Global MBA: Sustainability and Innovation – Interview with Ricardo Andrés Salinas Peredo
30 October 2024Can you tell us how the Global MBA – Sustainability and Innovation at BBS has shaped your professional development in general and whether it has also influenced your current role in particular?
The Global MBA – Sustainability and Innovation at Bologna Business School has been instrumental in shaping my professional journey. The program equipped me with the essential tools to navigate and lead in our increasingly globalized world. Collaborating with colleagues from over 20 different nationalities enriched my cultural understanding and enhanced my ability to work effectively within multinational teams. This experience directly translates to my current role, where I interact with diverse teams across various departments for a multinational.
Moreover, the program’s strong focus on sustainability provided me with highly sought-after skills in today’s market. This specialization set me apart from candidates with a traditional MBA, offering a distinct advantage in the job market. The in-depth knowledge and competencies I gained were pivotal in securing my position in Product Sustainability department, where I apply sustainable practices to drive innovation and efficiency within the organization.
During the Master you had the opportunity to participate in several projects and initiatives. Which ones have particularly impressed you or that you feel have contributed significantly to your professional development?
One of the most impactful experiences during the MBA was the final project, which involved working directly with a company. This hands-on opportunity was crucial for understanding the different working realities between my home country, Chile, and Italy. Aiming to transition my career to Italy, this project provided invaluable insights into the Italian business culture and practices. The feedback and guidance from professors were instrumental in helping me adapt and prepare for this new professional environment. This immersive experience not only enhanced my practical skills but also significantly contributed to my confidence and readiness to take the next step in my career.
How do you think the area in which you operate is evolving, and what do you think will be the key skills to successfully manage future changes?
The field of product sustainability is rapidly evolving due to a combination of stricter regulations and a growing market demand for environmentally friendly products. Governments and international bodies are implementing more stringent environmental policies, requiring companies to adhere to higher standards in emissions reduction, resource efficiency, and waste management. These evolving regulations mean that sustainability is no longer optional but a critical compliance issue for businesses worldwide.
At the same time, consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of the products they purchase. There’s a significant market demand for sustainable products, pushing companies to innovate and incorporate eco-friendly practices throughout their product life cycles. This shift not only affects product development but also influences branding, marketing, and overall corporate strategy.
Successfully navigating this complex landscape requires the ability to work with multidisciplinary teams. Collaborating with technical teams in R&D and operations is essential for improving product sustainability. Additionally, developing cycling plans for products involves working closely with after-sales teams to incorporate their perspectives. Understanding and aligning with governance policies necessitates collaboration with legal, compliance, and HR departments to ensure our sustainability strategies are effectively integrated throughout the organization. The key skills for managing future changes will include cross-functional collaboration, adaptability, and a comprehensive understanding of sustainability principles across all facets of the business.
What advice would you give to those considering enrolling in the Global MBA – Sustainability and Innovation in BBS?
If you’re looking to advance your career and already have work experience, I highly recommend the Global MBA – Sustainability and Innovation at Bologna Business School. This program offers a comprehensive foundation in sustainable business practices within an MBA framework, providing strategic and managerial skills that set you apart in a competitive job market that is demanding more consciousness regarding to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) topics, not only to work directly in sustainability departments but also to have more awareness to this trend topic. Unlike a traditional sustainability master’s, this MBA allows you to leverage your professional experience while gaining insights into global business dynamics.
One of the standout features of this program is the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of colleagues from around the world. The shared experiences and perspectives you gain from your peers are invaluable and often not found in regular Master’s programs. This global network enriches your learning and prepares you for working in multinational environments, enhancing your ability to navigate different cultural and professional landscapes.
Additionally, if you are considering moving to Italy for your career, learning Italian is highly beneficial. While the program is conducted in English, proficiency in Italian will greatly enhance your integration into the local culture and expand your professional opportunities within the Italian job market.
