IE Global Executive MBA 2025: Leading with Purpose in a Transforming World

In a time defined by rapid transformation, shifting global priorities, and an urgent call for human-centered leadership, the Global Executive MBA Class of 2025 at IE Business School celebrated their graduation ceremony on May 9, prepared to lead with distinction. This cohort exemplifies IE's core values of diversity, excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit, standing as a testament to the institution's commitment to shaping future leaders equipped to navigate complex global landscapes and drive positive and sustainable impact across society.

Hailing from over 23 countries, the class brings together a rich mosaic of cultural perspectives and professional experiences. With an average age of 42 and some 16 years of professional experience, these individuals have backgrounds spanning sectors such as banking, technology, consulting, consumer products, and healthcare. The diversity of this cohort cultivated strong collaboration, building a global network that will drive future innovation and impact. 

Karen Kassouf, a class representative and experienced leader in the EPC sector, said being surrounded by so many perspectives expanded how she listens, thinks, and leads. 

"It showed me that real leadership isn’t about having the right answers — it’s about creating space and opportunity for different views to shape better ones."

With deep leadership experience across finance, real estate, energy, and tech, the GXMBA class steps into a world in flux as a force for change. They live IE’s values—diversity, excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit—and brought them to life through bold action. 

According to Patricia Carnicero, Executive Director of the Global Executive MBA, this class didn’t just rise to challenges; they transformed them, reshaping their program and lifting their peers. 

 "By offering constructive feedback attuned to IE’s long-range strategy, the class enhanced the program for future cohorts, demonstrating a pioneering spirit and a commitment to leadership, co-creation, and continuous improvement," Carnicero said. 

Manar Al Shamass, an Assurance partner and the first woman to be named partner within her service line at EY in Saudi Arabia, notes that team spirit and collaboration among classmates transformed challenges into invaluable learning opportunities. She recalls how, during a complex final project, diverse perspectives and collective thinking led to a comprehensive and practical solution. 

"It truly illustrated the power of collaboration, which is central to IE’s educational approach."

Their collaborative spirit extended beyond the classroom. Manuel Noda, Siemens Healthineers executive, Blue Torch holder, and elected class speaker, highlights how engaging with peers, faculty, and industry leaders taught him to ask better questions and laid the groundwork for sustainable solutions. 

"Witnessing our collective growth at IE taught me the value of intentional learning in shaping a better future," he shares. "The power of collaboration and technology has transformed my approach to leadership and decision-making."

This mindset led to tangible achievements, such as the creation of EduWallet, a peer-to-peer education funding platform envisioned by Harison Chandra, an entrepreneur and mining professional from Indonesia. His idea was enriched by the team’s diverse expertise. 

"Through this project, we identified a potential to impact more than 20 million Indonesian students," Chandra explains. "Co-creation thrives not just on shared goals, but on the courage to listen, challenge, and build together."

The class’s shared commitment to impact-driven leadership was further strengthened by navigating ambiguity and complexity throughout the program. Karen Kassouf recalls a multi-day strategy simulation that pushed her team to make tough calls without full data. 

"It pushed me to trust my instincts, hold space for disagreement, and still move forward with clarity," she says. 

These experiences, echoed across the cohort, fostered resilience, adaptability, and a leadership style grounded in empathy and strategic thinking.

As they prepare to graduate, this class embodies a cross-section of the superlative nature of IE's future leadership. Their pioneering spirit, constructive influence on the program, and superlative caliber of profiles reflect IE’s global vision and excellence. 

Manuel Noda emphasizes, "Compassion and resilience are the cornerstones of my leadership journey, enabling me to navigate complexity with purpose. In a world of uncertainty, I choose clarity and empathy to empower those around me."

Looking ahead, the class is united by a shared mission: to lead with authenticity and empower those around them. 

"Adaptability and continuous learning are essential," advises Al Shamass. "Don’t shy away from mistakes or bold risks—true leadership requires stepping outside your comfort zone." 

Chandra agrees. "Reinvention is no longer optional: it's leadership." 

In a time that demands decisive, forward-thinking leadership, this class shows exactly what that looks like.