April 2, 2025, Shanghai –In today’s rapidly evolving business environment, the value of an MBA is frequently questioned. Rising costs, time commitments, shifting industry demands, and a changing employment environment have led some to reconsider whether the qualification remains a worthwhile investment.

In response to this ongoing question, we spoke with CEIBS Associate Professor of Marketing and MBA Programme Director Zhang Lingling, who shared her insights on the enduring value of management education, the unique strengths of CEIBS, and how Asia’s #1 ranked MBA programme is adapting to ever-evolving industry trends.

The enduring value of an MBA

Across the globe, management education is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by economic uncertainty, reduced demand for business degrees, and the rapid advancement of disruptive technologies, particularly AI. This is leading many to express concerns over the role of business education and the perceived value of an MBA in an increasingly complex and dynamic global economy.

While scepticism surrounding MBAs is understandable, Prof. Zhang argues that its value extends far beyond financial returns. “An MBA is an opportunity for transformative personal and professional growth, providing critical skills that are increasingly necessary in the modern business environment,” she explains.

Beyond technical and strategic business skills, an MBA like the one offered by CEIBS provides participants with unparalleled networking opportunities, exposure to diverse perspectives, and learning experiences with esteemed faculty and industry leaders, Prof. Zhang adds.

Beyond rankings: The true strength of an MBA

Rankings, such as the Financial Times’ Global MBA ranking, often play a crucial role in guiding prospective students when deciding on which MBA programme is right for them, but their validity itself is also sometimes questioned.

Based on data from 100 ranked business schools, the FT 2025 Global MBA Ranking was evaluated on 21 criteria including post-graduation salary and salary growth over the three years after completing the course, employment rate, career progress, value for money, and the quality of career advice and alumni network. The ranking also takes into account academic research quality, gender balance, international student and faculty representation, and sustainability efforts in teaching and operations.

Despite the various metrics measured in the international authoritative list, Prof. Zhang emphasises that these alone don’t capture all the benefits that a high-quality MBA offers.

“Many of the most valuable aspects of an MBA—such as leadership development, soft skills, and global perspectives—are not easily quantified,” she points out.

CEIBS specifically allows experiential learning and real-world business challenges take centre stage, enabling students to develop innovative solutions and apply their knowledge in practical settings, Prof. Zhang says. “This holistic approach, coupled with our strong connections to the business community, positions CEIBS graduates to excel beyond what rankings may suggest.”

Navigating a competitive job market

For decades, earning an MBA was considered a “golden ticket” to better professional roles. The degree is no longer seen as a guarantee of employment, however, as employment numbers for recent graduates have decreased. While acknowledging this challenge, Prof. Zhang highlights how CEIBS proactively prepares its graduates for success.

“At CEIBS, we guide students to focus on industries with strong demand, such as healthcare and advanced manufacturing,” she notes, adding that the programme also helps students tap into opportunities with Chinese enterprises expanding globally - an area where their international perspective and cross-cultural expertise give them a distinct advantage.

“Through tailored career services, industry partnerships, and a robust alumni base, we provide students with the tools to navigate this competitive landscape effectively. Our focus on experiential learning also ensures that graduates are not only job-ready but also poised for long-term career growth,” Prof. Zhang says.

The role of ESG & sustainability in business education

A key takeaway from this year’s FT ranking is that CEIBS saw an impressive jump of 26 places in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and net zero teaching, placing the school in the global top 20. When asked about how MBA integrates sustainability into its curriculum, Prof. Zhang pointed out that it naturally resonates with the programme’s continuous commitment to developing responsible business leaders.

“By focusing on ESG factors, we prepare future leaders to make informed and ethical business decisions that balance profitability with social responsibility, thereby contributing to the society and the environment as a whole,” Prof. Zhang says.

This focus on sustainability is not just a response to a trend, she adds, but reflects the evolving expectations of businesses and society, and the values that our students and alumni uphold as they strive to lead responsibly in an increasingly ESG-conscious world.

