Executive MBA Programs

Why choose the ESSEC & MANNHEIM EMBA

I chose the ESSEC & MANNHEIM EMBA because the program structure was ideal for what I was looking for. It focuses on teamwork in intensive modules. It provides the ideal balance to learn not only from the lectures but also from your classmates.

A smart move is to really think about why you want to be in the program. Even before I applied, I knew this was the program for me. I contacted admissions first, then alumni to get their perspective. The most important part of the EMBA is not just the classes, but the overall experience that you have to enjoy.

Getting into the program

Contact with the Admissions Manager was a very pleasant experience. She was very friendly and informative. Her focus was really on checking my motivation for joining the EMBA and helping me to understand the challenges and what to expect from the program. A big plus was that she put me in touch with several alumni before I formally applied. After applying, she was also helpful in checking that everything went well and continued to guide and help me through the process.

When I was accepted into the program, I was really happy. It does take some effort to apply, to manage your personal finances, to prepare all the documents required for the application, and to prepare for the interviews themselves. It is like applying for a job, and in the end you are always relieved to get an offer as a “reward”.

Meeting my classmates for the first time

I still remember the first moments when I met my classmates for the first time. I was very nervous when I walked into La Defense. But the program was set up in such a way that the first course helped tremendously in "team building" and getting to know your classmates. It was amazing how quickly you could feel the diversity of everyone's experiences. At that moment I realized that the program was the right choice and that I would learn amazing things.

Focus on the right things!

The highlight of the program for me was the Outdoor Leadership Training. It really provides a very deep insight into your own abilities as a leader, and it also confronts you with your own shortcomings. In terms of challenge, it is really the impact of the program on your whole life. Juggling your regular work, family life, and studies at certain times is challenging in terms of managing it all. But in doing so, you learn the greatest lesson of the program: Focus on the right things!

I think the most important thing is to be prepared for that impact. This means that your spouse and children need to be on board. You also have to be willing to put your personal needs at the bottom of your priority list for 18 months. This can be quite intense and demanding, but I think it makes sense to prepare mentally and also to align yourself with your peers.

Changed perspectives and open doors

I would say that the biggest benefit is really a change in the way you see the world, both personally and professionally. And this change of perspective gradually changes your thoughts and subsequently your behavior to be "better". It's not about getting a better job offer when you graduate or having more respect because of your title. It's about gaining new insights and the ability to gain new insights. Doors are more likely to open for curious students than for professionals.

Getting into the program

The idea of pursuing an Executive MBA had long captivated my imagination and I had set my sights on various programs. It was my husband who told me about the outstanding reputation of Mannheim Business School (MBS) when we relocated to Germany and had to consider the practicalities of travelling to classes and having a young child.

When I first contacted the admissions manager, she identified the joint Executive MBA with ESSEC Business School as a compelling option, especially since ESSEC has a reputation for fostering entrepreneurial talent and I had already contemplated launching a startup. The program instantly resonated with me, and I applied.

I plunged headlong into the application process, determined to make my mark. As I diligently crafted my essays, I sought guidance from friends who had already embarked on their MBA journeys in the UK and the US. Their invaluable expertise became my compass, helping me ensure that my responses accurately addressed the essay requirements and showcased my true potential.

Embarking on this crazy, exhilarating ride

When I was notified that I was accepted into the program, I went through a whirlwind of emotions, a delightful cocktail of happiness, ecstasy and mild anxiety. My daughter was barely seven months old. It hit me like a ton of bricks that pursuing my Executive MBA would mean being away from her on those dreaded study trips. Yet, amidst this emotional rollercoaster, a flicker of excitement sparked within me, since the road ahead promised an exhilarating journey of knowledge and growth. Despite the tinge of separation anxiety, I couldn’t help but eagerly anticipate the adventures awaiting me. It was time to buckle up, embrace the unknown and embark on this crazy, exhilarating ride called an Executive MBA.

