From Chile to France: How the EDHEC Executive MBA is a Pathway to Leadership and Global Impact
This Chilean investment leader and trained agronomist joined EDHEC Executive MBA programme to sharpen strategy, expand global impact, and bridge markets between France and Chile.
From Chile to France and How the EDHEC Executive MBA is a Pathway to Leadership and Global Impact
In today’s interconnected business landscape, leaders must navigate complex global challenges with vision and expertise. The EDHEC Executive MBA programme is designed to empower seasoned professionals to bridge international markets, enhance their strategic capabilities, broaden perspectives, and drive meaningful change on a global scale.
One of the programme’s current participants is Cristián Sagal Lopez, an agronomist and Investment Commissioner in France for the Chilean Foreign Direct Investment agency. His decision to join the EDHEC EMBA reflects both the programme’s transformative potential and its alignment with his ambitious career goals.
With a strong foundation in agronomy and years spent working in commercial export teams, Cristián transitioned into public service six years ago. Today, he plays a pivotal role in attracting multinational companies to invest in Chile.
“In my daily routine, I engage with CFOs, CEOs, COOs, business developers, and R&D professionals from major multinational companies,” he explains. “To be effective, I need to understand their business strategies and identify how I can add value to their decision-making processes.”
Recognising the need to sharpen his strategic and leadership skills, Cristián began exploring Executive MBA programmes.
“I did a lot of research before deciding to pursue further studies. I asked myself several questions: Is this the right programme for me? Is this the right time in my life? What are the costs versus the benefits? Ultimately, I concluded that an Executive MBA was what I wanted and that the timing was perfect.”
“In my daily routine, I engage with CFOs, CEOs, COOs, business developers, and R&D professionals from major multinational companie. To be effective, I need to understand their business strategies and identify how I can add value to their decision-making processes.”
-Cristian Sagal Lopez, Investment Commissioner France, InvestChile
Why choose the EDHEC EMBA Programme?
For Cristián, EDHEC stood out as the ideal choice.
“My first interaction with the EDHEC team was very positive; they were responsive to all my inquiries, which made a significant difference. Additionally, the programme matched exactly what I was looking for and offered a balance between work and study,” he shares.
Cristián’s decision was also influenced by the programme’s strong reputation and endorsements from friends.
“I also have friends from Chile who studied at EDHEC, and they all agreed that it was a great choice,” he adds.
A Programme Tailored for Transformation
The EDHEC EMBA is specifically designed to enable professionals to achieve their career aspirations without compromising their personal and professional commitments. Delivered over 16 or 19 months on a part-time basis, the programme allows participants to balance their studies with demanding schedules.
The curriculum blends core strategic modules with a range of electives, allowing participants to tailor their learning experience.
Electives such as Entrepreneurship & Innovation, AI and Digital Ethics, and a Healthcare Innovation & Technology Track ensure that the programme remains relevant to a wide variety of industries.
Moreover, the Transform360 leadership development programme provides participants with personalised coaching, group workshops, and assessments to refine both their professional and interpersonal skills.
Bridging Theory and Practice
A hallmark of the EDHEC EMBA is its emphasis on action learning.
Participants undertake a consulting project or business plan, addressing real-world challenges within their organisations or industries. These projects allow professionals to immediately apply their knowledge and deliver tangible value.
This practical focus aligns perfectly with Cristián’s work. His role as an Investment Commissioner requires not only strategic insight but also the ability to create actionable plans that resonate with multinational corporations.
Expanding Global Perspectives
The EDHEC EMBA is as much about broadening horizons as it is about deepening expertise. Through two international business trips, participants gain hands-on exposure to diverse markets and business practices. These immersive experiences are designed to enhance cross-cultural understanding and develop global strategic thinking.
For professionals like Cristián, whose work bridges international markets, this global emphasis is particularly valuable.
A World-Class Network
EDHEC’s reputation as one of Europe’s top business schools is complemented by its extensive alumni network. With over 60,000 members across 140 countries, the network provides unparalleled opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Joining this vibrant community, Cristián is not just advancing his own career but also contributing to a legacy of leadership and innovation.
“At the end, I believe I made the right choice and I look forward to this year with the EDHEC family,” he concludes.
Cristián’s journey with the EDHEC EMBA underscores the programme’s commitment to equipping leaders with the tools to drive meaningful change. Whether you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills, expand your global perspective, or make a lasting impact, the EDHEC EMBA offers a path to transformation.
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