Leveraging the power of a strong global alumni network

With campuses in Shanghai, Beijing, and Shenzhen in China, Zurich in Switzerland, and Accra in Ghana, CEIBS boasts a dynamic and engaged global alumni network across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Their successes serve as a valuable source of guidance and inspiration for both current and future students.

“One of CEIBS’ greatest assets is our dynamic and engaged alumni network,” Prof. Zhang says, emphasising how this community extends its impact well beyond graduation. “Our alumni community not only offers mentorship and guidance but also facilitates collaboration across industries and geographies. For current and future MBA candidates, this network opens doors to exclusive job opportunities, partnerships, and insights that are crucial in today’s interconnected business world.”

This powerful global network underscores the lasting value of a CEIBS MBA, creating opportunities for career advancement, cross-border collaboration, and lifelong professional growth.

Preparing for the AI Era

In response to a rapidly evolving landscape that is being reshaped by AI, the CEIBS MBA is proactively integrating AI-focused learning into its curriculum. “We focus on equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of AI in business. This includes fostering critical thinking around the ethical implications of technology and its impact on various industries,” Prof. Zhang explains.

Beyond introducing AI-specific courses, the programme also embeds AI-related content into existing subjects such as finance, marketing, and strategy. “Our goal is to cultivate leaders who can leverage AI for greater efficiency and innovation, ensuring graduates not only prepared for current challenges, but also positioned to lead and innovate in a future where AI plays a central role in business strategy and operations,” Prof. Zhang affirms.

The key to the CEIBS MBA’s longevity

In the Financial Times’ 2025 Global Ranking of MBA programmes, CEIBS ranked #1 in Asia for the ninth consecutive year; it was also ranked #12 globally. What accounts for this sustained success amidst an environment which, we have now established, is difficult for MBA programmes around the world? According to Prof. Zhang, several key factors have contributed

Academic Excellence: A rigorous curriculum and esteemed faculty ensure that students receive a world-class education.

International Perspective: With five campuses across three continents, CEIBS enjoys competitive geographical advantages which allows it to provide students with unique insights into the dynamics of Asian and global markets.

Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship equips students with the skills to navigate and thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.

Strong Career Support: CEIBS offers comprehensive career support, including one-on-one coaching, mentorship programmes, and industry connections that help students navigate today’s competitive job market.

Extensive Alumni Network: With over 32,000 alumni across over 90 countries and regions in the world, CEIBS fosters lifelong connections that provide mentorship, career opportunities, and global networking.

“These attributes not only enhance students’ educational experience, but also significantly contribute to the value our graduates bring to their respective industries,” Prof. Zhang suggests.

The lasting impact of a CEIBS MBA

As industries evolve and new challenges emerge, the nature of management education, along with its perceived value, will inevitably change. Prof. Zhang, however, remains convinced that the value an MBA remains undeniable for those seeking transformative career growth.

Guided by its unique positioning of “China Depth, Global Breadth”, CEIBS intends to stay ahead of the curve through its commitment to experiential learning and strong industry and alumni connections, ensuring that its MBA remains a compelling and rewarding investment for all of its participants.

Prof. Zhang sees the CEIBS MBA as more than a programme for aspiring executives and managers, but as a transformational journey aimed at shaping global visionary leaders, a gateway to new opportunities, a catalyst for career growth, and a foundation for lifelong success in the global business landscape.

March 31, 2025. Shanghai – CEIBS officially welcomed Professor of Economics, Santander Chair in Economics and current Associate Dean and Director of EMBA Programme Zhu Tian as new Vice President and Co-Dean of the school with a five-year tenure during a special handover ceremony on March 28.

Effective from April 1, 2025, Prof. Zhu will take over from Professor of Strategy Zhang Weijiong, who steps down after over two decades of service to CEIBS. 

