Carolyn Marie Crichton is a Project Manager for the Laboratory of Astrophysics (LASTRO) at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). She is currently the Director for the Swiss consortium for the Square Kilometre Array (SKACH), where she serves the SKACH community, ensuring meaningful Swiss contribution to the international organization.

She also has diverse international experience, previously working as the project manager for the Hydrogen Intensity and Real-time Analysis eXperiment (HIRAX) in South Africa, and a project support contractor for the Exploration and Space Communications Division at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in the US.

Carolyn does project management to support scientists doing science.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

I chose to do my EMBA at EPFL because I believe the focus on innovation management can provide vital insights for successful management in scientific collaborations. Scientific collaborations, such as those in astrophysics and astronomy, provide a natural birth place for innovation. The resulting consortia experience unique challenges as they develop large-scale projects dedicated to exploring our universe. In the academic environment, principal investigators (scientists) are currently not only responsible for leading research, but also the design, construction, and commission of the instrumentation that enables their research. As management needs increase, universities are experiencing a cultural shift, leading to questions about how project managers and innovative business practices can fit into these organizational structures. I hope to focus the knowledge gained in the EPFL EMBA to begin to answer these questions!

Cédric Boesch is a skilled engineer with a specialization in medical devices. With a solid foundation gained during his four-year tenure at Philippe Etter Conseil/Medidée, where he worked as a consultant in quality and regulatory affairs, Cédric embarked on a new chapter in his career at BRACCO Injeneering in Lausanne. Here, he assumed various key roles, including regulatory affairs specialist, quality manager, and ultimately, regulatory manager. Building on seven years of invaluable experience at BRACCO Injeneering, Cédric made the strategic decision to bring his expertise to DIXI Medical. DIXI Medical is a leading company dedicated to the development and manufacturing of state-of-the-art devices for epilepsy management.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

Advancing innovation within the realm of medical devices stands as the linchpin in ensuring both patients and users benefit from cutting-edge technologies in the treatment of various medical conditions. To excel in this mission, a profound comprehension of the multifaceted challenges confronting the medical device industry is key. These encompass cost containment, market dynamics, team collaboration, financial intricacies, and more. Recognizing the imperative nature of these challenges, DIXI Medical has enabled me to enroll in the eMBA program at EPFL. This educational endeavor will empower me to markedly enhance my expertise in innovation and seamlessly apply these insights to my role.

Chaymae Samir is a Business Operations Manager and a Project Director in the railway industry.
Passionate about building, strategy and rail transport, Chaymae has a record of success in managing large projects, with teams of various backgrounds and technical fields.

As a civil engineer and as the world is in a constant change, Chaymae aims to contribute to shaping it.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

EPFL EMBA will allow me to gain in forward-thinking and provide me with keys to enhance innovation in my activities to create an environment that enjoys cutting-edge technologies, combined with ecodesign and business performance.

Elena Beltrami is a Managing Consultant with 7+ years of experience in implementing large-scale IT system integration projects across diverse markets, being successfully in delivering a sustainable and valuable delivery. Elena and her team play a pivotal role in complex digital implementation programs, ensuring tool adoption.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

I chose the EPFL EMBA course for its tech and innovation focus and excellent reputation. Moreover, the emphasis on change management resonates with my experience in leading complex IT initiatives.

Dr Fadi Hachem is a civil engineer with a PhD and a Master of Advanced Studies in Hydraulic Management and Engineering from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne. With 25 years of experience, he is currently the Head of Acqusition and Contractual Management Department and Projects’ Director in Gruner Stucky Ltd. In his many years of professional experience, he worked on several projects in the field of hydraulic structures, water supply, hydropower schemes, flood and debris flow protection projects, and dam design. He has been involved in the design and rehabilitation studies for RCC, embankment and arch dams, as well as, for high-head pumped storage power plants. Dr Hachem is an expert in FIDIC contracts and international contracts management, as well as in acquisition and tendering of construction works as per the IFIs and international rules and practices. He has exceptional skills in project management, contract negotiations, project financing and resolving conflicts between stakeholders.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

I see it as natural next step for my career progression and personal development.

