Testimonials
I’ve been in the aviation industry for 13 years, serving as a regional sales manager for an American company called StandardAero. Essentially, we provide Emerald services on aircraft engines.
Why did you consider an Executive MBA?
I chose to pursue the Global Executive MBA at NEOMA to refresh my knowledge and remain aware of the ever-changing world. Since my last graduation in 2012, I felt it was essential to update my understanding of the economic context and reflect on the future direction of my career.Why did you choose NEOMA?
I believe the Global Executive MBA at NEOMA offers the ideal opportunity to decide whether to continue progressing within my company or to explore entrepreneurial ventures based on ideas I have in mind. This programme will enable me to make well-informed decisions about my career path.
I thoroughly enjoyed my Global Executive MBA experience at NEOMA, and I am particularly pleased with my choice of this Business School. Over the past year, I have undergone significant personal and professional transformation. The programme is highly relevant to current trends, such as artificial intelligence, and provides invaluable insights into contemporary societal and economic changes. The Global Executive MBA is a transformative journey that not only shapes what you become but also reveals unexpected potential within yourself.
What did you like the most?
In today’s world, being a manager requires more than just skills in finance or supply chain management. NEOMA places a strong emphasis on developing us as individuals, fostering resilience, professionalism, and leadership qualities. This holistic approach prepares us to handle a broad spectrum of responsibilities and be exemplary in both our professional and personal lives. Before joining NEOMA, I had extensive experience in finance within large international companies, primarily in the oil and gas sector. Over the past year, my perspective has broadened significantly. For instance, my current Capstone project is focused on promoting French gastronomy in English-speaking countries, particularly in the USA. It aims to share sustainable and intelligent eating habits with a wider audience. Additionally, I am considering starting a consulting firm to leverage my finance expertise and the diverse skills I’ve acquired. The Global Executive MBA has shown me that with a solid idea, sufficient knowledge, and a strong network, realizing new projects is achievable and not as daunting as it may seem.How about the Crisis Management Seminar?
In April 2023, NEOMA provided us with an exceptional opportunity to learn crisis management in collaboration with the National Gendarmerie at CNISAG in Chamonix. This seminar offered us practical insights into their crisis response techniques and how we can apply these methods in our own environments. Experiencing their rigorous approach to urgent situations gave us a fresh perspective on managing crises. Today, crises are a common occurrence in both professional and personal spheres, and having the right tools and mindset is crucial. The CNISAG experience was invaluable, and I am grateful to NEOMA for facilitating this high-quality training.
I joined NEOMA in October 2022, and the experience has been truly impressive, particularly in terms of the interactions and exchanges with my peers. I chose the Global Executive MBA to expand my knowledge, take on more responsibility at work, and boost my self-confidence
What did you like the most?
What I liked the most were the courses and the way the teachers used empathy to explain concepts. Additionally, learning with and from my peers was incredibly valuable. I discovered a whole new world—it was challenging and pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I managed to thrive.
Why did you choose the Gendarmerie?
I was drawn to the Gendarmerie for its prestigious history and the opportunity to represent my country. At 13 or 14, the idea of wearing a uniform, developing physical skills, and travelling the world appealed to me.How did your career evolve?
I joined the Gendarmerie in 2006, training in logistics and human resources, specialising in managing these functions in crisis situations. My work took me to war zones and Europe, where I trained military personnel.What challenges did you face in your role?
Managing human resources in the military was emotionally challenging, especially when dealing with the loss of colleagues. Leading a small team in a war zone required quickly adapting to changing situations, often without support.Why did you choose the Global Executive MBA at NEOMA?
After 15 years in the armed forces, I wanted to step out of my comfort zone. The EMBA was a way to prepare for the increasing connections between the military and the private sector, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset.Why NEOMA?
NEOMA's reputation and the English-language programme were key factors. The course was part-time but required a significant commitment, especially while balancing a new job and family life.What were the highlights of the EMBA?
The programme covered a wide range of topics, from leadership to sustainability. The international finance course was particularly impactful, revealing a new skill set for me.How has your role changed since the EMBA?
I was promoted to deputy head of HR at the Gendarmerie’s national headquarters. I now manage a team working on a digital transformation project, handling an HR budget of €8bn for 140,000 personnel.What impact has the EMBA had on your work?
I applied insights from digital transformation and ethics to motivate younger colleagues and strengthen my relationships with senior leaders. This has improved my ability to communicate strategy and vision.How has the EMBA changed you personally?
The EMBA was a transformative experience, combining professional learning with personal empowerment. This experience, shared by my cohort colleagues, went beyond academic knowledge to become a truly life-changing journey. Read the full article on Financial Times.
I joined NEOMA for the Global Executive MBA programme while working as a solutions engineer for a geospatial company. My initial goal in undertaking the Global Executive MBA was to transition from a technical role to one more focused on sales and revenue. After a year and a half with my cohort at NEOMA, I joined Dataiku in a customer support and customer success role, aligned with my original plan. And indeed, the area in which I have made the most progress is probably interpersonal skills, such as communication and dealing with people in difficult situations.
I chose NEOMA because, from the outset, I sensed a genuine family spirit and constant support, from my initial interview with the NEOMA team to all the courses delivered by professors from various universities, including Imperial College London and universities in Ghana. Throughout my Global Executive MBA, I truly felt that NEOMA supported me in my professional transformation.
