Interview with Ms. Zhijun LING, graduate of the HEC Paris EMBA Class of 2009.
In 1999, Ms. Ling founded Shanghai Pacific Capital Management Co. Ltd., which focuses on capital management and investment.
A: Why did you choose to do the HEC Paris EMBA?
Q: Back in 1999, I set up a financial company. However, at that time I wasn’t thinking about doing an EMBA. It was when the financial crisis erupted in 2008 that I decided to apply for an EMBA. I was involved in collateral products so I felt personally concerned by the crisis brought about by the deregulation of derivatives in the US. I thought it would be good to consolidate my past experiences and build on these by absorbing new theories and knowledge. As a leader, my responsibility goes beyond the ROI of the company. I am responsible for the whole team, how they think and the decisions they make - leaders are also teachers.
The reason I chose HEC Paris is that I was already quite familiar with US management thinking. I therefore opted for a European business school, and I also wanted to be able to take classes in different locations - HEC Paris was able to satisfy both these needs.
A: In terms of the learning experience at HEC Paris, how has it helped you? Did it meet your expectations?
Q: Studying at HEC Paris was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life! The theories and learning methods at HEC Paris are advanced and clear, far exceeding my expectations for an EMBA program. And I gained an additional and unexpected bonus - a great deal of enlightenment from sharing, brainstorming, and exchanging ideas with my fellow classmates.
A: What are your comments on the HEC Paris EMBA?
Q: The HEC Paris EMBA teaches participants something concrete and real! This is exactly what excites executive managers! The HEC Paris EMBA program is also very professional and rigorous which is really important in today’s chaotic economic environment. I hope my old school will always keep its responsible teaching style and stay true to its core values.