As an Engineer and Project Manager in charge of watches development at Audemars Piguet, Ianis Cercariolo has a deep passion for exploring new technologies and driving technical breakthroughs. His relentless quest for knowledge empowers him to push technological boundaries, advocating progress through innovation.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

I chose EPFL EMBA for its international reputation, rich perspectives from classmates, hands-on approach, and strong emphasis on innovation, to become an even more impactful actor of change.

Jaco Rust is the Group Financial Controller at IWG, a global forerunner in the flexible workspace market recognized as the industry’s largest network. A seasoned Chartered Accountant, his multifaceted expertise is evident across an array of financial disciplines, sectors, and international experiences. His acumen extends beyond conventional accounting to encompass areas such as financial strategy, orchestrating M&A transactions, overseeing complex reporting, and pioneering the application of blockchain technology in financial processes. His proficiency in these domains has been honed through his involvement in organizations, ranging from emerging startups to global enterprises.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

The EMBA's renowned faculty and hands-on approach to learning will equip me with advanced insights into successful value creation and strategic thinking necessary to further excel my contribution to the ever-evolving landscape of finance and technology.

Jimmy Majed is a Product Owner on Business Computing at CERN. He has diverse software engineering experience having previously worked in information technology in the travel industry.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

EPFL EMBA offers prestige, academic excellence, focus on technology, global network, practical learning, flexibility, personal/professional development, and a prime location, making it an attractive choice for executives seeking a rigorous and innovative program.

Jonathan Fusco serves as the Program Manager in charge of the Fill and Finish portfolio at Debiopharm Research and Manufacturing SA, a Swiss-based global leader in injectable, sustained-release technology. Starting his career with a chemistry apprenticeship, he developed a pragmatic, goal-oriented mindset further enriched by advanced studies in engineering, biotechnology, and genetics, for which he holds a Master degree. During his studies, he received an award for notable work in medical diagnostics with near-term practical applications, as well as a grant from The Ark Foundation to support entrepreneurial ventures in startups. He has experience in managing cross-functional teams and a wide-ranging expertise in the Pharma/Biotech industry. His background ranges from innovative workflows for single-cell genetic analysis from liquid biopsies to medical devices and pharmaceutical process development and industrialization.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

As my career progressed, I found myself facing a need to expand my knowledge in management and decision-making. I grappled with numerous questions: How to stay innovative? How to navigate technological shifts in a highly regulated environment ? How to foster a culture of innovation ? How to choose the right technologies and deliver them to the customer? How to align our leadership with these initiatives ? Seeking answers to these questions led me to the EMBA program. I was not only drawn by EPFL's global reputation, but also by the program's meaningful content and its focus on innovation and technology. I can't wait to found the answers !

Juliana Bessa is an Immunologist with vast experience in pharma R&D. She has been exposed to various stages of drug development and currently works as Biomarker leader for oncology clinical trials at Roche. She is responsible for delivering strategies to identify drug activity as well as the right patient population to benefit from novel medicines.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

Being curious and always keen to learn, it was without hesitation that I selected the EPFL EMBA focusing on innovation management, for my professional and personal development.

Laure Clasadonte is an engineer in Agriculture, Agrobusiness and Bioresources with a specialisation in Animal Sciences and Agribusiness management. She began her career in R&D as a scientist in the field of product formulation and feed application, before taking over the lead of the laboratory and then a global position as feed technology and formulation manager. Finally, she broadened her area of expertise by focusing on the quality, production and regulatory aspects of animal nutrition projects, while at the same time putting to good use the know-how she had acquired in running laboratories and helping to develop and launch products.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

As described in its headline the EMBA of EPFL is about harnessing innovation. I was looking for a programme where finance is taken into account, but where innovation is at the heart of the agenda. I'd like to become a stronger and more effective link between two worlds whose semantic content and time horizon diverge, namely the world of finance and the world of science. Furthermore, I was hoping to apply the new learnings in my current role and the EPFL EMBA emphasises this aspect, making it a win-win exercise for both the student and the company.