When I sat in class for the first time, an overwhelming sense of exhilaration washed over me, igniting an indescribable joy within. You see, I’ve forever been enamored by the art of connection, thriving on the opportunity to engage with individuals from various walks of life and soak up the rich tapestry of diverse cultures. Having had the great opportunity to work with so many people from different cultures across the globe, the prospect of embarking on an Executive MBA journey only amplified my passion for forging new relationships. And oh, what a class we were! Representing over 22 nationalities!

Family as support network

Amidst the intense training and personal growth, I faced my own unique set of challenges. As a mother, leaving my daughter behind and venturing outside of Mannheim was a heart-wrenching experience. However, I was fortunate to have an incredible support system in place. Her father and my sister, ever supportive, stepped in to lend a helping hand. My sister even made the journey from London to assist, easing the pain of separation and reminding me that I was not alone.

Their unwavering support and presence alleviated the difficulties, providing solace and reassurance during those tough moments. It reminded me that while the journey may be arduous, I had a network of loved ones cheering me on, ready to lend their support whenever needed. With their help, the experience became more bearable, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the transformative process. It reinforced the importance of a solid support system and the unwavering love that sustains us through challenging times.

Personal highlights

Among the myriad moments etched in my memory, one personal highlight still shines brightly—the leadership and military training we underwent at Saint-Cyr in France. It was a pivotal experience, marked by challenges, exhilaration and an unwavering commitment to building our leadership skills.

In the blink of an eye, our cohort went from being mere acquaintances to a tightly knit team, thanks to the unique environment we were thrust into. Saint-Cyr demanded nothing short of our best, pushing us beyond our limits and encouraging us to rise to the occasion. It was an environment designed to forge leaders out of raw potential, and it did just that.

Through shared trials and triumphs, we not only formed lasting bonds but also discovered and embraced our distinct leadership styles. Looking back, those moments of separation served as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience we possess as individuals. Nearly five years have passed and yet, the impact of that time remains. It serves as a constant reminder of the incredible personal and professional growth we experienced together, and the lasting bonds we formed along the way.

Founding my own company

The program has been a game changer for my professional growth, providing invaluable support in transforming my idea into a startup. Not only have I forged incredible connections with fellow participants in my cohort, I have also joined some of the MBS clubs, cultivating meaningful relationships with accomplished alumni. It has been an extraordinary journey of personal and professional development.

With MBS alumni excelling in Germany’s top industries, there’s potential for powerful business connections. We can still improve and connect even more at the business level to support each other’s career growth.

Realizing a long-cherished dream

My program selection was subjective from the beginning. I had already completed my first degree as Diplomkaufmann at the University of Mannheim between 1995 and 2001, so the Executive MBA felt like coming home to me. During my first degree program, I did an ERASMUS exchange to Swansea in 1999–2000. But ESSEC Business School in Paris had been high on my shortlist of destinations as well. So it was great that I managed to go there a few years later.

I had been in contact with the admissions team since 2009, but it took me another nine years to finally apply. During that time, I was stationed in Istanbul for an international company, constantly following Mannheim Business School and the international rankings throughout the years. After returning to Germany, I felt now was the time to apply, because now I had gathered enough experience and seniority.

To prepare for the application, I made use of the detailed descriptions on the homepage. I also attended an Open Day and visited a class. During that day, I spoke with some of the alumni, but mostly prepared for the application process by myself. When MBS contacted me and told me I was accepted, I felt relieved, honored and very happy to complete the process and start this EMBA program after nine years of “waiting” for the right time.

When I finally met my classmates for the first time, I felt kind of nervous and I was wondering if I would be able to match, meet and follow the class at that high level. I was hoping to gain new insights and new perspectives after spending nearly 17 years in the aerospace and defense industry at Airbus and Rolls-Royce Power Systems. And that is what I did in the program. I felt that I had enough space for my self-development in an environment with highly educated teammates. I could learn and confirm what I felt had been my strengths and weaknesses throughout my professional career. For me, that in itself was a highlight of the program.

What also had a lasting impact on me was some of the professors who imparted their personal insights and values to us. Prof. Kakabadse in Strategic Leadership and Prof. Bibard in Ethics confirmed that business is not solely about business and can only thrive in the broader context of values and culture. The Outdoor Leadership Training at Saint-Cyr was also something to remember.

