Thomas Baudin is applying the strategic skills he’s picked up at EMLYON Business School to his own business
Thomas Baudin’s company, SyNext, develops state-of-the-art aeronautics innovations - like programs that assist blind pilots or help power unmanned aircraft.For half a decade, Thomas and his associates have run the aviation technology startup from its headquarters in the South of France. Now, he’s looking to use the management lessons he’s learning on EMLYON Business School’s Executive MBA program to take SyNext to new heights.
“The EMLYON EMBA is really useful in helping me understand the strengths and weaknesses of my business,” Thomas says. “As an entrepreneur, a lot of the things we learn during the EMBA are useful.”
A seasoned engineer, Thomas has ten years of experience in mobile and embedded software development. He also has worked in research and development and avionics systems.
The EMBA at EMLYON is designed to help students just like Thomas—highly skilled mid-career executives with minimal time on their hands—gain the skills needed in a management position. Recently ranked in the world’s top 10 executive MBA programs for career progress, the EMLYON EMBA focuses on developing viable business strategies and nurturing steady leadership.
Students at the program come from a variety of professional backgrounds. 41% of students have experience in management, economics or human sciences training. However, the majority are engineers like Thomas. In fact, they make up some 46% of EMLYON EMBA pupils.
“As an engineer, I have an excellent understanding of technical facts, which provides a strong image when dealing with customers,” Thomas says. “But there was a lack of understanding of the ‘non-technical’ part of the business. This is the thing I’m looking to gain from this EMLYON EMBA.”
The program’s structure allows students to learn a number of skills that they can take back into the workplace. Classes are offered over three days every month, with some of these courses specializing in so-called ‘soft skills’ like leadership, marketing, and innovation. Other modules focus on personal development, or even allow for international travel opportunities.
Overall business strategy is also emphasized, with classes in finance and marketing rounding out the EMLYON EMBA. Thomas says those classes have been a key part of his time at EMLYON, particularly as he begins handling SyNext’s finances.
“When I have to speak with partners or bankers, […] I can now fully understand their points of view and the metrics involved,” he says.
Thomas is set to graduate from EMLYON later this year. The EMBA program has been a challenge, but Thomas is adamant that it’s worth the effort.
He highlights the veteran professionals EMLYON attracts, and for good reason: School data shows that 40% of EMLYON EMBA students have 11 to 15 years of experience, while more than a fourth have 16 to 20 years.
“Do not underestimate the amount of work and time off from your job during the two years of the executive MBA,” he says.
“But definitively go for it,” he continues. “The people you meet are really open-minded and capable, and you will learn both from the courses and your colleagues.”
Student Reviews
Intense courses, helpful professors
I am an international student in my 3rd year and I love going to this school and do not regret chosing it for my BBA.
The classes are helpful, professors are always there to help as well and we have a very understanding administration.
Leadership in an amazing city
I decided to do my exchange in Emlyon because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone, and I found a space with very capable People.. participatory, empathetic and full of leadership. I will never forget Lyon, apart from giving me an unforgettable experience, he gave me great friends
A lot of opportunities professionally and socially. A unique program in France.
You can choose your courses and do your internship, exchange whenever you want. It's flexible and adapted to the needs of each student. A great program and a great city! Professionally, it opens a lot of doors for you to find internships or jobs in France or abroad thanks to the network and career events.
MSc in Digital Marketing
Combining both worlds into one, this course gave me all the on-demand technical skills in data science while maintaining a business-oriented approach. Thanks to the strong academic profile of this university I was able to secure an internship and full-time job at Amazon.
Top Business School fostering innovative entrepreneurs
EMLyon is one of the best business schools. The campuses, associations and courses offered provide the students with the best options to build the future they have chosen. The various opportunities to study and work abroad also offer a deeper understanding of the world, not only economy-wise but social, which helps the student become as well a better individual and not only a pre-formated business school student.
Emlyon campus in Paris
It has a great international community and you have access to many international tools, courses and professors. I had many networking events and workshops for students. Campus and some details of the program could have been improved or need to be bigger in order to have a better student life.
Entrepreneurship
Overall good content and good activities.
Lack of administration but still ok.
Good flexibility and liberty offered to the students. Finally, the amount of internship is also a good way to improve qualifications.
Good Reputation and International Business School
The course was not well adapted but it was up to the mark.
The professors are very well experienced and their experience comes in handy while working on assignments.
The facilities on the campus are top class. Truly professional. I really like spending time in the learning hub and using all the available resources.
Lyon is an amazing city. You will never get bored.
MSc International Hospitality Management
The best educational experience of my life so far!
It’s been full of exposure and great connections. From Lyon to London, Paris, Los Angeles and Las Vegas! Truly an exceptional way to discover the world of hospitality.
Real networking opportunities
- meeting new people, specially professionals during seminars or evening meeting at school.
- going abroad to study luxury
- being involved as an ambassador to promote the school and the program I was into (MSc LMM)
- having such a great professional core
white baccalaureate in the world of work
I really appreciated the MS SDAI as a whole. The teaching staff, the different subjects, the university exchange, TEM... I started my internship in a consulting firm having acquired a solid foundation. Downside for CentraleSupélec, which I found far too academic for a program such as this.
Great
Pretty great !
Emlyon business school is a top educational institution known for its outstanding academic programs, nurturing environment, and state-of-the-art facilities. It fosters creativity, critical thinking, and leadership in students.
