EPFL EMBA PARTICIPANTS
PARTICIPANTS 2025-26
Sasha Kakoichankava is an entrepreneur and co-founder of FiberLab, a Swiss startup based at EPFL developing rapid diagnostic technologies using biological fluids. She brings diverse experience in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, having previously worked in R&D at Nativita on therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and at the Luxembourg Institute of Health in bioinformatics. As and MD, Aliaksandra combines scientific expertise with an entrepreneurial drive to bring innovative healthcare solutions to market.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I joined the EPFL EMBA to strengthen my ability to transform scientific innovation into impactful business solutions. As co-founder of FiberLab, my goals are to grow as a leader, scale our startup, and expand internationally. I am excited to learn from outstanding professors and to connect with inspiring new people.Antonios Papaemmanouil drives innovation, technology, and people development to accelerate the energy transition and electrification. As an energy-tech leader across industry and academia, he identifies opportunities, shapes strategy, and builds collaborative ecosystems. He is co-founder and CEO of FlexEVility and leads business and project development at HES-SO.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I chose the EPFL EMBA for its strong reputation and focus on innovation and technology. The program strengthens and extends my knowledge, builds on my technical background, and positions me to advance my career while creating more value for business partners with the latest practices.Aurélien Michaud serves as Head of Wealth Management and Executive Board Member at Banque Cantonale du Jura. With over 15 years of experience in finance, he leads teams in delivering tailored investment solutions to private and institutional clients. Passionate about innovation, leadership, and strategic transformation, he strives to create lasting impact for clients and his organization.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I was looking for more than a traditional business school EMBA. The EPFL program’s strong link with innovation and technology perfectly matches today’s transformation of the financial industry. It offers the ideal environment to enhance my leadership and strategic impact in a rapidly changing world.With over 15 years of experience in Product Management, Bart drives digital transformation for multinational corporations. He has been instrumental in leading cross-functional teams and guiding product managers, business analysts, and designers through the complexities of modern medical devices. As Global Product Director Bart is passionate about technology’s role in reshaping operations, fostering growth, and delivering value. His journey is fueled by a commitment to helping organizations embrace change, ensuring that digitalization is not just a goal, but a sustainable path forward.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I chose EPFL’s EMBA to refine my global product leadership experience and, more importantly, to explore new directions at the intersection of business and technology. After reviewing many programs - EPFL’s innovation-driven approach and academic rigor made it the clear choice for my next chapter.David Gachet oversees a portfolio of publicly funded R&D projects and leads the Sub-System Department at Alpes Lasers, a leading laser manufacturer based in St-Blaise, Neuchâtel. He brings extensive experience in application development, cross-functional project management, and team leadership across both startup and multinational environments. Previously, he led a team of skilled engineers at Richemont, where they developed automation and machine learning–based quality control solutions for the group’s Maisons and Manufactures.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
Having developed my career in innovative environments — ranging from academia and a startup company to Richemont’s R&I department — I felt the need to deepen my understanding of the strategic aspects of innovation, build a solid foundation in finance, and enhance my leadership skills. The EPFL’s EMBA program came as a natural choice. The program is demanding, but intellectually highly rewarding.Elmira Gazizova is Product Marketing Manager and AI Adoption Lead at keyIT SA, a Swiss IT consulting firm specializing in cybersecurity, cloud, and data. She develops go-to-market strategies for IT and AI services and leads AI adoption programs for SMEs. With over a decade of international experience, she bridges marketing, technology, and strategy to drive business growth and innovation.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I joined the EPFL EMBA to broaden my strategic perspective and leadership capabilities. My diverse experience across countries and industries has shaped a deep understanding of technology and marketing, and I wanted a program that connects these strengths with advanced strategic thinking and innovation management.Ganesh Venkateshwaran is Head of Data Analytics for Risk & Compliance at Banque Pictet & Cie SA in Geneva. Over his 17-year career, he has built the bank’s first analytics team for Wealth Management, leading initiatives that enhance regulatory insight, automate reporting, and strengthen data governance. A Swiss-Indian national and EPFL alumnus, Ganesh bridges technology, risk, and strategy to advance responsible innovation in finance.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I joined the EPFL EMBA to bridge technology and executive leadership. EPFL’s innovation-driven curriculum offers the tools and mindset to scale data analytics from operational support to strategic impact—helping shape a more agile, data-empowered and responsible financial industry.After carefully evaluating options exploring Executive MBA programs, I chose EPFL’s one, for it’s unique blend of Strategic management, innovation focus and in-person collaboration. This program, I’m sure, will strengthen my ability to lead at the intersection of technology and business, driving innovation and growth.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