Concerning juggling my studies, job and personal obligations during the program, I was a little lucky. I quit my position as CFO at Rolls-Royce Power Systems and had the luxury of studying nearly full-time for 10 to 11 months. During the second part of the program, I started to work again at ABB Germany, however it was great that my employer respected how important my studies were to me and gave me the flexibility to concentrate on the courses. Despite this, the program was still challenging for me, and I express my deepest respect to those who did not have the luxury I had.

Looking back, I would say the program helped me in my personal development and boosted my career by giving me the opportunity to develop my management and leadership expertise outside of the aerospace and defense industry. Having access to the MBS Network is quite useful, particularly in the event of concrete business problems. At my current job, we recently had a question regarding some accounting and tax procedures for China. Through the network, I easily got in touch with someone who had the information we needed to help us tackle this problem.

Becoming a Transformational and Impactful Leader

After working in operational and strategic HR for over 14 years and being responsible for the full spectrum of HR functions, I wanted to challenge myself and expand my skills beyond my current role. Throughout my career at BASF, I have gained extensive experience leading diverse HR teams in emerging markets such as the Middle East, West Asia, CIS and Africa. In 2020, I took on a Global HRBP position at the headquarters in Germany to broaden the scope of my expertise. And I believe that undertaking the ESSEC & MANNHEIM EMBA program will help me to enhance my business acumen and personal brand, while providing me with the necessary tools to re-establish my leadership capacity as a woman in the multicultural global aspect. My goal is to become a transformational and impactful leader in my organization and beyond, adapting to the new unprecedented times we live in.

From Strangers to Close-Knit Community

Walking into my class and meeting my classmates for the first time was an exciting and energizing experience. I was genuinely curious and thrilled about the diverse group of individuals I would be learning with. What amazed me the most was how quickly we went from being strangers to building bridges and forming connections from day one.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the program presented its fair share of challenges, they ultimately resulted in significant personal and professional growth for me. These challenges pushed me to go beyond my limits, adapt to new situations, work with diverse teams, and further cultivate my resilience. And I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support of my community, including my leaders at BASF, my colleagues, my EMBA classmates, my personal coach, my friends and, most importantly, my family, who stood by me throughout this transformative journey!

Looking back, the ESSEC & MANNHEIM EMBA has played a significant role in my professional and personal development as well as my career trajectory. The program has provided numerous benefits that have positively influenced my journey. First and foremost, the EMBA program has significantly expanded my professional network. Interacting with a diverse cohort of talented individuals from various industries and backgrounds has allowed me to establish meaningful connections and build valuable relationships beyond the program itself. In addition, the program allowed me to take time for personal coaching and invest in my long-term development. 

As a direct result of my EMBA experience, new and exciting opportunities have presented themselves. One such opportunity I recently accepted is the role of Global People and Culture Lead for BASF Automotive Refinish Coatings. This position fits perfectly with my career aspirations and allows me to apply the knowledge, skills and network I have gained through the EMBA program.

In conclusion, the ESSEC & MANNHEIM EMBA has been instrumental in my professional and personal development. It has expanded my network, provided access to personal coaching, fostered cognitive diversity and led to new and exciting opportunities. I am grateful for the transformative impact the program has had on my career and life as a whole.

I decided for the ESSEC & MANNHEIM Executive MBA because the public sector also needs knowledgeable managers and leaders. Taking a look beyond your environment is crucial for innovation in management. Challenging yourself in a new environment facilitates out-of-the-box thinking and innovative change.

I am an adjunct professor. Going back to school made me reexperience the student situation. This was a humbling experience and an opportunity I would not want to have missed!

When I started the program, I had not foreseen the pandemic and the tremendous workload. The remote MBA courses became my window to the outside world, a piece of distraction with a salutary effect.

In 2021, I developed ZEPAI, the German Center for Pandemic Vaccines and Therapeutics. We became a startup with an agile organization, and built expertise in production, logistics, supply chain management, finance, digitalization and contract management. A whole new world for a physician, but the MBA courses provided a solid basis.