Prof. Zhu Tian joined CEIBS in 2005 as Professor of Economics and served as Chair of the Department of Economics and Decision Sciences from 2011 to 2016, after working at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology for a decade. He is an expert on the Chinese economy and the author of Catching Up to America: Culture, Institutions, and the Rise of China.

The event was attended by school leaders, faculty and staff, as well as representatives from CEIBS’ executive partners the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) and Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Speaking at the event, Shanghai Jiao Tong University President and CEIBS Chairman Ding Kuiling noted that over the past 31 years, CEIBS has grown into a top-tier business school in both Asia and the world through the joint efforts of Shanghai Jiao Tong University and EFMD.

Prof. Zhang, who joined CEIBS in 1997, has played an indispensable role in the school’s development, serving as the founding EMBA Programme Director, Associate Dean, and Vice President and Co-Dean. His contributions to curriculum development, faculty recruitment, and academic operations have been invaluable, Prof. Ding added.

Prof. Zhu, on the other hand, with his strong academic background and exceptional leadership, has made significant contributions to enhancing the quality of the EMBA programme and strengthening the school’s research capabilities.

Looking ahead, Prof. Ding expressed hope that CEIBS will continue to build on its momentum by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with human intelligence (HI) to enhance management education. He emphasised the importance of fostering a learning environment where knowledge and character grow hand in hand, efficiency is balanced with a human touch, and technological advancements are guided by wisdom. He encouraged CEIBS to remain at the forefront of innovation in management education, shaping future leaders who are prepared to take on the challenges of their time. By doing so, CEIBS will play a key role in strengthening China-Europe strategic cooperation and contributing to a more interconnected global future.

Speaking on behalf of CEIBS’ European Board members, EFMD Global VP Helke Carvalho Hernandes expressed deep admiration for Prof. Zhang’s contributions to CEIBS over nearly two decades. She highlighted his strategic vision, adaptability to change, and pivotal role in shaping CEIBS into a globally recognised institution.

“Your professional depth is nothing short of commendable. From building a world-class faculty to shaping a leading programme, both in China and internationally your impact has been both profound and lasting,” Ms. Hernandes said, adding that Prof. Zhang’s financial discipline has laid a strong foundation for the school’s long-term success.

In her remarks, CEIBS President Wang Hong praised Prof. Zhang for his immense contributions to CEIBS since its early days. With an entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination, he played a key role in expanding the school’s global footprint and raising its profile, she said.

Over the past 20 years, Prof. Zhang has been an “indispensable steward” of CEIBS, dedicating himself to building a world-class platform for management education. His vision, innovation, and tireless commitment have been instrumental in shaping the school’s success, President Wang noted.

She also recognised Prof. Zhu for his strong academic background and impactful research. Since becoming EMBA Programme Director in 2017, he has led the programme to steady growth and kept it at the forefront of China’s executive education landscape, she noted.

Looking ahead, CEIBS’ new leadership team will continue to drive the school forward, with a focus on deepening its Eight Strategic Priorities and embracing AI-powered innovation, President Wang continued. By accelerating internationalisation, digital transformation, and sustainability, CEIBS aims to strengthen economic and cultural ties between China, Europe, and beyond, while expanding its impact on the global stage of management education.

CEIBS President (European) Dominique Turpin then highlighted that this is a historic moment for CEIBS, as the Vice President and Co-Dean role is being passed from an individual who has had an immeasurable impact on the school’s very DNA to a successor whose talent and intellect inspire confidence in his ability to excel in his new role.

Hailing Prof. Zhang as a pioneer in Chinese management education, and his transformative contributions to CEIBS, President Turpin acknowledged Prof. Zhang’s legacy in faculty recruitment, programme innovation, and overall institutional growth.

Looking forward, President Turpin expressed his confidence in Prof. Zhu, highlighting his academic credentials, leadership experience, expertise in China’s economy, and deep understanding of CEIBS’ mission as a bridge between China, Europe, and the world.

