Executive MBA programs can help women in business become more impactful senior leaders at the C-suite level—here’s how
Trina Das has never subscribed to the notion that women aren’t suited for senior leadership. In fact, she has steadfastly believed that women can do anything, and her impressive career trajectory in the healthcare sector has proven that—and more.To support her ambitions, she recently completed an Executive MBA (EMBA), an impactful tool for professionals looking to enhance their leadership skills, expand their networks, and thrive in the corporate world.
BusinessBecause spoke to Trina about the three ways the program empowers women in business.
1. An Executive MBA can help women build their confidence in business
When Trina set out on the path to an EMBA, she had her sights set firmly on HEC Paris.
“HEC Paris is prestigious: The school combines academic excellence, a strong alumni network and a progressive mindset embracing diversity and sustainability,” she says.
Trina, who is originally from India, began her career as a PhD in life sciences before pivoting to healthcare consulting. She envisioned early on to move into a senior leadership position in healthcare.
Healthcare leadership has traditionally been a male-dominated realm, with women making up only 32% of C-suite executives, according to McKinsey. The disparity is even greater for women of color, who hold just 4% of these roles.
The EMBA program presented Trina with the opportunity to build a strong foundation in business, develop leadership skills, and to navigate strategic decision-making.
Confidence comes from believing in yourself and your capabilities. The EMBA made me feel better prepared to overcome challenges and achieve my goals.
The 18-month EMBA program at HEC Paris offers core courses in Impactful Leadership and Inspiring Diverse Teams, alongside business-focused courses in Corporate Finance and Digital Transformation.
The program also offers several customizable specializations, including courses on ‘Test your Startup Project’ in Paris and Silicon Valley or Healthcare Management and Policy in New York and Doha.
Trina adds that she needed a program that would allow her to juggle both her professional career and personal responsibilities. The HEC Paris EMBA offers four different part-time formats, benefiting students who require flexibility.
2. An Executive MBA can help women pivot to senior leadership roles
Coming from an academic background, Trina wanted to deepen her understanding of business organizations before she could confidently move into a senior leadership position in healthcare.
“I wanted to develop a clear vision of myself as a leader” she says.
"The capstone project is a core part of the EMBA program, and I focused on how and why to encourage female STEM graduates to become entrepreneurs."
She says some of her most valuable learnings from the project were about overcoming internal challenges such as leaving the comfort zone and tackling imposter syndrome.
"I have lived and worked on four continents, started a family abroad, and navigated career transitions. If I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone, I would have missed valuable opportunities to grow!
“Women lack role models in leadership and entrepreneurial roles,” she says, adding that the difficulties of raising a family while becoming a business leader can cause increased pressure.
Trina believes that embracing a risk-taking mindset is essential to bringing ideas further and creating impact, which is something the EMBA program instilled in her. The best idea has no value, if sitting on a dusty shelf.
“As a woman of color without generational wealth or network, it’s tough but not impossible to achieve your ambitions. You need to be willing to take the extra mile to unlock your real potential.”
Trina is now the director of medical strategy at global healthcare firm Alira Health in Germany.
She says women in STEM possess the knowledge to create innovation, but they lack the confidence to turn this into an impactful reality—this is where Executive MBA programs can help.
3. Executive MBA programs can help women build a strong business network
While Trina believes that no training can prepare you for a specific role or leadership position, she says she benefited from the diverse perspectives of her peers in the EMBA program.
“You gain an insight into different perspectives and life experiences, which you might have never thought about.”
There are typically around 60 different nationalities represented on the EMBA program, bringing an average of 15 years of professional experience.
The HEC Paris alumni network is 80,000-strong.
“The network is indispensable for lifelong learning,” she says, noting that being able to exchange with peers, professors, and alumni helps women feel they are not alone in their pursuits.
Trina says that collective action with an interdisciplinary approach is especially important in healthcare leadership. Combining the efforts of different teams in a meaningful way is crucial for success.
“Your role involves making lifesaving drugs available for the patient—your key stakeholder—it’s a big goal.
“The role of a leader is to listen to your team, know their capabilities, and make the best decisions to align them with the company’s mission and vision," she says.
When it comes to whether Trina recommends the EMBA to aspiring female business leaders, she offers some advice: “Make it clear to yourself, what are your personal and professional goals, and how can an MBA program address these? It will be a challenging journey ahead but it has the power to transform you.
“Choose a program that will best fit your personal needs, your personal situation, and professional growth,” she concludes.
Student Reviews
Cultural experience
I have met the most competent and diverse batch in this school. These people not only thrive on their own but also makes sure that you are doing it with them. The professors will take your had and walk you through all milestones and make sure you are not left behind. I have found their extracurriculars extremely engaging. There was always a room to have social life after academic life. The only hindrance is the location of the school, it is slightly outside city and living in city is expensive.
