Graduations from the Global Executive MBA: Top schools in Europe

4 min read

The Global Executive MBA Class of 2025 just celebrated their graduation—and with it, a unique journey across three continents, multiple time zones and one life-changing experience. Hear directly from our graduates how the program has impacted their careers, outlooks and personal growth.

Every cohort of the Global Executive MBA is unique, but the common thread uniting them all is transformation. For our most recent graduates, this journey went far beyond academic or professional goals—it was personal, reflective and life-defining.

What makes the Global Executive MBA experience truly transformational?

For Majan Al-Abdullatif, General Manager at Shell, the experience was much more than a program: “It was deeply personal. A mirror. A proving ground. A reminder that growth often begins on the edge of discomfort.” From overcoming self-doubt to discovering new dimensions of leadership, Majan’s reflections underscore how the program shapes not just executives, but whole individuals.

Julian Mejia, a serial entrepreneur and real estate development CEO, echoes this sense of inner and outer metamorphosis. He explains, “The Global Executive MBA didn’t just sharpen my edge; it transformed me. I leave more focused, more courageous and fiercely committed to leading with purpose-driven vision and creating lasting impact.”

From fostering self-awareness to unlocking greater levels of confidence, the program becomes a journey of discovery. For leaders ready to evolve, it offers the rare opportunity to step back, reflect and emerge stronger on the other side.

Tap into a powerful professional network

IE Business School thrives on the diversity and strength of our student body. Participants join from across the world, bringing a rich mix of industries, roles and life experiences to the table. As they collaborate on real-world challenges and come together through intensive residential periods, they forge enduring bonds that transcend borders.

“At first, I was intimidated by my peers,” Julian admits, recalling the caliber of talent in his cohort. “But as we opened our hearts and minds to one another, walls fell and authentic bonds flourished. Through empathy, shared challenges and a united purpose, our cohort became an unstoppable force.”

Manuel Noda, Vice President at Siemens Healthineers, emphasizes the lasting impact of these connections. “Our cohort’s unique bond is a powerful force. We’ve built lifelong friendships and partnerships that will amplify our voices and optimize our futures.”

These relationships become part of a global support system, one that enriches both personal and professional lives long after graduation.

What do you gain from the Global Executive MBA?

Real added value in professional education isn’t just about promotions or pay raises—although many graduates do report those. It’s also about the clarity, courage and capability participants walk away with. The program’s structure, which includes project-based learning, leadership coaching and international exposure, is designed to deliver practical value from day one.

Manuel describes what he learned about personal growth: “Let’s embrace urgency in our journey! Choose what’s urgent, determine the impact we want to make, govern our actions and let’s start now! Every challenge is an opportunity for growth.”

Majan points to deeper leadership lessons as her biggest takeaway: “That vulnerability is not weakness, but a gateway to connection and growth. That adaptability and the ability to read and respond to team dynamics are just as important as knowledge.” These are the insights that empower executives to lead with empathy and vision.

Ken Seethram, a medical director based in Canada, describes his experience in the final residential period in Madrid as a highlight. “It was a wonderful week of scholarship and friendship. I was also happy to finally meet the professors who helped us immensely through the program.”

If you are considering a career pivot, entrepreneurial venture or more influential role within your current organization, the Global Executive MBA delivers a solid return on investment by preparing you to take action with clarity, confidence and a global mindset.

Study across three continents

One standout feature of the Global Executive MBA is the international residential weeks. Over 15 months, participants travel to world-leading institutions including UCLA, Oxford University, Singapore Management University, and IE Business School in Madrid.

These global immersions offer much more than a change of scenery. They allow program participants to learn directly from regional experts, experience diverse business cultures and build global intelligence. The result? Executives who can lead anywhere.

Majan summed up the program perfectly: “Three continents. Countless lessons. One unforgettable journey.”

Whether developing cultural adaptability, leadership under pressure or cutting-edge skills for digital transformation, graduates leave the program with a lasting competitive advantage.