“His ability to decode China’s economic development for both Chinese and international audiences speak to his incredible intellect and his gifts as a communicator. Even more, they epitomize what CEIBS is – a bridge between China, Europe, and the rest of the world that makes each side more understandable to the other,” President Turpin stated. “We look forward with great anticipation to your success and guiding our school to a new chapter.”

CEIBS Vice President and Dean Frank Bournois then paid a special attribute to the outgoing Vice President and Co-Dean by summarising his contributions with the eight letters of his name “Weijiong” - each representing a defining quality of his leadership: W for “wisdom”; E for “experience”; I for "initiative"; J for “judgement”; I for “innovation”; O for “outreach”; N for “nurturing”, and G for “global perspective”.

“Taking initiative is one thing, but having innovation as a constant, steadfast approach to driving the school forward is another,” he said.

In welcoming Prof. Zhu, Prof. Bournois highlighted his deep expertise in economics and his global academic background. “I'm so happy to see this moment of transition between the two Co-Deans, and feel immensely fortunate to be surrounded by two trusted colleagues and friends who share a deep passion for our school,” he concluded.

Prof. Zhang, in his farewell address, reflected on his journey with CEIBS and expressed gratitude for the support he had received throughout his tenure. He pointed out that the most fulfilling aspect of his life has been the opportunity to work, strive, and grow alongside a group of ambitious, idealistic, and wise individuals. “I feel an immense sense of joy seeing CEIBS’ success today.”

While acknowledging increasingly fierce competition in management education and the ongoing transformation driven by AI, Prof. Zhang expressed his commitment to continuing to contribute, striving to help CEIBS to become a respected international business school in the world.

Prof. Zhu, in his inaugural speech as Vice President and Co-Dean, acknowledged Prof. Zhang’s immense contributions to the development of CEIBS, especially his dedication, hard work, kindness, and leadership. In the face of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, which present new challenges to teaching, research and course operations, Prof. Zhu vowed to work with the school’s leadership and contribute to the achievement of CEIBS’ "15th Five-Year Plan" and secure another 30 years of excellence.

Speaking on behalf of CEIBS faculty, Professor of Accounting and Associate Dean (Case Centre) Chen Shimin highlighted Prof. Zhang’s indelible contribution to CEIBS through his passion for work, international perspective, and unwavering commitment to the school's interests when leading the EMBA programme. He also praised Prof. Zhu for his serious and meticulous approach, describing him as an academic leader with a practical, classically Chinese mindset. Looking ahead, Prof. Chen expressed confidence in the new leadership team, and looked forward to their collaborative efforts in leading CEIBS to a brighter era.

Speaking on behalf of CEIBS staff, President’s Assistant and Director of Dean’s Office Xu Huijuan reflected on her 24 years of working with Prof. Zhang, highlighting his visionary leadership and meticulous attention to detail. She also expressed confidence that Prof. Zhu, with his global perspective and local insights, will bring new momentum to CEIBS’ academic pursuits

The ceremony concluded with a series of gift presentations to Prof. Zhang for his decades of service, and warm congratulations to Prof. Zhu on his new appointment. This leadership transition marks an important milestone in CEIBS' ongoing commitment to excellence in international management education.

In her closing remarks, President Wang Hong stated that the new Management Committee would follow the Board's guidance in line with the school’s motto of ‘Conscientiousness, Innovation and Excellence’ to drive innovative development and promote economic and cultural exchanges between China, Europe, and the rest of the world, with the aim of making CEIBS one of the most respected business schools in the world.

Co-founded by the Chinese government and European Union (EU) in 1994, CEIBS has campuses in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Accra in Ghana, and Zurich in Switzerland. CEIBS is committed to educating responsible leaders versed in ‘China Depth, Global Breadth’ and serves as an important platform for exchange and co-operation between China, Europe and the world.