I decided to apply for the Mannheim Executive MBA because I want to achieve a leading position in the upper echelons of the industry. My higher aspiration is to be in a position where I can establish and take the industry to an advanced stage, and my organization can easily be the leader in its area of influence. 

In the past, I led a European team at one of the biggest automotive suppliers in the world with a very high purchasing volume. I led my group in the best possible way, but I felt that something was missing, preventing me from leading the team even better. This gave me the idea to invest in my future and learn the management tools from a world-class business school. 

The EMBA program of Mannheim Business School had the qualities that best fit my expectations and objectives. Having gone through the program brochure and curriculum, I felt that it was the best institution for me to develop general managerial and communication skills. 

Getting into the program 

I started the application process at the very last moment, just a few days before the deadline, when one of my friends said that he is going to do an EMBA at Mannheim Business School. I spent long nights working intensively on my application. My wife and my father helped me a lot when I was not sure whether I was preparing properly and whether my essays were delivering the message I wanted to convey. Thanks to my previous managers, I got the recommendation letters very quickly. 

To make sure that my decision for MBS was right, I talked to current participants and alumni. But this is me: before I take a big decision, I invest a lot of time and try to gather as much information as possible. The MBS team was very friendly and helpful throughout the process. From the start, I felt like I belonged at MBS. They always answered promptly and were never irritated by my many questions. 

When I was accepted to the program, I wanted to tell the whole world, “I am going to do an EMBA at the best business school in Germany!” I told my wife and called my parents, I even posted it on LinkedIn. I was very excited and happy. In 2005, I had already been accepted for an MBA at a business school in London, but my visa was rejected, so I was a bit worried again. When I heard that I was accepted, it was at first hard to believe. It was like my dream had finally come true. 

Making friends and unforgettable memories 

Before meeting my classmates for the first time, I was excited and a bit insecure because I knew that many of them came from top European companies and worked at more senior levels (like vice president). As non-Germans, we always have an element of bias. But to be honest, after the introduction session I immediately felt like I was part of a family. MBS has a unique introduction method which helped me to integrate in the team very quickly. A few of my classmates whom I know from the very first day are now my best friends. Simply amazing. 

My personal program highlights were the study trip to Washington, D.C., and getting vocal coaching from Michael Sheehan, one of America’s leading communications trainers and strategists, who coached presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama on how to step into and conduct themselves in the media and public spotlight. I still remember the moment I asked him if I could take a photo with him and he put his hand on my shoulder, saying, “Yes, of course.” 

What a lecture weekend looks like 

Friday: Normal job from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., video team meeting and group work from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Quick dinner, then bedtime. 

Saturday: Wake up at 5:30 a.m., shower, leave home at 6:45 a.m. for a one-and-a-half-hour drive to Mannheim in time for the lecture starting at 8:45 a.m. and keep going until 6:15 p.m. After lectures, walk to the hotel, check in and get some dinner. Return to the hotel at around 10 p.m., talk to my wife and then go to sleep. 

Sunday: Wake up at 6:45 a.m., talk to my parents in India, take a shower, eat a protein bar, talk with my daughter, then walk to the classroom for lectures from 8:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Walk back to my parking place and drive back to Stuttgart, hoping to get home before my daughter’s bedtime. 

This degree is also my wife’s 

I missed many important events, including my and my wife’s cousins’ weddings. I wasn’t there for my daughter’s first dance performance on stage. It was tough but my wife helped a lot. I think, without her it would not have been possible. She took on all the household tasks and cared for our daughter along with her job. I am very thankful and lucky to have her on my side. Therefore, I say that this is not only my EMBA but hers too. I got a degree, but she didn’t. I think we can’t do anything big if we don’t have the right partner who supports us. 

It is hard to imagine for people who have not done it, but I can tell you from my experience that it is worth it even though it’s hard, because at the end you are a much better version of yourself. If you did it, you can survive and perform in any condition. Germany’s Nietzsche famously wrote “Was mich nicht umbringt, macht mich stärker” (what does not kill me makes me stronger), and I strongly believe it. 