Madars Matiss is a forward-thinking business professional with more than a decade of experience driving success in product management, sales, project management, operations and finance. Most recently as a Product Manager for a major Swiss financier, he combines and applies his skills, knowledge and experience from various industries simultaneously. With passion for innovation and contemporary business practices, he strives for stellar progression and growth outcomes.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

EPFL EMBA program embraces well-balanced focus on business management, innovation, technology and sustainability, which provides a perfect blend of learnings for today's world, and simultaneously aligns the creative and strategic ways of thinking, that I find vital in business as well as everyday life.

Maria Clara Riberio is a Global Program Manager at dss+, formerly DuPont Sustainable Solutions, with a proven track record in data analytics and digital transformation. Having led strategic initiatives and projects across continents, her expertise spans product management, operational risk management, and innovation. Currently pursuing an Executive MBA at EPFL, she aspires to harness technology to foster inclusivity and diversity in the industry.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

I chose EPFL's EMBA for its unparalleled focus on innovation and technology. It offers a platform to not only innovate, but also to seamlessly integrate technology with DEI. Given my role at dss+, this program resonates with my vision of leading change in a post-pandemic, ESG-driven world.

Maria Martin Civiac is a computer engineer with 10 years of international work experience in multi-cultural teams, mainly in the sports industry and in Switzerland. She has experience with programming languages, testing, project/programme management and application related projects.

She currently works at UEFA as a Product Owner. Her sports career started in London 2012 where she worked as a Deputy Venue IT Manager, followed by almost six years in the International Ski Federation as an IT Expert and three years at the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as an Olympic Results and Information Services (ORIS) Manager.

She loves volunteering and currently acts as an Event Manager for Women in Tech Switzerland and belongs to the Executive Board of the Spanish Ski Federation, in charge of digitalization and international matters.

She defines herself as pro-active, highly motivated person, willing to work hard in order to deliver efficient results-oriented projects. She is fond of skiing, sports in general, Switzerland and loves to travel and discover new places.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

Coming from an engineering background, it is a great opportunity to get deeper knowledge about business aspects. Plus the world-class reputation along with the focus on innovation and technology made it stand out from other programmes. Very much looking forward to fostering leadership skills in order to become a better leader in the future and to expand my network around Lausanne and Switzerland!

Marien Douhaizenet is Head Global Engineering Tools Development for the Sulzer’s Flow Equipment division, leading the group responsible for developing in-house software solutions that support engineering processes and address multiple business challenges. He has always worked in an international and multi-cultural environment, and got the opportunity to evolve in various roles. He is passionate about new technologies and tries to apply innovative solution to improve processes whenever possible.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

The focus on Innovation Management in the EPFL EMBA program aligns perfectly with my interests and with challenges companies face in a fast changing world. Additionally, the blend of EPFL's academic excellence and exposure to professionals from diverse backgrounds will provide me with invaluable experiences, benefiting both my career and personal development.

Marthinus Bester is a Mechanical Engineer and Project Manager with over a decade of experience in engineering design, manufacturing, project management, and consulting engineering in the mining and ship building industries.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

With its focus on technology and innovation, the EPFL EMBA program allows me to expand my business knowledge and improve my leadership skills while remaining relevant to the engineering sector. With a very diverse cohort of people from various industries and educational backgrounds, the program allows me to get out of my comfort zone and to get some some new perspective. And lastly, I will get a business education from a reputable institution and which is accredited by AMBA.

Mounsif Ghaoui is the leader of Agile & DevOps transformation at Mediterranean Shipping Company. Passionate about Lean, Agile, and new technologies, he has over 17 years of hands-on experience in building digital solutions.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

EPFL's EMBA program focuses on innovation management. In addition to the institution's reputation in Science and Technology, EPFL was my first class choice. It represents the perfect next step to enhance my skills and effectively leverage innovation.