Internationality and diversity of opportunities
About my programme I would say it is very international and flexible: we have the opportunity to choose exactly the courses we want. But at the same time, the frame of the campus is crucial in students' life and enable us to create friendships.
Great selection of people
While HEC's MBA is highly selective, I really enjoy the type of people HEC's selects to make sure everybody gets the best out of their MBA experience and networking opportunities. Not only it's an incredibly diverse pool of people (~60 nationalities) but most importantly they make sure to let in friendly empathic and curious people.
Best in France for Grande ecole
A prestigious business school. Languages are important. It is better to have a scientific baccalaureate with excellent grades in high school and good assessments.
The courses are well designed as per the latest trends and practicality of learning in stressed upon. Overall, a very good experience.
Diversity and quality of fellow students
Very international and interesting place to be and opens a lot of opportunities, however the administration is very french and facilities are subpar (gym, classrooms) meaning the academic affairs is pretty much useless and lastly we are graded on a curve which can create a toxic environment because of the competition. With that being said the pros outweighs the cons by far.
The quality of the teachers, the campus, the clubs
The school is very international indeed, we have courses with international students and share things with them within the extra academic life (in the social clubs especially). We have great career prospects if we prepare ourselves well - however, the global curriculum is still very finance-oriented, which is a pity for other interesting domains of the company world, which does not rely on finance only. The social clubs are good practice for the management and for now, are quite independent.
HEC Paris awaits you
HEC Paris is really a nice place to do a master's in business. Many classes are useful and interesting (corporate finance, financial accounting, contract law…), some are less - but the curriculum is to be reviewed in the year to come. Regarding the student life, it is incredible, with about 130 clubs, lots of great parties with even greater people. The Jouy campus offers a lot of opportunities to do sports, and you can breathe fresh air every day. HEC also helps a great deal to find an internship or a job.
A dream institute
Enrolling in the HEC MBA was by far the best decision I made for myself. The people and faculty are great, with lots of opportunities to meet people and expand your horizons. Very nice campus where I have had some good running sessions.
The alumni network is superb and very helpful. It also has a good support system for entrepreneurs. Would definitely recommend it!
Good choice for a career boost
The classes were extremely practical and relevant to the current challenges that businesses are facing. You have access to a wide range of professionals and good career prospects once you leave the university.
Cultural experience
I have met the most competent and diverse batch in this school. These people not only thrive on their own but also makes sure that you are doing it with them. The professors will take your had and walk you through all milestones and make sure you are not left behind. I have found their extracurriculars extremely engaging. There was always a room to have social life after academic life. The only hindrance is the location of the school, it is slightly outside city and living in city is expensive.
Internationality and diversity of opportunities
About my programme I would say it is very international and flexible: we have the opportunity to choose exactly the courses we want. But at the same time, the frame of the campus is crucial in students' life and enable us to create friendships.
Great selection of people
While HEC's MBA is highly selective, I really enjoy the type of people HEC's selects to make sure everybody gets the best out of their MBA experience and networking opportunities. Not only it's an incredibly diverse pool of people (~60 nationalities) but most importantly they make sure to let in friendly empathic and curious people.
Best in France for Grande ecole
A prestigious business school. Languages are important. It is better to have a scientific baccalaureate with excellent grades in high school and good assessments.
The courses are well designed as per the latest trends and practicality of learning in stressed upon. Overall, a very good experience.
Diversity and quality of fellow students
Very international and interesting place to be and opens a lot of opportunities, however the administration is very french and facilities are subpar (gym, classrooms) meaning the academic affairs is pretty much useless and lastly we are graded on a curve which can create a toxic environment because of the competition. With that being said the pros outweighs the cons by far.
The quality of the teachers, the campus, the clubs
The school is very international indeed, we have courses with international students and share things with them within the extra academic life (in the social clubs especially). We have great career prospects if we prepare ourselves well - however, the global curriculum is still very finance-oriented, which is a pity for other interesting domains of the company world, which does not rely on finance only. The social clubs are good practice for the management and for now, are quite independent.
HEC Paris awaits you
HEC Paris is really a nice place to do a master's in business. Many classes are useful and interesting (corporate finance, financial accounting, contract law…), some are less - but the curriculum is to be reviewed in the year to come. Regarding the student life, it is incredible, with about 130 clubs, lots of great parties with even greater people. The Jouy campus offers a lot of opportunities to do sports, and you can breathe fresh air every day. HEC also helps a great deal to find an internship or a job.
A dream institute
Enrolling in the HEC MBA was by far the best decision I made for myself. The people and faculty are great, with lots of opportunities to meet people and expand your horizons. Very nice campus where I have had some good running sessions.
The alumni network is superb and very helpful. It also has a good support system for entrepreneurs. Would definitely recommend it!
Good choice for a career boost
The classes were extremely practical and relevant to the current challenges that businesses are facing. You have access to a wide range of professionals and good career prospects once you leave the university.