Summing up 

The EMBA from Mannheim contributed to my professional growth by honing my leadership skills, fostering a global perspective and providing extensive networking opportunities. I gained expertise in diverse business functions, enhancing my competitiveness for executive roles. 

The program’s intensity fostered my personal development, resilience and effective time management. At MBS I learned how to get things done. The EMBA experience equipped me with a strategic mindset, prepared me for a leadership role and provided an asset for navigating the complex challenges of the business world. I hope to find a suitable role soon where I can use all I learned. 

I also benefit from a robust professional network. I love networking, meeting new, quality people, and the Mannheim Network is full of such people. I am never alone. If I need any information, I am just one WhatsApp message away from my cohort. 

It also helped me grow my visibility on LinkedIn. Before the EMBA, I had around 7,000 followers on LinkedIn and now I have more than 22,000. Learning from the MBS Network made me even more confident. 

Professionally, I am looking for a suitable role, which I hope will come soon. In comparison with the US, the Executive MBA is not very well known yet in Germany, but I think that will change soon because Germany cannot stand in the world market with only technology and general management as the basis for corporate success.

What were your personal highlights and the most challenging moments of the program?

The program was marked by several personal highlights that significantly enriched my experience. The study trip to Bocconi, focusing on leading under uncertainty, stands out as an excellent and enlightening program. Additionally, the leadership training in France provided invaluable insights into my personal blind spots, while the innovation class sparked a new perspective on creative problem-solving. Developing an app and delving into basic coding added a practical and fulfilling dimension to my skill set.

However, there were challenges, with a notable lowlight being the program coinciding with the Covid lockdown. As the weekend-based format evolved during this period, I often found myself, after a week of remote work in my demanding day job, spending additional days in front of my screen. The virtual nature of all group work intensified the situation, leading to Zoom fatigue and a sense of being chained to the screen. It was a significant contrast to what I had hoped for when I signed up just before the Covid pandemic, adding a layer of extra stress. Despite this challenge, the program’s highlights ultimately outweighed the lowlights, contributing significantly to my overall growth and learning experience.

The Strategic Project has evolved into your own company. Did you consider such a possibility when you started the program?

When I applied for the program, I was hoping to take my corporate career to the next level. The thought of it evolving into my very own company wasn’t even on my radar. However, as I delved into the depths of the program, acquiring a comprehensive 360-degree view of the business landscape, something transformative happened.

The Strategic Business Project not only broadened my expertise but ignited a strong desire to embrace a more holistic approach to my professional journey. It was during this intense experience that my passion for entrepreneurship was sparked. I found myself drawn to the dynamic challenges and endless possibilities of building something from the ground up.

This discovery became the cornerstone of my considerations, eventually steering me towards a decision that initially wasn’t part of the plan – to become an impact entrepreneur. The evolution from a strategic business project to founding a climate-tech startup was an unexpected but incredibly rewarding twist in my career path, fueled by the insights and inspirations gleaned from the program.

Looking back, how has the EMBA helped you in your professional and personal development and career?

Reflecting on the EMBA journey, I can affirm that its impact on both my professional and my personal development has been profound.

Firstly, the EMBA experience has been invaluable in developing a more holistic view of business. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and diverse perspectives have broadened my understanding, allowing me to navigate the complexities of the business landscape with a more well-rounded approach.

From a leadership standpoint, the EMBA has been a transformative journey. Exposure to a wide range of leadership styles, case studies and collaborative assignments has provided me with a multifaceted leadership perspective. This diverse exposure has not only honed my leadership skills but also equipped me with the capability to tackle challenges from various angles.

One of the most significant outcomes has been the boost in my confidence. Through its rigorous curriculum and interactive learning environment, the EMBA has empowered me to approach professional challenges with newfound assurance. The combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience has contributed to greater self-assurance, enhancing my decision-making and leadership abilities. Exposure to new situations has played a pivotal role in my personal and professional growth, expanding my adaptability and resilience. These experiences have not only enriched my skill set but also shaped me into a more versatile and confident professional.

