Stockholm 2024: Livingstone’s Annual Global Retreat

Each year, all employees at Livingstone eagerly anticipate the Annual Global Retreat—a cherished tradition that unites colleagues from around the world for days of connection, collaboration, and celebration. After the vibrant gathering in Amsterdam last year, the 2024 retreat brought us to the breathtaking city of Stockholm. Over 120 Livingstonians converged to create new memories and strengthen the bonds within our ever-growing community.

The retreat launched with enthusiasm as teams competed in a lively boule tournament at Boulebar. Strategic plays and spirited rivalries set the stage for intense competition. The victorious team proudly claimed their boule medals amidst cheers and applause from their fellow Livingstonians. The celebration continued at a rooftop bar, where we mingled, danced, and soaked in the stunning views of Stockholm’s skyline.

Friday morning was dedicated to Livingstone-style business. Our Chairmen, Ralph Hagelgans and Andrew Isgrig, welcomed us warmly. We reviewed our key milestones and achievements, received an inspiring update on the Livingstone Foundation’s latest initiatives, and were introduced to our new offices and teams in Italy and South Korea, along with our new partners in the Benelux region.

Afterward, we explored best practices for our new CRM solution, gaining valuable insights to enhance strategies and streamline processes. The day also featured a compelling presentation on AI, exploring its potential impact on our industry. The spotlight then turned to the highly anticipated “Deal of the Year 2024” presentations. Bankers from each office showcased their most complex deals, detailing the challenges and innovative solutions involved. After thorough deliberation, a standout deal was chosen as the winner, earning its team the exciting opportunity to visit any Livingstone office of their choice.

Post conference, we embarked on a thrilling speedboat ride to Badholmen, a charming island in the archipelago near Vaxholm. The exhilarating speed of around 50 miles per hour, together with splendid views, set the stage for the day’s festivities. Upon arrival, a live band welcomed us, creating an immediate sense of festivity.

The highlight of our time on Badholmen was the kräftskiva, the traditional Swedish crayfish party. With beautifully set tables, we eagerly embraced the hands-on dining experience. Schnapps flowed freely, while lively Swedish songs filled the air, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and fun. As the band played a medley of rock, pop, and ABBA classics, we danced, sang, and celebrated, fully immersing ourselves in the Swedish tradition.

Saturday combined excitement with nostalgia as we gathered at Gröna Lund amusement park for a pentathlon that tested our agility, precision, and teamwork. The games, including the 10-meter high striker, Whac-a-Mole, air rifle shooting, Roll-a-ball horse racing, and Pop-a-Shot, sparked friendly rivalries and lots of laughter. Our Stockholm adventure concluded with nights out at some of the city’s most iconic clubs, where vibrant music, dazzling lights, and great company kept us celebrating into the early hours. It was the perfect ending to a weekend filled with joy, learning, and deepened connections.

Livingstone’s Annual Global Retreat is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of our shared achievements and a testament to the strength of our partnership. Reflecting on our time in Stockholm, we are grateful for the memories made and the connections renewed. Here’s to another remarkable year and the exciting adventures that lie ahead!