Rising to the challenge
Following a successful 2-year mandate as CEMS Chair and Deputy Chair, Professors Whitwell and Strannegård have been elected for a second term. In a year marked by a pandemic that has been particularly disruptive in higher education and social unrest worldwide, this is a great sign of stability for the CEMS Global Alliance.
“In a year that has tested our ability to remain connected despite international border closures, I am proud that the CEMS network has risen to the challenge and honoured to be re-elected as Chair. The unprecedented level of cooperation between educational institutions and Corporate Partners from all corners of the world is testimony to the resilience of the alliance,” says Whitwell. “While the coronavirus pandemic has forced us to rethink how we deliver world-class education remotely, I look forward to seeing the innovative solutions that CEMS schools continue to propose and implement.”
Deputy Chair Professor Strannegård echos this sentiment. "This pandemic year has been difficult for organizations across the globe. With the increasingly isolationist trends we’re seeing, it’s more important than ever to forge strong partnerships across borders and strengthen cross-cultural exchanges. CEMS is built on cooperation, learning, and the free exchange of ideas. This community, comprised of extraordinary business schools, outstanding corporate partners, alumni and students across the world, is key in adapting to the new normal yet to come. I’m proud and grateful to be able to continue contributing to the path forward,” he says.
Stability in an unstable world
CEMS Executive Director, Roland Siegers, applauds this nomination as a sign of stability. “For CEMS, Professors Whitwell and Strannegårds renewal of mandates as Chair and Deputy Chair sends a signal of personal commitment and stability in the most challenging of times. We are honored to be guided by such outstanding and recognized leaders whose dedication to the values of the organisation - openness, inclusion, sustainability - is exemplary,” he says.
A truly unique collaboration
CEMS member schools collaborate with partner companies and non-profits to deliver the CEMS Master in International Management (MIM) program to approximately 1,300 students from about 70 different nationalities annually.
The goal of the program is to develop graduates with a truly global mindset. Graduates must have a working knowledge of at least three languages and have studied and worked outside of their home country. With half of CEMS alumni living outside of their home country and 75% working for multinational companies, these profiles are highly sought after by companies, with a 96% employment rate amongst recent graduates.