Nadia Terranova is the Head of Advanced Data Analytics in Quantitative Pharmacology at Merck KGaA pharmaceutical company. With a strong analytical background and tracked record of publications, Nadia spearheads innovation to enable data-driven precision medicine across various therapeutic areas in drug development.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

With a focus on technology and innovation management, the EPFL EMBA is the top choice for my next development steps towards enabling strategic and cutting-edge innovation within my organization.

Nicolas Leseur is the Technical Studies Director at Vulcania Energy, a Geneva-based consultancy firm providing asset management and consulting services to private equity geo-energy investors. Nicolas holds a master’s degree in Geological Engineering from the E.N.S.G., France, and started his career in the Canadian mining industry after what, he later worked for a variety of software, technology and energy provider companies in Bahrain, India, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland and UAE.

Throughout his carrier, Nicolas held various positions such as Reservoir Geomodeler, R&D Petrophysicist or Production Geologist with a particular emphasis on how probabilistic, multi-scale and physics-driven machine-learning can lead to more precise and accurate geo-predictions. After holding the position of reservoir consulting Manager for Baker Hughes Middle East and Lead Data Scientist at AIQ, ADNOC’s AI Factory, Nicolas’ current interest lies in exploring how the recent advances in digital technologies can help lowering our carbon footprint in a world of ever-growing energy demand.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

I enrolled in the Executive MBA in Innovation Management at EPFL Lausanne because I believe it is a program like no other. While traditional MBAs often focus on finance and industry-agnostic skills, this program uniquely caters to my passion for understanding how technology shapes the daily lives of people around the world. My lifelong fascination with the intersection of technology and society has driven me to explore the dynamic landscape of innovation management. I firmly believe that innovations have the power to transform industries, create new markets, and improve the quality of life for individuals globally. Through this program, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the intricate processes involved in bringing a novel idea or technical solution to market successfully. The program's emphasis on innovation, coupled with EPFL's renowned expertise in technology, makes it the perfect choice for me.

Nicole Borel serves as the Head of Communications & Public Affairs at Bayer Switzerland. As a seasoned strategic communications professional, she brings with her long-standing experience in Corporate Communications, having worked with national and international companies, both public and private.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

The decision to enroll for this program was an easy one. The reputation, scope, and curriculum offered by the EPFL EMBA speak for themselves. I am convinced this will boost my career to a next level.

Phillip Tomé is the Senior R&D Manager of the Electronics Business Unit at ETEL S.A. He is committed to the development of state-of-the-art electronics and software for motion control in the nanometer scale for the Semiconductor/Electronics market.

Previously, he was an expert in navigation, having contributed to the R&D of many different navigation systems, ranging from Ultra-Wideband technology to the combination of satellite-based and inertial systems with application to very diverse domains (e.g., airborne, car navigation, pedestrian indoors navigation).

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

For the last 9 years I have been managing R&D teams. As experience builds up, I feel that my skillset is lagging my responsibilities to identify, encourage and support innovative activities leading to value generation in my company. Or, in simpler terms, I need to adopt a more business-oriented approach that I can only achieve with the knowledge and skills that are at the focus of this program.

Sonia Milici is Head of Marketing & Sales at Yuh, a promising Swiss neobank resulting from a joint venture between two established banks, Swissquote and PostFinance. With more than 20 years of experience in communications, she has worked on both agency and client sides in Switzerland and abroad. In particular, Sonia spent seven years living and working in Kenya and Zambia, enriching her global perspective and expertise.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

Innovation meets business`` aligns with my background (economics & finance) and tech start-up experience at Yuh. I want to lead change, and EPFL's reputation, scope, and curriculum convinced me. Excited to learn from experts and diverse peers.

