Randstad and TIAS: Gold Award – Best Leadership Program

“We’re incredibly proud to have achieved this together once again,” says Iris Musters, L&D Business Partner at TIAS. “It’s a recognition of our hard work and a reflection of how impactful this program truly is—successful both in its unique collaboration and in the results it creates.”

This year, the Future Executive Program APAC (FEP APAC) took home the award. FEP is a leadership program for Randstad’s high potentials, designed to strengthen their leadership profile and build a future-proof talent pipeline. With a promotion rate of 34% and an NPS score of 88.2%, the program proves its real-world impact.

Developed through a unique collaboration between Randstad, TIAS, and Singapore Management University (SMU), this hybrid program has been running for almost ten years. It has an impressive track record—evident in the many internal promotions among participants and the expansion to FEP Europe and FEP US.

Co-creation beyond borders

Having collaborated with Randstad since 1999, TIAS has developed deep insights into the HR services industry and Randstad’s specific position and strategy within it. Even more importantly, the level of trust between both organizations is exceptionally high.

However, ten years ago Randstad faced a new challenge: expanding into the APAC region. Although TIAS had extensive expertise in leadership and HR, developing a successful program in this region required a strong local partner. That’s why TIAS joined forces with Singapore Management University (SMU), which brought essential regional knowledge and experience.

Together, TIAS and SMU combined complementary expertise and co-created Randstad’s talent development program from the ground up. Rather than working in isolation, they chose to share knowledge openly.
“There were never any so-called ‘Chinese walls’ between TIAS and SMU,” says Prof. Dr. Filip Caeldries, Academic Director of FEP and Professor of Strategy. “We’ve always operated as true partners—and that partnership has been key to our success.”

SMU also took the lead in engaging with local managers, supported by Randstad’s regional headquarters being located in Singapore. This formed the foundation of a collaboration that went far beyond knowledge sharing: a partnership driving sustainable growth and development across the region.

The power of customization

As co-design partner of FEP APAC, Iris Musters oversees the program design, while Prof. Dr. Filip Caeldries—involved with Randstad programs for over 20 years—serves as lead faculty and academic director.

Working closely with Karolien van Montfoort, Senior Manager Global Learning & Development, Iris is proud of the recognition.

“This award is truly a celebration of our joint effort,” she says. “We see the program’s impact both on individual leaders and on the organization as a whole. It also represents the ultimate form of collaboration between Randstad, TIAS, and SMU. Over the years, we’ve continuously challenged each other to reach for the highest possible standards—and that has led to tangible results.”

“For many years, we’ve built the leaders of tomorrow together with TIAS and SMU,” adds Karolien van Montfoort. “The Gold Award not only recognizes the program itself but also the strength of co-creation and shared values. It proves that when partners invest in long-term trust and openness, you can create sustainable impact that strengthens the organization from within.”

“As you get to know the organization deeply, you understand the context and the participants’ questions,” says Filip Caeldries. “That empathy—‘you know where they come from’—is rooted in understanding. Knowing what lies behind a question is essential.”

Over the years, the program has evolved through the Kaizen principle of continuous improvement—each new FEP cohort just a bit better than the previous one, in both content and design. The core themes, personal leadership and running the business, are refreshed regularly with new simulations, speakers, and learning goals.
“This can only happen within a partnership built on mutual trust,” Filip explains.

Randstad’s management also plays a crucial role by showing full confidence in the program. “They give us the sense that participants are in good hands,” says Filip. “That trust allows us to have open discussions with participants—creating a psychologically safe learning environment.”

Impact and growth

The FEP was designed to prepare the next generation of leaders—and it has succeeded. With a promotion rate of 34%, participants clearly progress in their careers. The program also fosters a strong regional network, contributing to Randstad’s strategic regional agenda.

A key component of the program is the 48-hour Pressure Cooker, which drives measurable ROI: most business challenges (sponsored by senior management) are now in various stages of implementation.

With an NPS score of 88.2%, participants clearly value the experience.
“We help participants gain confidence in their leadership roles,” says Filip. “We provide them with tools, ideas, and concepts that enrich their managerial toolkit—resulting in a real boost in confidence.”

He adds: “Participants continue to connect long after the program ends. A genuine community of peers emerges—collaborating, advising, and exchanging insights. Tremendous social capital is created, both within and across cohorts. That legacy is invaluable. When we talk about impact—this is something we can be truly proud of.”

Putting the participant at the center

Interested in developing a customized leadership program for your organization?
Send us a message at incompany@tias.edu or book an introductory meeting directly.