Also, the program has been a catalyst for changing my thinking in many ways. The exposure to cutting-edge concepts, real-world applications and dynamic discussions has shifted my mindset. I now approach problems with a more strategic and innovative perspective, constantly seeking opportunities for growth and improvement.

In essence, the EMBA has been an incredible journey that has not only elevated my professional capabilities but also left an everlasting mark on my personal and leadership development.

What role does the MBS Network play for you personally and professionally?

The MBS Network holds a significant role for me, both personally and professionally. While the concept of a strong professional network was always emphasized, its practical importance became crystal clear when I founded my own company. Suddenly faced with numerous challenges and the need for insights into unfamiliar territory, the MBS Network proved to be an invaluable resource.

The network’s strength lies in its responsiveness and willingness to help. Whether it was information, solutions to challenges or introductions to relevant contacts that I was seeking, the Mannheim Network consistently exceeded my expectations. The collaborative ethos within the community is genuinely impressive, turning potential obstacles into shared successes.

On a personal note, the program not only expanded my professional connections but also introduced me to individuals who have become lasting friends. The shared experience of the program has not only enriched my career but also created a network of genuine connections, extending beyond professional collaboration to a community of like-minded individuals.

Reflecting on the journey, there are numerous noteworthy moments to mention, yet here are some of the standout highlights:

Intense Classroom Lectures: We delved deep into various management subjects, broadening our horizons. Each class offered a wealth of knowledge deeper understanding of Management styles and attributes. Strategic Leadership, Organizational Behavior, Marketing Management, Corporate Finance, Decision Analysis, Mergers & Acquisitions to name but a few.

OutdoorLeadership Training in France: An unforgettable experience that strengthened our bonds, teaching us the essence of teamwork and leadership attributes.

Social Project Sonnenkinder: We discovered the importance of empathy and giving back to society – essential qualities of effective leaders.

Group Assignments: Learning how to navigate team dynamics while delivering results with multi-competency teams was a memorable journey. Special thanks to my MCT for their unwavering support!

Study Trips to the USA and Singapore: These study trips exposed us to diverse business cultures, geopolitics, negotiation practices, and regional business protocols.

Strategic Business Project: An all-encompassing overview of startup business, spanning from ideation to market research, business strategy, and financials. A big shoutout to my SBP team for their continuous support!

EMBA Cohort: Finally, our cohort was nothing short of amazing. We shared experiences, learned from each other, formed lasting friendships, and celebrated successes together. Everyone's eagerness to learn something new was truly inspiring.

As we close this chapter, I step into the future armed with knowledge, experience, and an invaluable network. Here's to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead! 

18 months ago, I embarked on this incredible adventure with a thirst for knowledge, personal growth, and a drive to enhance my business & leadership skills. It's been an intense and rewarding experience, filled with late nights, group projects, insightful discussions, and unforgettable friendships. This Executive MBA program has been a game-changer, not only expanding my horizons but also providing me with practical tools and strategies to excel in my career. One of the highlights has undoubtedly been the study trips to Georgetown University McDonough School of Business and ESSEC Asia-Pacific. These immersive experiences have taken me to diverse corners of the world, allowing me to witness first-hand the global business landscape and its intricacies. I want to express my deepest gratitude to my professors, classmates, mentors and most importantly my family who have been a constant source of inspiration and support throughout this journey. Your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable.
 
As I reflect on the last 18 months, I am amazed at how much I've grown both professionally and personally. I've learned to embrace challenges, think critically, adapt to an ever-changing business landscape, and appreciate the richness of global perspectives. As I reflect on this chapter, I am deeply humbled by the incredible network of people who have touched my life during this journey. Together, we've created memories, expanded our knowledge, and built a foundation for an exciting future. 
 
This is not the end; it's just the beginning of a new chapter. I am excited to apply what I've learned and the knowledge I've gained from all of you to drive innovation, lead teams, and make a positive impact in the business world.

1. What is your professional background? Why did you decide to do an EMBA? Why did you choose the Weekend Track of the ESSEC & MANNHEIM Executive MBA (now: Mannheim Executive MBA)?