Stefan Heusser, a mechatronics engineer at Sony AI, possesses a profound expertise in the development of advanced robotic systems within the domain of artificial intelligence. With a solid foundation in mechanical engineering, his career spans an array of impactful projects encompassing construction, animatronics, manufacturing, and precision optics. Stefan’s distinguishing strength lies in his adept fusion of mechanics, electronics, and software, culminating in the creation of pioneering robotic solutions. Within the Sony AI ecosystem, he remains at the forefront of cutting-edge robotics, where his work holds the promise of catalysing significant technological advancements and revolutionizing human-robot interaction across multiple industries.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

I pursued an MBA to broaden my professional horizons and gain exposure to various industries, especially to deepen my understanding of modern business practices. My consistent drive for learning led me to see this as a logical step in my career. Additionally, the MBA's focus on innovation aligns well with my passion for creative problem-solving. I believe that this advanced degree will provide me with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in today's business environment, allowing me to apply my innovation skills to tackle complex challenges and drive positive change.

Thomas Combemale is a Senior Project Manager for the design and construction of biotech manufacturing facilities at Pharmaplan. Aerospace engineer from education, he has gathered experience from highly regulated industries, such as aerospace and pharma. He has promoted innovations in different context, from robotics to digital transformation.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

Chosing EPPFL EMBA was clear: a high reputation with a program tailored for innovation management. This resonates with my desire to constantly do better things in a better way, and have a real impact.

Valerio Pece is a senior project and operating excellence manager with a global personal and professional background and over a decade of experience in various sectors and business functions. Through hands-on experience and participation in various projects, both as an SME and as a PMO, he has developed deep interdisciplinary skills over the years in the space of operations, governance, transformation and strategy of internal corporate services. His main strength is designing creative solutions that deliver efficiency and maximization of customer value.
More recently he is seeking training in the innovation and technology management space to become an expert in digitization and digitization of services.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

After analyzing the crowded MBA and EMBA market, I decided to opt for EPFL because its curriculum offers a unique blend of management and innovation-related courses that, at this stage of my career, can increase my competitive advantage in the job market. Furthermore, EPFL has an incredible reputation and network of people that I can proudly be part of.

Vasim Khan has been involved in cutting edge technology of particle accelerator physics; mainly in RF design, development and testing for physics research and medical applications involving acceleration of electrons, protons and production of X rays for cancer therapy. Out of these years the last 9 years he has been involved in RF “Design, Development and Testing” of the novel Linear Proton therapy system (LIGHT) for cancer treatment (Medical Product). This has also bridged his experience from research-oriented RF “Design and Development” to “manufacturing” a product and bringing it towards commercialisation and various challenges involved in this transformation.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

At this juncture of my technical career, I am eager to learn and explore new challenges within and beyond the technical fields that are a natural path for me to progress. The EPFL eMBA programme naturally helps me get an insight of Innovation in a technical field along with its management which is an incredibly strong platform to learn from along with participants from various fields.

Vincent Kilchoer is Head of Network and Connectivity and VP of Network Engineering at Swisscom, the Switzerland leader company for communications, IT and entertainment.

Vince is leading the development & operation from the Swisscom’s Networks, Datacenter and Cloud Connectivity. Vince is part of Swisscom since 2008 and participate to some of the biggest transversal project and transformation as lead engineer, enterprise architect, Agile Leader and currently Head of Network and Connectivity & VP of Network Engineering.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

Innovation and technology are the heart of our customer's product and journey. I choose EPFL EMBA due to its wolrd-class repution, to broaden my knowledge and meet fantastic and inspiring people.

Yasmine Kazbik is a creative innovation and engagement manager leading Digital and IT transformations. She led the implementation of innovation strategies to foster a dynamic environment open to internal and external innovation and managed new pilots internationally.

Innovation is a journey and after 14 years of experience in digital transformation, innovation, marketing and communication, she is eager to take on new challenges.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

The EPFL EMBA is unique, in its focus on innovation and technology management to fully bridge the gap between innovation and business. Being embedded in one of the world’s most innovative ecosystems, with passionate people is inspiring.

Yves Bouquet currently manages the Salesforce Revenue Practice for DACH and Nordics at Wipro. With an extensive background in Education, IT, Entrepreneurship and applied Innovation Management he is thrilled to consolidate his practical experience with the curriculum offered at the EPFL EMBA.

Why I chose EPFL EMBA?

Having extensive practical knowledge in the subjects covered by the EPFL EMBA it was the best choice to strengthen and deepen my knowledge in these fields.