Celebrating 25 years of the Executive MBA program

Celebrating 25 years of the Executive MBA program

“A program ahead of its time”

When IMD launched one of the first Executive MBA programs in Europe a quarter-century ago, it was driven by a vision: to create a course that reflected the real world and focused on real impact. Today, the achievements of IMD alumni speak for themselves, not only through their tangible business successes but also through their efforts to enhance the quality of life in their communities. IMD’s legacy is built through the achievements of our alumni. Their stories – just a few of which are profiled in this publication – serve as a challenge and an inspiration for our community, reinforcing our mission to create a more prosperous, sustainable, and inclusive world.

Leading with Impact

Executive MBA alumni celebrate the 25th anniversary

When IMD launched its EMBA program a quarter of a century ago, the world was on the cusp of transformation. The euro had just been introduced, Bill Clinton was serving as President of the United States, and the fears of the Y2K bug dominated the collective consciousness as the millennium approached.

In the 25 years since, the world has undergone extraordinary technological, economic, and societal shifts. Yet, amid all this change, the demand for reflective, adaptive leaders remains unwavering.

“True leadership is not inherited or bestowed. It is forged through reflection and challenges, enriched by differences, and strengthened through fellowship,” said Vanina Farber, Dean of the EMBA program since 2022, as she addressed alumni gathered in Lausanne to celebrate the program’s landmark anniversary.

Read more about the event here.