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Why did you choose to study an Executive MBA at SSE? 

The SSE MBA curriculum and location were a perfect match for me! As the Disease Area Lead in a biopharmaceutical company, I ran all pre-launch preparations for a novel small molecule in the Nordics and dreamed of leading the full launch. However, I needed to become a Brand Marketing Leader to lead the commercial launch.

No one had previously transitioned from medical to marketing at my company, and I needed the skill set for success. The SSE MBA's focus on international entrepreneurship and business management foundations was precisely what I needed. The location enabled me to continue launch preparations while growing as an aspiring business leader.

How did the MBA affect your career during the program?

I significantly enhanced my strategic leadership and enterprise mindset by being immersed in the MBA coursework and surrounded by inspiring peers, faculty, and business leaders from various industries. The MBA experience provided an excellent foundation. I got the Brand Lead role and led the Nordic cross-functional team through a stellar launch.

How would the SSE MBA have contributed to your professional and personal development? And how has it been of benefit to your employer?

The SSE MBA equipped me with the business management tools to lead a brand or business with an enterprise mindset. I enhanced my leadership growth through the peer-to-peer exchange with our fantastic cohort of leaders representing an immense breadth and depth of experience. It gave me invaluable insights into various business cultures, international leadership, business, and personal trade-offs not described in textbooks. I got to experience the value of business mentorship early in my career with great friendships for life. This has shaped my entrepreneurial and enterprise leadership style and built significant value for the company.  

You have had a successful global career, what is your main advice to someone who would like to have an international career?

I have lived abroad for 18 years, had children born abroad, and have a growing family in Sweden with my stepkids and now grandchildren. It’s hard not to be together all the time. Still, if you genuinely desire international work experience, I advise engaging your loved ones to explore options that fit your unique situation and try them! For some, it means moving abroad. For others, it can be an international short-term project.

In addition to being open to learning new cultures and ways of working, my personal experience is that leaving your comfort zone accelerates self-awareness and broadens your mindset - a differentiator in the world of global possibilities and competition. To find opportunities and engage in international projects or networks. When relocating, invest in building support beyond what is provided for you and your family. A dear colleague, now living in LA, created a list of vetted family doctors, dentists, schools, food shops, and more, which was immensely helpful when we moved from Amsterdam to Princeton, USA.

Do you have any advice for future SSE MBA participants? What would you say to someone considering studying for an MBA? Any words of wisdom you would like to share?

I live by Eleanor Roosevelt's mantra, 'Do one thing every day that scares you.' For me, this means stepping out of my comfort zone and trying something I've always hesitated to do, like starting my own company and engaging in start-ups. It’s a reminder that growth comes from pushing through those moments of discomfort, and every small act of courage builds a more experienced, braver version of myself.

Maybe you have always dreamed of an MBA or hesitated to pursue one. Either way, your MBA foundations and networks are a power source throughout your life and career!

It’s been a long time since you started your MBA studies. Are you still in contact with your classmates?

Yes! I keep in touch with several classmates, and last autumn, we had a great meetup in Stockholm after an extended break. The plan is to meet two to three times yearly.

Was it worth it?

Definitely! I look back on those busy and fun years with joy and pride. The MBA opened many doors and set me up for where I am today. True to my mantra, I am now following my dream of starting my own business, ADASTRA Partners, and I’m engaged in two Health Tech startups after leaving a long corporate career where I have held various commercial roles and most recently Vice President of Market Access for the US and Global Market Access and Pricing. Reconnecting with SSE has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to give back to the school that gave me so much!