Barbara Hagedorn - Biography
Barbara Hagedorn – Visionary. Entrepreneur. Bridge Builder.
What feels like headwind to others is just a breath of fresh air for Barbara Hagedorn — fuel for bold ideas and real change.
“Well, little one, what are you doing here?” That was the question she was asked at 23, selling tires in a male-dominated industry. She didn’t answer with words — she proved herself through action. Again and again.
Next stop: the construction world. Barbara Hagedorn helped build the Hagedorn Group into one of the most successful demolition and remediation companies in the world:
- 4th largest demolition company globally
- Over 2,000 employees
- Awarded “Employer of the Future”
These milestones represent more than business success — they reflect her belief in leadership with heart, culture with courage, and progress with purpose.
But Barbara isn’t one to settle. Today, she channels her energy into FutureWE — a consulting firm she founded to help organizations lead with clarity, humanity, and conviction. Through FutureWE, she advises companies on building resilient cultures, navigating transformation, and leading with values in times of change. Alongside this work, she is also an active investor, supporting entrepreneurs and leaders who are shaping the future of work with integrity and substance.
Her mission remains consistent: to redefine leadership and corporate culture — not as buzzwords, but as lived responsibility. She builds bridges between generations, genders, and organizational structures. Her approach is no-nonsense, grounded, and deeply human.
She says: “As a woman, you always have to explain more than a man – or you simply go ahead and let your actions speak for themselves.”
Keynote Topics
- “Women in Construction, Voices in Transition – How Diversity Really Drives Companies Forward”
Why diversity isn’t a nice-to-have — but a business necessity. - “From the Construction Container to the CEO’s Office – Rethinking Leadership for the Future”
25 years of entrepreneurship turned into insight for a new generation of leadership. - “Conviction over Comfort – Why Companies Must Be Uncomfortably Courageous Now”
A call for attitude, responsibility, and transformation in uncertain times. - “The Future We Lead – How Purpose-Driven Companies Build Long-Term Success”
Insights from FutureWE and beyond: how culture becomes competitive advantage.
Barbara Hagedorn is a passionate speaker who brings energy instead of ego, clarity instead of cliché, and lived experience instead of theory.
Those who hear her speak walk away inspired — and ready to act.