On 29th March 2025, around 80 Global EMBA students arrived at CEIBS Shanghai campus to meet for the final time as students. Ready to ‘turn the tassel’, they came as students but left as graduates and fully fledged alumni of the wider GEMBA family.

After the initial flurry of group photos, GEMBA 2022 settled into CEIBS’ Petrochemical Auditorium, welcomed by Associate Dean and GEMBA Programme Director, Professor Bala Ramasamy.

“I am honoured to welcome all GEMBA graduates, their families and guests to the 2025 CEIBS Global Executive MBA Graduation Ceremony. Today we have 80 graduates representing 18 different countries and regions to join us today,” said the professor.

“Their graduation coincides with the year that China and the EU mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. They celebrate this historic milestone amidst a rapidly changing global landscape and a complex international climate in terms of business, trade and geopolitics. So, this year’s graduation is indeed special.”

Finding shared solutions to collective problems – Leadership Speeches

First to speak among the leadership figures present was CEIBS President (China), Professor Wang Hong. The professor praised the cohort not just for their performance in the classroom during the past two years, but also for consistently embodying the philosophy of combining what is good for their organisation with what is good for the world.

“Your achievements extend beyond academics,” she said. “You have traversed 13 countries, championed social causes, and given back to the school and society at large. From fundraising for earthquake relief efforts in Turkey, to organising charity initiatives for underprivileged children, and helping to eliminate plastic waste on campus, you launched a total of 15 impactful ESG-based projects. Your dedication to the higher ideals of responsible leadership makes us proud.”

CEIBS President Wang Hong

Professor Wang left the graduating cohort with a request, asking that they take the next step in their careers with the following four thoughts uppermost in their minds.

1 Retain an open, international mindset in a time of increasing global uncertainty.

2 Be a lifelong learner, as the rapid advancement of AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and renewable energy reshapes whole industries.

3 Pursue purpose over profit, by contributing to CEIBS’ ongoing efforts in AI research, ESG studies, scholarships, and business case development.

4 Remember that CEIBS will always be a home for its students and alumni – a network that now extends to over 32,000 people worldwide.

CEIBS European President Dominique Turpin followed this address with a speech of his own, reinforcing the message that international understanding and cooperation is needed now more than ever.

CEIBS President (European) Dominique Turpin

“The great American journalist Thomas Friedman once said that ‘Thanks to globalisation, we all definitely know OF one another more than ever; but we still don’t know much ABOUT each other’. This is still true today. This is a cause for concern, but I believe that it is people like you, globally minded business leaders, who can fix the problem. As the business leaders of the future, it is vital that you maintain the global spirit that you have demonstrated by completing your Global EMBA,” said Professor Turpin.

Personal and Professional Growth – Faculty Speech

Representing the CEIBS Faculty, Professor Shimin Chen congratulated GEMBA 2022 for not only absorbing the lessons of their two-year learning journey, but also for rigorously applying them in their respective organisations.

Professor Chen left the cohort with some parting advice – in an increasingly uncertain world, it is essential to remember that the fundamental “language of business” can always be relied upon to help find the right course of action.

Professor of Accounting, Zhu Xiaoming Chair in Accounting, Associate Dean (Case Centre)

“While you may forget many of the details of individual courses you took here, you must always remember the three crucial metrics that fundamentally capture any sound business: ROE, cash flows, and growth. These financial metrics are not just numbers; they are the language of business, the tools that will guide your strategic thinking and informed decisions and ensure sustainable growth for many years to come.”

Emerging as better leaders – Graduate Speeches

Following the traditional format of the graduation ceremony, GEMBA 2022 members Peiyi Han and Jose Alvares were chosen to represent the cohort, each giving a fond farewell address to their friends and classmates.

Speaking first, Peiyi thanked her professors and peers for giving her a renewed sense of purpose, propelling her career in new and exciting directions. Her advice to her fellow graduates was to always remember the fundamental importance of humility in leadership.