After carefully evaluating options exploring Executive MBA programs, I chose EPFL's one, for it's unique blend of Strategic management, innovation focus and in-person collaboration. This program, I'm sure, will strengthen my ability to lead at the intersection of technology and business, driving innovation and growth.Ignacio Palacios is an Operational Excellence Manager with experience in the pharmaceutical and automotive industries. He drives process optimization, efficiency, and sustainable results through a mix of strategic insight and hands-on problem-solving. Known for his analytical thinking and clear communication, Ignacio fosters teamwork, continuous learning, and innovation to help organizations become more agile and future-ready.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I joined the EPFL EMBA to strengthen my strategic thinking and learn how to identify new business model innovations within companies. I want to bridge my operational excellence background with a deeper understanding of strategy to help organizations grow, adapt, and create lasting value.Jipson Raju is a Chip Design Engineer with over a decade of experience in leading semiconductor companies. He currently works as a Product Marketing Engineer at STMicroelectronics, where he connects customers with the right technology solutions. In his role, he balances technical and commercial considerations, ensuring that innovation aligns with customer needs and business goals effectively.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
EPFL is being one of the leading universities, offers a program that perfectly blends technology and management. After years as an engineer, I joined the EPFL EMBA to bridge my technical expertise with business leadership skills and enhance my ability to connect customer needs with innovative solutions.Jonas Schnidrig is a researcher and lecturer at HES-SO Valais-Wallis and EPFL, passionate about energy and solution-oriented thinking. With a PhD in sustainable energy system planning, he works at the intersection of research, education, and innovation to develop strategies for the energy transition, fostering collaboration across sectors to design solutions that are ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I joined the EPFL EMBA because the energy transition won’t be solved by kilowatts alone. It needs bold ideas, new business models, and people willing to rethink how decisions are made. This program gives me the chance to step outside the research bubble, challenge myself, and work with inspiring peers to make change happen—humans first, spreadsheets second.With over a decade of HR leadership experience in large non-profit organizations, I currently serve as HR Director in a foundation supporting people with disabilities. My background in psychology and early career as a jeweler have given me a unique perspective on human potential, creativity, and organizational transformation.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
After ten years in HR leadership, I felt the need to see beyond the HR function and better understand how all parts of an organization connect. The EPFL EMBA is a chance to broaden my strategic view, challenge my thinking, and reconnect with the pleasure of learning after years focused on daily operations.As part of Swisscom’s digital transformation, I operate at the nexus of technology and innovation, to drive DevOps excellence, automation, and AI-enabled solutions. My work enhances delivery efficiency and fosters cross-unit collaboration, supporting a more agile and responsive organization. Actively engaged in innovation projects, I promote continuous learning and experimentation. By aligning technical capabilities with strategic goals, I support Swisscom’s transformation to a data-driven, customer-centric digital ecosystem leader.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
The decision to join the EPFL EMBA was driven by its unique integration of innovation, technology, and business leadership. Among several executive programs in Switzerland, EPFL stood out for its applied learning, distinguished faculty, and diverse cohort, providing the ideal setting to expand my strategic outlook and bridge operational expertise with innovation leadership.As an Account Manager at Meanquest, Lu Wang delivers cutting-edge ICT solutions that empower organizations through digital transformation. With expertise spanning cloud migration, cybersecurity, data protection, and infrastructure development, she excels at addressing complex client challenges, leading cross-functional teams, and driving innovative, tailored solutions that create lasting business impact.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
EPFL’s EMBA stands out for its focus on technology-driven leadership and entrepreneurship—perfectly aligned with my goals. I’m eager to learn from renowned faculty and collaborate with a diverse network of leaders, gaining strategic, innovative, and leadership insights to drive meaningful impact in the digital era.Madalena is an executive, entrepreneur, and coach working at the intersection of innovation, strategy, and people. She partners with organizations and leaders to unlock long-term value, for people, planet, and profit. Currently heading up HR at KITRO, an AI food waste automation company that delivers efficiency, cost savings, and CO₂ reduction. With over a decade of experience at corporates like Coca-Cola and several impact-driven scale-ups, Madalena helps organizations bridge strategy and execution, by aligning innovation, culture, and operational excellence to drive long-term value.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I'm at my best when I'm building, growing and contributing to people, planet and business. An EMBA aligned with my goals for personal growth and offered a way to connect with a community of discoverers and builders. What better global institution than EPFL? A hub for true innovation, world class professionals and education, all coming together to create true value for people, planet and business.Manuel serves as Research Associate and Head of Digital Transformation at the Swiss Armed Forces Logistics Organisation. He leads initiatives advancing the digital transformation of defence logistics. Drawing on a background in education and the social sciences, his work bridges strategy, innovation, and public value creation, translating complex insights into actionable solutions within a mission-driven environment.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
