Bridging Complexity with Clarity: Bearna Anderson on Redefining Global Mobility
13th October 2025
Date
Interviewee
Berna Anderson
In this exclusive conversation with Legal Bridge, Berna Anderson—an accomplished mobility leader with over 25 years of industry experience—shares her journey from expat tax consulting to spearheading global mobility programs and initiatives across diverse sectors including pharma, engineering, oil field services, and medtech. Her insights reveal not only the intricate challenges of immigration and relocation but also the fundamental need for technological innovation and clearer communication in this evolving landscape.
Background
Berna’s career began on the big four consultancy side, where she specialized in expat tax—a role that sparked her interest in Global Mobility. Transitioning into in-house roles, she has now held her fifth mobility leadership position, managing programs for organizations ranging from small teams to large populations of over 2,400 employees. Berna’s journey took her across continents—from Germany to the United States and Switzerland—providing her with a multifaceted perspective on global mobility.
Reflecting on her transition into this field, Berna explains:
“I started in tax and quickly discovered the fascinating world of international assignments. I have had the fortune to lead mobility programs across different industries. That exposure made me realize that each program is unique, driven not just by size but also by the industry dynamics.”
Her extensive experience across sectors has equipped her with the expertise to handle the varied demands of mobility programs, from Talent Mobility Strategy, to policies as well as immigration administration and tax-related complexities.
Navigating the Evolving Global Mobility Landscape
The Human Element of Immigration
Berna underscores the emotional and psychological dimensions of immigration—a process that, despite being routine for many, carries significant personal stakes. Given her vast experience, she emphasizes the inherent anxiety and uncertainty that many immigrants experience:
“Every immigrant in the U.S. on a visa recognizes that they are on a temporary status creating sensitivity and anxiety. Navigating the complexities of the immigration landscape requires expert support especially when there are changes in immigration policies.”
This empathetic understanding drives her approach to managing mobility programs, ensuring that employees feel supported throughout their journey.
Challenges in Communication and Process Management
One of the most pressing issues Berna identifies is the complexity and inefficiency in current immigration communication. She challenges the overly legalistic language used by some attorneys, which can confuse even seasoned professionals:
Moreover, Berna highlights the redundancy in data submission and process updates. Despite advances in technology, she notes that many platforms remain archaic, leading to inefficiencies that affect both employees and mobility teams.
Leveraging Technology to Streamline Mobility
The Promise of AI and Automation
Berna is a strong advocate for integrating advanced technology into mobility processes. She believes that artificial intelligence could revolutionize communication by automating routine tasks, sending timely reminders, and simplifying legal jargon. As she puts it:
“Why can’t AI send a text message reminding someone about their medical appointment or explain a complex priority date in plain language?”
This potential for automation isn’t just about reducing workload; it’s about transforming the user experience and making immigration less daunting.
Collaboration with External Providers
In her current role, Berna relies on an external provider for managing immigration applications. She praises the specialization of these providers, noting that outsourcing ensures a higher degree of accuracy and expertise:
“We don’t prepare any applications in house as our immigration providers are the experts who know best not only to complete the application but see the entire immigration process through.
Yet, even with expert support, Berna sees room for improvement. Some of the communication tools could enhance to better serve both internal teams and immigrant clients, reducing the friction caused by delayed responses and convoluted instructions.
Building a Collaborative Future in Global Mobility
Berna’s vision for the future of global mobility is one where technology and human empathy converge. She encourages a more intuitive, transparent approach to managing immigration processes, one that demystifies timelines and requirements for employees. Her call to action is clear:
“We need to debunk the mystery of immigration. If we can clearly explain the process from start to finish, it will be easier for everyone involved.”
Her forward-thinking perspective invites legal professionals, HR leaders, and technology providers to collaborate in creating a more user-friendly, efficient system that not only meets regulatory requirements but also enhances the overall employee experience.
Conclusion & Join the Conversation
Berna Anderson’s insights provide a compelling look into the challenges and opportunities within global mobility today. Her emphasis on simplifying communication, leveraging technology, and maintaining empathy in the immigration process offers a roadmap for transforming how organizations manage international assignments.
We invite legal professionals, mobility experts, and technology innovators to join the conversation. Share your thoughts on how we can collectively demystify immigration and build a more efficient future for global mobility. For further insights and detailed discussions, follow Legal Bridge’s blog and connect with us on our social channels.
This article is based on an exclusive interview with Berna Anderson, whose deep expertise in global mobility and immigration is reshaping the way we think about international assignments.
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