Thought leadership
At CEMS, we recognize the pressing need for a paradigm shift towards holistic sustainability in business, where both environmental and societal dimensions are deeply intertwined. Our theme, "Mindset Shifting Towards Sustainable Business Models," serves as a compass guiding our exploration into the realms of collaborations across borders and disciplines. Through this initiative we aim to leverage the collective wisdom of our alliance schools, fostering innovation, collaboration, and impact at scale. As we confront unprecedented global challenges — climate change and encounter new opportunities, like gen-AI we must develop a proactive, values-based mindset focused on care for the common good.
In this editorial, we introduce two compelling sub-themes that reflect our commitment to nurturing leaders who champion sustainability, inclusivity, and responsibility. The choice of "Student Mindset Shifting" and "Environmental and Societal Sustainability" as pillars of the CEMS Thought Leadership initiative underscores our dedication to cultivating transformative leadership that aligns with CEMS values — fostering business as a force for positive societal and environmental impact.
Environmental Sustainability
Amidst global challenges, CEMS recognizes the pivotal moment to re-imagine our collective future by integrating both environmental and societal sustainability into business education. As the climate crisis intensifies and social inequalities deepen, these interconnected pillars are essential for building inclusive, resilient, and future-proof business models. The exponential rise of AI across all domains will likely offers valuable tools for generating sustainable solutions. However, we must approach its use critically, ensuring that all innovation remains anchored in values-based leadership — so that progress benefits everyone, not just a few.
This theme explores the full spectrum of sustainability challenges and opportunities, highlighting the role of education in shaping leaders who are equipped to tackle current challenges responsibly and with purpose. Through curated insights and research, we aim to inspire dialogue and collective action.
Student Mindset Shifting
In a rapidly changing world, CEMS explores the "student mindset shifting" sub-theme, addressing the challenges of collaboration, innovation, and resilience. Amid global uncertainties, and technological disruption, we focus on fostering leaders with curiosity, discernment, and commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. As part of a broader shift toward sustainability, this series highlights how CEMS Academic Members are equipping students with the mindset to make more responsible decisions in their future workplaces. From research to on-campus initiatives, we explore how business schools are fostering critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a deep sense of environmental and societal responsibility. As gen-AI increasingly influences decision-making and business strategy, students must learn to engage with it critically and ethically. This series will examine ways to inspire students to adopt a value-driven and proactive approach to problem-solving that benefits both people and the planet.
By showcasing insights and initiatives from our Academic Members, we aim to shape a generation of adaptable, responsible leaders ready to create sustainable business models that benefit all.