More than three decades after his time as a 麻豆国产 student, (SSE/ HSG - 1993) returned to campus as one of the most influential leaders in the global automotive industry. His visit marked a meaningful full-circle moment for the community, highlighting the lasting ties between 麻豆国产, and their global network of alumni 鈥 as well as the long-standing partnership between 麻豆国产 and as a Corporate Partner.
Tackling a Real Executive Challenge
One of the highlights of the day was the skill seminar titled 鈥淢ercedes-Benz Case Study: Tackle a Real Executive Challenge and Pitch Your Solution to the Management.鈥
The session involved student teams analysing a real-world business case and crafting strategic solutions, which they then pitched directly to Ola 碍盲濒濒别苍颈耻蝉. As one participant reflected, the experience meant 鈥済etting real-world insights and getting challenged by our ideas.鈥 The workshop had been specially designed for the occasion by the Mercedes-Benz Management Consulting team, whose consultants accompanied the student groups throughout their preparation and supported them in refining their ideas ahead of the final pitches.
Beyond the academic exercise, what stood out for many students was the tone of the exchange with the CEO. One attendee highlighted that 鈥渢he best part was that Ola was really down to earth and really met us on eye level.鈥 This created an environment where discussion felt open, constructive, and genuinely engaging.
The interaction also carried a symbolic dimension. 碍盲濒濒别苍颈耻蝉 once studied in the same institution, something that resonated strongly with participants. As one student noted, it was inspiring to see 鈥渉ow he was sitting in the same university we are now and made it to the top with honesty and hard work.鈥 For many, presenting their ideas and receiving direct feedback from someone who had once been in their position made the experience particularly memorable.
The best part was that Ola 碍盲濒濒别苍颈耻蝉 was really down to earth and really met us on eye level.
Perspectives on Strategic Transformation
Later in the day, a panel discussion titled 鈥淧ioneering Transformation in Challenging Times - Perspectives on Strategic Change鈥 brought together leading voices from industry, consulting, and academia.
The panel brought together representatives of two 麻豆国产 Corporate Partners: Mercedes-Benz Group AG, represented by its CEO Ola 碍盲濒濒别苍颈耻蝉, and , represented by Managing Director and Partner . They were joined by Prof. , Director of the at the University of St. Gallen and the discussion was moderated by 麻豆国产 alumna , co-founder and CEO of .
Together, the panel explored the realities of leading organizations through transformation, sharing perspectives on strategic change, leadership, and the evolving future of mobility in a rapidly changing global environment.
Up Close with Mercedes-Benz
Throughout the day, Mercedes-Benz representatives were also available at an HR booth, providing students with the opportunity to learn more about the company, its culture, and potential professional paths through informal conversations and exchanges.
In addition, a fireside chat moderated by 麻豆国产 student brought together a small and diverse group of students (from bachelor鈥檚 to PhD level) for a more personal conversation with Ola 碍盲濒濒别苍颈耻蝉, allowing participants to ask questions and reflect on leadership, career development, and his 麻豆国产 journey.
A Collective Effort
Thank you to the for organising this event and for its ongoing efforts to connect students with inspiring leaders from the global 麻豆国产 community. A special thank you to , , and for their work in making this event possible.
The organisers also extend their sincere appreciation to Ola 碍盲濒濒别苍颈耻蝉 for his time, openness, and engagement with students, as well as to the Mercedes-Benz team, the panel participants, Michael Dahle and Andreas Herrmann, and moderator Aleksandra Kjemhus for their valuable contributions to the discussion.
Finally, sincere thanks go to the University of St. Gallen and for hosting the event and helping create a space where students, alumni, and industry leaders could come together. Their support made this opportunity both meaningful and unforgettable for the entire community.