Following my studies in Law at the University of Tübingen and my PhD, I first started an ordinary career as a lawyer in a law firm before I joined the legal department of Bilfinger SE (at that time Bilfinger Berger AG). Over time, the company offered me the opportunity to develop my skills outside the original legal environment as Head of Mergers & Acquisitions and shortly thereafter also Head of Corporate Strategy. To support me in this career move and in stepping out of my comfort zone, an Executive MBA seemed to me the best way to learn and understand more about business models, strategy, and business analytics. The weekend-based Executive MBA at Mannheim Business School was my preferred option as already then it was the top program in Germany, and in terms of location it was the easiest to combine with my family of four kids and my challenging job in Mannheim.

2. What impact did the EMBA have on your career?

The EMBA not only provided me with a theoretical knowledge of economics, but also broadened my mind and helped me to reflect on many topics relating to my career, my approach to work, and internationality. Both the knowledge and the title I gained with the EMBA gave me the personal strength and validation I needed to step out of my initial profession and take on an operational role as CEO. In order to succeed in such a new role, you need to be open, ask questions, and build up trust. However, you also need to have the business tools ready to apply them in your job, and the EMBA helped me a lot in getting familiar with those tools. Of course, there were moments during the program when I wasn't sure whether I would be able to finish it – with all the challenges I was facing in my personal and working life at that time. But, as often in life, once you push through, you benefit even more from the experience and the confidence you get out of such an achievement.

3. What were some significant experiences that you took away with you from the program? What was your personal highlight?

For me personally, the classes in strategy, strategic leadership, and change management were absolute highlights. The residency at UCLA in Los Angeles was outstanding as the entrepreneurship we experienced there opened new horizons. The interaction with my international class mates with all their different backgrounds was a great experience as well, with friendships and a network that are still going strong today. 

4. How did the EMBA prepare you for dealing with crisis situations such as the current corona pandemic?

Managing extreme workloads and getting through tough times with night shifts during the EMBA after arduous days clearly prepared me for times of crisis like the current one. A ‘never give up’ attitude helps a lot in times like these. Besides that, in a crisis situation companies need leaders with good general management skills, people who are genuine and empathic. To help your company, you will need to be able to deal with a lot of different issues, for example safeguarding liquidity, reducing costs without destroying the company, but also reassuring the anxieties of your workforce, and winning back clients.

When Jörg Bruch started his career with SAP SE, he held a degree in biology and geography, but had no formal education related to his business life. In order to fill this gap after more than ten years of work experience, he decided to join the Mannheim EMBA program:

"One major motivation to do an Executive MBA was to fundamentally learn all the theories, tools, and skills that are relevant in business life. To me, choosing the Mannheim EMBA was a natural choice – first because it is the best business school in Germany and one of the best in Europe; second due to the proximity to my current hometown Heidelberg; last but not least due to the interesting curriculum."

Bruch values the impact his MBA degree has made on his business life:

"The learnings are really helpful in my day-to-day business life, now having a solid background in Corporate Finance, Financial Accounting and many other disciplines. I also found myself reconfirmed in my leadership role, not only within my company but in a group of other executives from different companies and industries with really diverse backgrounds. Finally making so many new connections to other executives, not only in my class but through the Alumni network of MBS also to many others, is a real value in itself."

Bruch's biggest take-away from the Mannheim EMBA program:

"A kind of 'I can do' attitude – going 'back to school,' managing all the lectures and assignments besides my normal work and eventually graduating after eighteen months was a great re-confirmation that I can still learn very efficiently and that I can achieve something great. Also the Entrepreneurial Project was a really changing experience that is hard to gain in a corporate environment. Keeping this entrepreneurial thinking for my work in a corporate environment alive is definitely something that puts the question of value in the center of the work."

While before the degree, his daily business was mainly operational and related to budgets, processes and formal HR topics, Jörg Bruch took on additional responsibility after his MBA - first as Vice President and COO of a large development unit within SAP and now as Head of IT Operations, responsible for the operation of all SAP business systems worldwide.