I have worked for over 15 years in the energy sector, with experience in oil and geophysics. Outside of work, I enjoy tasting good red wine, going on road trips by foot or by bike, playing tennis, and practising yoga. I am also passionate about real estate, investing in apartment renovations and vintage décor. Travelling is essential for me; it inspires and enriches me, and I particularly enjoy engaging with different cultures.
Can you tell us about your motivations/objectives for enrolling in the Global Executive MBA at NEOMA?
Before joining NEOMA's Global Executive programme, I felt the need to explore new professional perspectives. I wanted to consolidate my foundations and gain a global vision of business. I aspired to broaden my horizons in human, geographical, and technical aspects. By joining this programme, I aimed to confront international case studies to acquire this comprehensive view. I also wanted to strengthen my managerial and decision-making skills to better manage my projects and team. Finally, I wanted to deepen my knowledge in finance and accounting to enrich my professional profile (I really needed that 😊).Why did you choose NEOMA (advantages, motivation...)?
What attracted me to NEOMA was its uniqueness and global openness. The programme offered an enriching approach with several trips, a small cohort size that facilitated exchange and sharing, and strong values upheld by the school. NEOMA's growing reputation also convinced me of the quality and relevance of the course. I would wholeheartedly recommend this programme.Which aspects of the programme did you find most beneficial?
I found the finance and accounting modules excellent. The professors were pedagogical, and the courses were well-structured, allowing even novices like me to understand complex concepts. The diversity of my peers, coming from various sectors (such as aerospace, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, law, and hospitality), was also very enriching due to the exchange of experiences and knowledge. I would also highlight the quality of the professors and their kindness.What skills have you developed thanks to this training? And how has it impacted your life?
I developed several key skills. I strengthened my team spirit by realising how valuable a good network is. I also gained a better understanding of the financial aspects of business. This training provided me with a comprehensive view of the organisation as a whole. My cohort inspired me to be more resilient by sharing their experiences in facing challenges. It changed my approach to projects (business plans, finance, profitability, creativity...).What were the highlights for you? Do you have a significant event or anecdote to share?
Stepping out of my comfort zone and learning new things was a major highlight. I also greatly appreciated the moments of sharing and support between participants, as well as the realizations that truly enriched my experience. There were so many remarkable events! For instance, in India, where I met a doctor who founded a free hospital for disadvantaged people. It deeply moved me. I was also impressed by the mutual support among colleagues and the quality of the professors, who always had a very human approach.If you had to describe the Global Executive MBA in 3 words?
Friendliness, stimulation, open-mindedness.
Vincent BONNEVIE
Global Executive MBA Alumnus – 2020
Offshore Contractor Site Representative - GMC Package
I’m Pierre Plouzennec, an engineer and participant in the Global Executive MBA. I joined NEOMA to improve my business skills, especially in finance and management, and to build the confidence needed to lead or even establish my own company. NEOMA provided the ideal setting to develop the knowledge and self-assurance I required for this entrepreneurial journey.
What motivated you to choose an Executive MBA for your professional journey?
I chose to enrol in the Global Executive MBA programme to boost my self-confidence and fulfil my ambition of starting a business. With an engineering background, I wanted to develop management and business skills to complement my technical expertise. This programme allowed me to combine these two essential aspects. NEOMA Business School stood out for the quality of its teaching and its valuable network. I was able to expand my professional circle by meeting ambitious individuals from diverse backgrounds and sharing unique experiences that enriched me greatly. Group work was particularly impactful, fostering constructive exchanges and building strong bonds with my peers.What were the most beneficial aspects of the programme? And why NEOMA?
One of the most valuable parts of the programme has been collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds. These interactions introduced me to fresh perspectives, industries, and ways of thinking. Combined with excellent courses delivered by top professors, the experience has been both enriching and transformative. It blends strong academic learning with practical, real-world insights. NEOMA Business School, quite simply for the quality of its teaching and the richness of its network. I was able to expand my professional circle by meeting ambitious individuals from diverse backgrounds and sharing unique experiences that enriched me greatly. Group work was particularly impactful, fostering constructive exchanges and the creation of strong bonds with my peers.Would you recommend NEOMA's Global Executive MBA? Advice for those considering an EMBA?
I highly recommend NEOMA's Global Executive MBA. It is a demanding but incredibly rewarding experience that requires rigorous personal organisation. The programme offers high-quality teaching and the opportunity to build powerful professional networking connections. For those with ambition and the desire to achieve their goals, this programme provides the necessary tools for success. It is a highly practical, accessible experience, perfectly suited to supporting ambitions such as starting a business or advancing your career. All it takes is careful planning and balancing it with your work and personal life — it is a valuable investment in your future, especially if you aspire to take your career to the next level.
Choosing the Luxury Marketing track was a clear step towards specialising in an industry synonymous with excellence and craftsmanship has equipped me with a nuanced understanding of luxury brand management, consumer behaviour and market dynamics. I am confident that the blend of theoretical knowledge, practical experience and cultural immersion I have gained through this programme is shaping me into a dynamic and innovative luxury marketing professional, ready to contribute meaningfully to this vibrant industry.
Anna KOSORUKOVA
Class of 2024, Luxury Marketing Track
Operational Marketing Assistant Intern, Marionnaud
The comprehensive scope of the Global Management programme at NEOMA Business School and the opportunity to work with students from across the global has been instrumental to my understanding of international businesses operations. By working with students from different cultural backgrounds, I now appreciate how acknowledging cultural differences can help future managers embrace the global opportunities and overcome unprecedented business challenges.
This experience has prepared me to join a transnational business and collaborate with multinational teams to embrace global market opportunities and make a meaningful impact throughout my career.
