In this series, EMBA alumni share their motivations, experiences, and the impact the program has had on their careers and professional lives.
Could you give a short introduction of yourself (your profession and company)?
I am currently Head of CNS Business Management & Transformation at Skyguide, the Swiss air navigation service provider responsible for managing and monitoring Swiss airspace and adjoining areas. Our mission is to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable air traffic for both civil and military flights. In aviation and air traffic control, CNS (Communication, Navigation and Surveillance) refers to the technical infrastructure that enables pilots and air traffic controllers to communicate, accurately locate aircraft, and safely guide them through controlled airspace. In my role, I steer CNS governance and transformation while maintaining strong oversight of resources, services, and asset inventories. I lead key governance meetings, monitor budgets and costs, follow up on the project portfolio, ensure effective service management, and drive internal transformation initiatives—such as the implementation of Service Level Agreements (SLAs)—to ensure CNS operates efficiently in all operational contexts.
What was your main motivation when you enrolled in the Geneva EMBA?
My motivation was multi-dimensional. I wanted to develop advanced skills in marketing, strategy, finance, and leadership, while strengthening my decision-making and transformation capabilities. I was also preparing a transition from IT to another industry—energy or aviation, with aviation ultimately becoming my final choice. Building a strong professional network with peers and regional leaders was another key driver.
At the end of your program, do you feel that this motivation was fulfilled?
Absolutely. While the diploma itself is highly valuable, it was never the ultimate goal. Rather, it marked the beginning of an exciting new professional and personal journey.
What personal transformation did this program bring about in you?
The EMBA helped me develop a strategic mindset, shifting from operational thinking to a broader, enterprise-level perspective and better connecting transformation initiatives with long-term business strategy. It also contributed to a clear leadership evolution, strengthening my leadership presence, confidence, and ability to influence stakeholders and lead cross-functional teams.
Finally, it fostered greater self-awareness and resilience, enhancing my emotional intelligence, capacity for self-reflection, and ability to perform under pressure. In a nutshell, the program brought true professional and personal maturity, along with a stronger ability to step back and analyze situations from a strategic standpoint.
And what transformation did it lead to in your professional journey?
This experience opened the door to leading cross-functional teams, giving me the opportunity to turn theory into action and bring to life the knowledge gained throughout the EMBA.
How would you personally define self-leadership?
Self-leadership starts with knowing myself—being consciously aware of what I feel, think, and do, and understanding the impact this has on my life. It also means owning my choices, managing my time, energy, and reactions, and staying motivated when challenges arise. Lastly, it involves knowing my limits: understanding my strengths and weaknesses, being honest about what I can and cannot do, and asking for help, suggesting alternatives, or taking breaks when needed.
In your opinion, what do Swiss companies need most today?
Swiss companies must continue to innovate and invest in areas such as AI, automation, and cybersecurity to remain competitive. They also need to strengthen and diversify supply chains while preparing for geopolitical tensions, exchange-rate volatility, and increasing economic pressures. Broadening talent pools is essential—integrating cross-border expertise alongside Swiss and global professionals—while investing more in youth through entry-level roles, apprenticeships, and training programs to build future talent pipelines and long-term loyalty.
What advice would you give to a newly enrolled student in the program?
Start working on self-leadership from day one by reflecting regularly on your actions and aligning them with your values and goals. Actively build your network by engaging with classmates from diverse backgrounds and participating in projects and events.
Manage your time carefully to avoid burnout, and approach the EMBA as a long-term journey—seeing it not only as an intensive two-year program, but as the starting point of lifelong learning through continued alumni engagement.