After exploring several (Executive) MBA options in Switzerland and abroad, I chose the EPFL EMBA for its strong focus on innovation. Its balance of academic depth and practical application, as well as the diverse cohort, fits my goal to deepen my leadership skills for driving human-centred transformation in complex systems.Marius Herrmann is a results-driven professional with broad international experience across sectors. Before joining Somagenetix AG, he worked at Centogene, the Swiss Ministry of Health, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, and SG Analytics. He has gained experience in Africa, Europe, and Asia. Holding an MSc in Economics from the University of Bern, Marius now serves as Head of Operations at Somagenetix, driving strategic planning and operational excellence.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
Working in an innovation-driven sector, I was drawn to the EPFL EMBA for its strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. EPFL’s global reputation for excellence and cutting-edge research makes it an ideal environment to grow. The combination of in-class learning and the inspiring setting in french speaking Lausanne further enhances the program’s appeal.Matthias Bucher is a technology leader at Swissgrid, the national electricity transmission system operator, with 15 years of professional experience in the energy sector and academia. As Head of R&D, he spearheads technology and data-driven innovation to increase Switzerland’s security of electricity supply, contribute to the facilitation of the energy transition and fostering an innovation culture within the company.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
The EPFL EMBA program’s hands-on approach integrates both the business and technological aspects of innovation management, which immediately resonated with my professional focus.<br /> The engaging cohort compiled with seasoned leaders from different industries, a variety of backgrounds and cultures provides an enriching and dynamic learning environment.From watchmaking to consumer electronics, Mauro brings precision and purpose to design leadership at JTI. As Product Design Manager, he shapes meaningful innovations where desirability, feasibility and viability meet. With more than a decade of creative expertise and as a champion of the Jobs-to-be-Done methodology, he drives transformations that feel like progress, not compromise. Passionate about leading creative teams, Mauro bridges aesthetics and meaning, where every detail tells a story.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
To unite design leadership and strategic impact. The EPFL EMBA’s unique blend of technology, innovation and management provides the perfect ground to lead transformation at scale with purpose. It’s a journey to refine my craft, broaden my perspective and drive meaningful progress in my career.Marketing Communications Specialist and Head of Alumni Relations at the International School of Lausanne. With a solid background in brand development, innovation projects, and strategic communication, Mélody brings a creative, results-driven approach to business. Passionate about connecting people and ideas, she leads impactful campaigns and alumni initiatives that support growth and transformation across international and multicultural environments.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I joined the EPFL EMBA to accelerate my growth as a leader in marketing and innovation, and to expand my expertise in technology-driven strategy. The programme’s focus on practical application, diverse perspectives, and entrepreneurial spirit is the ideal match for my ambitions to drive transformation and create value.Michael Will
Nationality: German
Industry: Industrial Manufacturing
Michael Will is a passionate textile professional and Head of Textile Technology at Rieter AG, Winterthur/Switzerland. He has been managing R&D projects for over 20 years. In his current position he is responsible for all textile functions at Rieter AG, while keeping a strong focus on fiber and spinning research. Enabling the production of high quality yarns from recycled fibers is currently his main goal.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
The EPFL EMBA attracted me from the beginning with its strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurial thinking, and collaborative culture. I'm convinced that the learnings and experiences I will gain through the program will positively impact my future in multiple ways.Miguel Fontes Medeiros serves as a Systems Engineer at EPFL, Switzerland. He is a pragmatic engineer, used to work in challenging international environments. Miguel has previously worked at CERN and has developed significant experience throughout his career on deploying and operating complex IT infrastructures. His role requires a constant flexible mindset to face the challenges of an innovative and fast-paced environment like EPFL. His mission is to help drive EPFL’s research progress with his contributions.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