Diverse
HEC, as an academic institution, serves as a launching pad for students to excel in their pursuits and careers. The diversity among students and professors is truly remarkable. The chance to attend seminars across five major continents is unparalleled. The exposure and relationships it fosters are invaluable.
Super diverse
It's a super diverse and fascinating environment with tons of chances, but the management is very French, and the facilities like the gym and classrooms are not great. This makes the academic side quite ineffective. Plus, we're graded on a curve, leading to a competitive and sometimes toxic atmosphere. Despite all that, the benefits definitely overshadow the drawbacks.
Surreal academic experience
What stood out to me about HEC was the direction and insight it offered on coding approaches. Prior to joining the program, I attempted self-learning, but I felt disoriented and lacked a starting point.HEC enabled me to grasp the basics of programming and provided support when I encountered obstacles. Without that guidance, I doubt I would have achieved the progress I have made to date.
Good security
HEC boasts a dedicated team of security personnel who undergo rigorous training to ensure the perpetual maintenance of tranquility and orderliness within the institution. Their unwavering efforts are directed towards fostering a sense of security among the student body, thereby enabling them to channel their energies predominantly towards their academic pursuits.
Innovative teaching method
I am thoroughly enjoying my time at HEC, from the innovative teaching methods to the welcoming campus environment, which is particularly supportive of international students. The extracurricular opportunities, such as sports and associations, are incredibly valuable. Additionally, the career services offered are exceptional. Overall, I find my experience at HEC to be truly enriching.
mim
HEC Paris has been a transformative experience for me. The caliber of the faculty, the diversity of the student body, and the global network it offers are unmatched. The curriculum is highly flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to their career goals, and the focus on real-world application through case studies and consulting projects provides invaluable hands-on experience. The campus itself is beautiful, and the opportunities to engage with leading companies through internships, competitions, and networking events have been incredible. HEC truly prepares you to be a leader in today's complex business world. I couldn’t have asked for a better program to propel my career forward.
Unwavering enthusiasm
Here's the first paragraph:
I embarked on a journey to Paris, where HEC University welcomed me with open arms. As I stepped onto its prestigious campus, I was captivated by the infectious energy and innovative spirit that filled the air. The passionate faculty, industry experts, and fellow visionaries from around the globe shared their knowledge with unwavering enthusiasm."
Exceptional Experience
HEC offers an exceptional experience that I highly recommend. The small-town setting allows for a unique blend of academic rigor and community engagement. The peaceful campus and close-knit student body create a warm environment. Proactive engagement with professors yields valuable guidance. Friendships may blossom slowly, but persistence pays off. The city's beauty, scenic views, and diverse eateries near campus enrich the experience. University dining may not impress, but it's decent.
A Transformative Experience
Attending HEC Paris is an exceptional experience, combining world-class education with personal and professional growth opportunities.
The courses are incredibly engaging, delivered by highly qualified professionals who are specialists in their domains and often work or have work experience in prestigious companies. Far from being purely theoretical, the programs emphasise practical, hands-on learning, allowing students to dive deep into whichever area they want to specialise in. The variety of elective courses is remarkable - you can explore anything from advanced financial techniques to more cultural disciplines like politics, arts, and cinema.
Beyond academics, the student life at HEC is vibrant and dynamic. With over 50 student associations to join, there's something that will fit for everyone. Whether you are passionate about entrepreneurship, sports, arts, cuisine, social causes or anything else, HEC offers a space to explore and develop your interests.
The campus itself is well-equipped, providing students with everything they need for a comfortable and enriching experience. From excellent accommodations and sports facilities with professional coaching to a sprawling green area perfect for walking or relaxing, the environment is both stimulating and tranquil. And with Paris just a short bus ride away, students have the added benefit of easy access to one of the world's most beautiful cities.
However, what truly sets HEC apart is the unparalleled networking opportunities it provides. The school fosters connections through daily conferences in various fields of business (and not only business), networking events, site visits, and alumni cocktails. The alumni network is incredibly powerful, opening doors to countless opportunities and making it easier to connect with professionals in your dream field. The career center is another standout feature, offering invaluable support to help students navigate their career paths.
In conclusion, HEC Paris is much more than a top-tier European business school - it’s a transformative experience that equips you with the knowledge, skills, and connections to achieve your goals while also helping you discover what you’re truly passionate about.
Exceptional and esteemed institution
My time at HEC Paris was nothing short of incredible! The exceptional faculty, cutting-edge curriculum, and breathtaking campus exceeded my expectations. But what truly made my experience stand out was the diverse and dynamic community. I forged lasting bonds with people from all corners of the globe and gained invaluable insights from their unique perspectives.
The career prospects and alumni network that come with graduating from HEC Paris are unparalleled. I feel privileged to have been part of this esteemed institution and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a top-tier business education.
