Interpreneur insight: The value of trusted relationships in global business
June 10, 2026
Trusted relationships in global business can be the difference between success and failure when expanding internationally.
On June 11 2026, we will be launching the results of our latest Interpreneur (international entrepreneur) survey. We surveyed 1,100 mid-market business leaders across 11 countries, asking 11 key questions about their experience of going global. From opportunities and barriers to future ambitions, the findings offer valuable insight into what it takes to succeed internationally.
Ahead of the report launch, we spoke to business leaders who have first-hand experience of operating across borders to understand how international growth works in practice.
Interview with Markus Kalmes, INEOS Aromatics & Styrolution
In this conversation, Markus Kalmes, Head of Group Tax & Global Compliance at INEOS Aromatics & Styrolution, joins Jose Padilla, Tax and Legal Partner at Kreston BSG, and Andrew Griggs, Senior Partner and Head of Global at Kreston Reeves and Board Chair of Kreston Global. Together, they bring perspectives from industry, advisory and international business to explore the realities of operating across borders. Drawing on decades of experience, the discussion examines how businesses can balance global oversight with local expertise, respond to changing market conditions and build the relationships needed to support long-term international growth.
While international expansion often focuses on strategy, investment and market opportunity, Markus argues that long-term success depends just as much on trust. Whether managing teams across multiple jurisdictions, entering unfamiliar markets or working with advisors around the world, relationships remain at the heart of effective global business.
Drawing on more than a decade of leading international tax and compliance functions, Markus shares his perspective on the challenges facing multinational organisations in an increasingly uncertain world. The discussion covers everything from geopolitical volatility and regulatory change to the growing importance of local knowledge, cultural awareness and empowering teams on the ground.
The conversation also explores why Latin America continues to attract international investment despite economic and political uncertainty. Markus and Jose discuss the realities of operating in fast-changing markets, the importance of balancing global governance with local decision-making, and why businesses that succeed internationally are often those that can adapt quickly while maintaining a clear strategic direction.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion is the value of trusted relationships. From managing internal teams to selecting external advisors, Markus explains why technical expertise alone is rarely enough. The businesses that succeed internationally are often those that invest time in understanding local markets, building strong partnerships and creating networks of people they can rely on when conditions change.
For leaders responsible for international growth, the discussion offers practical insight into balancing global oversight with local decision-making, while building the relationships that help organisations adapt and grow across borders.
Watch and listen
Episode one: The challenges and opportunities of expanding globally
The panel discuss the key tax, regulatory, operational and geopolitical considerations businesses must navigate to successfully expand and grow in international markets.
Episode two: Investing in emerging markets
Our experts explore why Latin America continues to attract global investment, highlighting its growth potential, strategic location, natural resources, digital innovation, and the importance of local expertise in navigating complex and evolving markets.
Episode three: Culture and relationship building
Andrew, Markus and Jose discuss how trust, cultural awareness, strong relationships and local empowerment are essential for overcoming cross-border business challenges and achieving successful international growth.
Watch the episode
Episode four: OECD application globally
Markus Kalmes and Kreston experts examine the evolving adoption of OECD standards across Latin America, highlighting the region’s growing alignment with global tax frameworks, increasing digitalisation, and the opportunities and challenges of balancing international standards with local realities.
Episode five: Building your team
The panel discuss the qualities that define effective advisory partnerships, highlighting the importance of technical expertise, responsiveness, trust, commercial understanding and collaborative teamwork in delivering long-term business value.
