Vagner Paes’ passion for serving others and embracing cultural diversity

To gain a foundation in business, Vagner decided to pursue a bachelor’s in business administration from the Universidade de São Paulo. Soon after, he moved on to the world of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), where he worked for companies such as Unilever, Mondelez and PepsiCo.

Later, he decided he wanted to further his education and get his master’s degree. He visited a handful of schools, but ultimately wound up applying to only one—IE Business School. He was seeking a genuine international experience, one full of different people from all over the world who would be able to bring unique stories and experiences. He felt confident that IE Business School would deliver that.

“One of my biggest passions is people—getting to know them and learning about their culture and experiences. It's fascinating to have the opportunity to live in a different country and get to know different people. The more I learn about different cultures, people and backgrounds, the more I learn about myself.

Today, in his current role as Global Marketing Director for Danone, Vagner is responsible for managing the global strategy for company brands, in addition to maintaining close partnerships with brand leaders in countries across the world.

“If I had to summarize my role, it's really about serving people. We really believe that the more we serve our consumers, the bigger the impact we're going to create in the world.”

Not only has he been able to work with some of the most important brand leaders around the globe, but Vagner has also had the chance to make a positive impact on both society and the planet. Through his work at Danone, he has helped many consumers thanks to the company’s social innovation efforts, which reflect their vision for a healthier and more interconnected planet—aligning with their goal of increased social progress and economic success.

Vagner oversees programs and services that serve communities around the world, such as the Breakfast Club of Canada and Juntos in Portugal. Channeling this passion for helping others, he most recently collaborated on the partnership Danone formed with the Spanish Red Cross (la Cruz Roja). This initiative provided children in Spain with access to essential, nutritious foods that they were lacking due to school closures caused by COVID-19.

“I truly believe that every time you make a choice, especially when it comes to food, you're choosing the world you want to live in. This is a value I strongly believe in. We’ve seen the world shifting away from a less reactive approach to health, and a more proactive one, by being conscious of the food choices we’re making.”

When Vagner looks back at his time at IE Business School, he learned a lot, both inside and outside of the classroom. He’s still in touch with his classmates several years after they graduated, and he’s grateful to have enjoyed his time at an institution that he says addresses the needs of society and fosters an entrepreneurial spirit within its students. He’s also fortunate to have been surrounded by inspiring leaders, like Lee Newman. Vagner praises his former professor for his powerful positive leadership skills.

“Having the chance to be immersed in a global setting, filled with people from different countries, cultures and backgrounds is an incredible experience. The memories—from inauguration to graduation, and everything else in between—and friendships will last a lifetime.”

To celebrate the 50th intake of the International MBA at IE Business School, we’re sharing stories from our impressive alumni. This impactful leader is just one of the stand-out International MBA alumni who have passed through the doors of IE Business School. To read even more inspiring stories from graduates of the International MBA, and to learn more about the program, click here.