Graduates Representative Peiyi Han

“No matter our background, our personality, or our leadership style, we have all learned how to listen. The higher we climb as leaders, the more dissenting voices we will face. Only by encouraging meaningful conversations can we resolve our differences.”

Jose followed with a loving testimonial of how his GEMBA experience had opened his eyes to the many benefits of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, and finding likeminded friends to share the journey.

Graduates Representative Jose Alvares

“I came to CEIBS because I wanted to do something different with my career, perhaps even with my life. Amid all the uncertainty, I have discovered an undeniable truth: I neither dialogue nor walk alone in the dark, for there is light in each one of you. Great leaders don’t create followers; they create more leaders.”

A Moment of Recognition – Awards & Class Donation

While every GEMBA cohort is made up of the brightest and most dynamic business minds drawn from a wide range of globally prominent companies, there are exceptional figures even within such an elite gathering. This was their rightful opportunity to be recognised and celebrated for their outstanding achievements during the already challenging conditions of their two-year academic programme.

Prior to the conferment of degrees, the CEIBS senior leadership figures collectively presented GEMBA 2022 class members with the following awards.

Outstanding Graduate Award 2025

This year’s recipients were：Leo Chen, Iryna Huryn, Marco Kiefer, Jun Yi, Simon Zhang

Outstanding Graduate Award 2025

Academic Excellence Award 2025 - Marco Kiefer

Academic Excellence Award 2025

Maple Recognition 2025

Then it was time for the GEMBA 2022 Class to make a conferment of their own. Each year it is customary for the graduating class to make their mark on the CEIBS in the form of a donation that tangibly improves the Shanghai campus. Previous cohorts have donated benches, plaques, and all manner of furnishings with sufficient durability to be a lasting gift to the school.

Maple Recognition 2025

Then it was time for the GEMBA 2022 Class to make a conferment of their own. Each year it is customary for the graduating class to make their mark on the CEIBS in the form of a donation that tangibly improves the Shanghai campus. Previous cohorts have donated benches, plaques, and all manner of furnishings with sufficient durability to be a lasting gift to the school.

GEMBA 2022 made two donations. The first was the entire refurbishment of the campus accommodation reception area, complete with a brand-new desk that was designed and manufactured by classmates James Lew and Jonas Kohns. The second was a new window panel complete with a class commemorative plaque.

Class Donation Announcement

Applicant, to student, to graduate – GEMBA 2022 become alumni

Before the degree conferment, the CEIBS Alumni Choir took to the stage to perform three songs in celebration of GEMBA 2022’s graduation. They were joined by several members of the cohort.

A moment two years in the making, the class of GEMBA 2022 were invited onto the stage to receive their degree from Vice President and Dean Professor Frank Bournois and Associate Dean (Europe) Professor Katherine XIN.

Symbolising the culmination of their lifechanging journey, and the exact moment of change from student to graduate, the cohort then ‘turned the tassel’ on their mortar boards, formally completing their GEMBA studies at CEIBS.

To close the ceremony, Professor Ramasamy delivered some final words of heartfelt congratulations to the newly minted CEIBS GEMBA alumni.

“Yet this moment is not an epilogue. The bonds you've built here will illuminate paths through professional wildernesses. Tomorrow's challenges await not just your expertise, but the unique alchemy of resilience and collaboration you've perfected. You and only you will write your future because, to quote the poem called Invictus by William Ernest Henly, you are the master of your fate, you are the captain of your soul.”

Having fulfilled all the requirements of the school, Professor Ramasamy then officially declared that they were now graduates of CEIBS.

We wish every member of the GEMBA 2022 class the very best of luck in the next chapter of their lives and careers. Remember you are always welcome at CEIBS. Please consider us your second home, and always keep us informed about your future plans and achievements.

Congratulations, GEMBA 2022!