It took me longer to decide the best timing to pursue an EMBA, than which EMBA to pursue. Choosing EPFL’s EMBA was a clear decision. EPFL’s values speak closely to my heart, with a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. This EMBA offered the right ecosystem to challenge my thinking models. In a fast-changing world, adaptability is crucial, and this EMBA is a great tool in my skillset.Olexiy Kochubey obtained his PhD in Neurosciences from the University of Göttingen, Germany, and has been working as a research scientist at the Brain Mind Institute, Faculty of Life Sciences, EPFL. Over almost 20 years of experience, the focus of his multidisciplinary research transited from the molecular mechanisms of synaptic transmission to the function of neural circuits in control of behaviour. Besides the research and problem solving, his role includes co-supervision of the doctoral students, implementation of innovative methodologies, laboratory management, and teaching.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I was certainly biased since during my years at EPFL I could witness its strength in innovations. The curriculum is perfectly tailored to gain the knowledge and skills I vitally need for boosting my current competences as well as for a future career change. My observations during the first two months of the Program: the brilliant faculty and excellent peers - have reassured me of the right choice!Olivier Girault, Innovation Engineering group lead at Nestlé Research, Lausanne in Switzerland. With a strong background in engineering and innovation management, he spearheads initiatives that drive product development and technological advancements within the organization, contributing to Nestlé’s commitment to continuously innovate.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
After evaluating various educational programs, I found that the EPFL EMBA offered a strong reputation as a technical school with a focus on innovation. This emphasis aligns perfectly with my career goals, particularly in harnessing innovation. Additionally, its geographical proximity made it an ideal choice for me.Paul Cohen Tervaert works as an independent Construction Project Manager with clients in Switzerland and the Netherlands. With experience in retail construction and fast-track supermarket projects, he also brings a background in industrial asset management across steel, oil & gas and food industries. A connector and team player, he thrives in high-paced environments and delivers results through creativity and a hands-on approach.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I joined the EPFL EMBA to grow from operational project management into a more strategic leadership role. I’m excited to exchange ideas with peers from different industries and bring a hands-on perspective on making innovation work in the real world. The program’s focus on innovation and personal development fits exactly where I want to go next.As Finance Manager at a deep-tech company pioneering AI solutions for agriculture, Renaud Choquard specializes in corporate finance and strategic fundraising. He has played a key role in several successful financing rounds from Series A through D. With a strong understanding of the Swiss startup ecosystem, he brings valuable insights into how to scale innovative companies and disrupt entire markets.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
Joining the EPFL EMBA was a natural choice given its strong focus on innovation and technology. Working in the Swiss startup ecosystem, I was looking for a program that combines business leadership with concrete knowledge in innovation, and a holistic approach to bringing ideas from concept to market.Roberto Giovannini, is a senior biopharma executive with 20+ years in CMC strategy, bioprocess development, and GMP manufacturing. As Chief Process & Manufacturing Officer at Ichnos Sciences, he led 100+ staff delivering INDs/IMPDs and clinical batches for multi-specific antibodies. Previously at Boehringer Ingelheim, he directed global CMC and regulatory strategies to Phase III/BLA. He began at Bayer with Factor VIII scale-up and holds a PhD in Chemistry from EPFL.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
I chose the EPFL EMBA because of its strong focus on innovation and technology, which perfectly complements my 20+ years in biotech and CMC leadership. The program will help me build the strategic, financial, and leadership skills needed to transform scientific advances into sustainable business impact.Rudolf Debelak is a researcher at the University of Zurich and EPFL who conducts research and develops products in the field of AI in Education. With a strong expertise in psychology, statistics and machine learning, he has professional experience in both academia and the private sector, with a focus on SMEs in edtech.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
The Executive MBA program at EPFL is quite unique in its focus on innovation and technology, which sets it apart from similar programs in Switzerland and abroad. This made the decision easy for me. The courses are world-class level, scientifically based and directly related to real-world business problems.Wojciech Fabian is a Data Scientist and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) in the Internal Audit department at Swiss Re in Zurich. With over a decade of experience in data science and analytics, he applies advanced analytics and AI to strengthen business processes. He thrives on turning data into actionable insights that drive strategic decisions and continuous value creation. He leads initiatives to upskill his department’s data capabilities, fostering innovation and efficiency.
Why I chose EPFL EMBA?
My ambition to grow as a strategic leader inspired me to pursue the EMBA at EPFL, renowned for its excellence in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. Its blend of practical projects, leadership training, and cutting-edge research aligns perfectly with my goals and offers a unique opportunity to connect with ambitious professionals from diverse backgrounds.VIEW MORE 2025-26 PARTICIPANTS