Strategies for Mobility Leaders in 2025

When it comes to defining strategy, one insightful perspective from Cascade stands out: 

Strategy is a plan of actions that fit together to reach a clear destination. That destination is dictated by a set of decisions that sets the organization apart from its competitors, derives from the organization’s unique characteristics, and is hard to emulate

In the realm of global mobility, a good strategy aligns seamlessly with your organization's overall business goals. It should be executable, measurable, and adaptable, grounded in current realities while guiding your initiatives. But what does that really look like?

A robust strategy identifies and prioritizes key focus areas to achieve your overarching goals. In our Global Mobility Trends Report,, we spotlighted the Top 5 Global Mobility Priorities for 2024, as articulated by mobility leaders. Here’s what they emphasized:

1. Streamlining processes and creating more efficiencies 
2. Improving the employee experience 
3. Cost Containment/reduction
4. Policy work: adding, removing, or revising policies  
5. Aligning with talent strategy (attracting/retaining employees) 

Does your mobility program have a clearly articulated strategy with specific goals that have been prioritized?  Were your priorities this past year aligned with the broader business and talent strategies of your company? 

According to the 2024 KPMG Global Mobility Benchmarking Survey, 72% of respondents highlighted that the alignment of mobility strategies with broader business objectives was one of their top three priorities indicating that the role has evolved into being a strategic enabler to the business that can help unlock and drive growth while maximizing employee value. The survey results showed that 89% of global mobility leaders anticipate that their program will remain just as strategic or become even more strategic in the next 12–18 months. 

The report shares that there is a need for serious collaboration and alignment between mobility and talent. 70 percent of respondents consider talent development, attraction and retention a top priority. 

However, there’s a gap. One in five programs report that their strategy is known only within their team, leaving internal stakeholders in the dark. To elevate your mobility program and gain recognition as a strategic player, consider these four key items:

1. Map Your Stakeholders: Take time to identify and understand your key internal stakeholders—recognize their roles, strategies, and pain points. Determine how mobility can align with their needs and objectives.
2. Document Your Strategy: Develop a clearly articulated global mobility strategy and seek feedback from senior leaders to ensure alignment and buy-in.
3. Build Your Brand: Create a compelling brand that reflects your strategy, showcasing the value that mobility brings to the organization and how it supports overall strategic objectives.
4. Collaborate with Talent Teams: Engage with talent departments to co-create initiatives and celebrate successes throughout the year. Regularly report on your collaborative efforts to highlight the impact of mobility.
    

By focusing on these areas, you can foster a more strategic approach to global mobility that not only supports your organization’s goals but also enhances the overall employee experience.