Transforming Business Leaders: EDHEC’s Sustainable Impact Challenge
A New Era of Sustainability
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, sustainability has become a critical component of business strategy. EDHEC Business School, a pioneer in integrating sustainability into its curriculum, has taken a bold step forward with its Sustainable Impact Challenge. This innovative program empowers MBA students to tackle real-world sustainability issues, preparing them to become leaders in a rapidly changing business landscape.
A Personal Journey of Transformation
Stephanie Brooks, a seasoned recruitment industry executive, was drawn to EDHEC’s Global MBA program for its international scope, short duration, and focus on sustainability. Little did she know that her decision would have a profound impact on her career. During the Sustainable Impact Challenge, Brooks and her teammates worked with Louis DuPont, a French interim management firm, to address gender parity in companies with over 1,000 employees. This project sparked a new passion in Brooks, leading her to launch Rendezvous Partners, a growth advisory startup dedicated to promoting women in leadership roles.
A Commitment to Sustainability
EDHEC’s commitment to sustainability dates back 15 years, when it became the first MBA program to integrate a sustainability learning expedition into its curriculum. Today, the school’s Global MBA has been ranked 4th worldwide for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and Net Zero teaching by the Financial Times for four consecutive years. Sandra Richez, EDHEC Global MBA program director, explains that the school’s focus on sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a deliberate effort to prepare graduates for the challenges of the future.
The Sustainable Impact Challenge: A Win-Win
The Sustainable Impact Challenge brings together companies, faculty, and students to tackle real-world sustainability issues. Fourteen companies presented their challenges to the Class of 2025, vying for the attention of enterprising MBA teams. From Biohm’s sustainable products made from mushroom fibers to IBM’s AI-powered dashboard for sustainability reporting, the projects offer a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience and make a meaningful impact.
A Global Perspective on Sustainability
The Sustainable Impact Challenge attracts students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that projects are informed by a global perspective. Sandra Richez notes that students from Asia, Europe, and the U.S. bring different perspectives on sustainability, sharing best practices and learning from one another. This intercultural exchange enriches the project outcomes and provides a significant boost to the sponsoring companies.
From Pitch Day to Career Launch
The Sustainable Impact Challenge culminates in a final event and awards ceremony, where students present their project reports to companies and a jury panel of sustainability professionals. Many students go on to secure internships or full-time positions with the companies they collaborate with, while others, like Hamid Rafieian, EDHEC MBA ’24, launch their own ventures focused on sustainability.
A New Generation of Sustainability Leaders
EDHEC’s Sustainable Impact Challenge is more than just a program – it’s a movement. By empowering MBA students to tackle real-world sustainability issues, EDHEC is shaping a new generation of leaders who will drive positive change in the business world. As the global economy continues to evolve, one thing is clear: sustainability will be at the forefront of business strategy, and EDHEC’s graduates will be leading the way.
Leave a Reply