments. She serves on the board of directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Triumph Group, Fluence Energy, National Association of Manufacturers, and the Economic Club of Washington, D.C.
Get to know Barbara:
What is a question you’re asking yourself about your leadership and the transformation you’re trying to drive?
How can I have more impact? I have the privilege to lead Siemens USA, a business with an incredible portfolio and a team of experts who are capable of tackling big problems. While we're delivering great business results, what more can we be doing to ensure the world meets our sustainable development goals? Time is short.
What do you want to learn on the Future Quest, and what do you want to contribute?
I want to learn about networks I may not yet be involved in. My intuition is telling me I should be bringing Siemens' know-how into new fields. For example, this year I've focused on reaching early-stage investors to show them how our technology can accelerate the growth of their companies. My perspectives on the systems-of-systems we work in will help other participants see new opportunities.
What strength has served you well in the past - that you may need to evolve beyond for the next stage?
Tact, nuance, diplomacy - these are strengths that serve me well in my highly matrixed, complex business organization. Energy, enthusiasm and 'disarming charm' have been my brand throughout my career. Do I need to leave these behind? I hope not. I'd prefer to leverage those skills and raise my voice for greater impact. I'd like to enjoy building coalitions and rallying people to action.
Where is your happy place and why?
Lexington, Virginia, where I was raised. It's a community nestled in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. With two colleges and a vibrant community, there's always something going on in town. My dad used to say every important world event has a nexus to Lexington. And when it's time to unplug from learning, working and creating, there's no end of places to relax and play - mountains, rivers, caves, and more!
