Over the course of the week, the 60 students representing 12 CEMS Academic Member schools and over 20 nationalities gathered in Switzerland to partake in various events. The dynamic agenda represented a blend of academic courses, hands-on workshops, company visits and presentations as well as social activities.
At the heart of the Forum was the "Integrated Leadership and Management" course, led by Dr. Lüder Tockenbürger. Typically offered to the Executive MBA programme at the University of St. Gallen, the course covered essential topics in general management, process management, and organizational development. Drawing on the St. Gallen Management Model, students tackled complex, real-world management challenges. Working in teams, they analysed situations and developed comprehensive solutions based on integrated management principles.
A highlight of the course was a process simulation exercise where students formed small groups to replicate the production process of a ship manufacturing plant. Competing to build ships quickly while upholding Swiss-quality standards, this exercise blended practical skills with a spirit of friendly competition.
The academic program was accompanied by an astounding 15 CEMS Corporate Partners, who contributed to the students' personal growth and the Forum's success. Remaining faithful to the theme of “Integrated Leadership and Management Beyond Today,” short seminars and workshops on topics such as “Sustainability,” “Mental Health,” and “Digital Technologies” were led by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Coca-Cola HBC, Deloitte, Gartner, Kearney, L’Oréal and Simon-Kucher. Furthermore, students were offered a view behind the curtain of operations and decision-making at Accenture, EF Education First, Hilti, P&G and zeb.
In addition to presentations, Deichmann, Deloitte, Gartner, Hilti, Henkel and Simon-Kucher fostered deeper discourse between students and corporations through Q&As, coffee chats, and interviews. Last but not least, students were invited by SWISS Airlines, as part of the Lufthansa Group, to visit their headquarters at the airport and engage in current real-life challenges within the aviation business.
The students and numerous corporate participants fully embraced the true CEMS spirit through extraordinary social events. The week featured a close-knit pub quiz competition, heartwarming karaoke sessions, indulgent dinners, and a picturesque farewell gala. While the pace was sometimes demanding, the connections and friendships between CEMS students and unforgettable experiences were well worth the effort!
The CEMS DACH Forum 2025 will take place in Vienna and be hosted by the organizing team of the WU Vienna University of Economics and Business.