International community
LBS boasts one of the most diverse student bodies among business schools worldwide, especially in its Executive MBA program. Students come not only from many different nationalities and cultures, but also from diverse professional sectors and stages of their career. Even the small class size of 45 Executive MBA students manages to pack 28 different nationalities in 2024. This cultural mix fosters an inclusive and international community. Respect for diversity is important within the organizational culture at LBS, empowering students to exchange perspectives and learn from one another’s experiences.
Next to the student demographics, this internationalism is also evident in the program’s curriculum and teaching approach. Professors at LBS encourage students to think globally and act locally, which aligns with the global aspirations of EMBA participants.
Collaborative communication and open dialogue
Communication at London Business School emphasizes openness and collaboration, where each student’s opinion is valued, regardless of their background. Professors foster an open-dialogue culture, encouraging students to share real-world insights and challenge one another respectfully. This is particularly important for EMBA students, who are typically experienced professionals with unique industry knowledge. Omar Abuhanoud, LBS EMBA alumnus, Class of 2023, recently shared in a blog post: “I valued the face-to-face interactions with professors and classmates and the opportunity to engage in in-depth discussions and debates that challenged my thinking and broadened my understanding of complex business issues.”
The school frequently organizes group activities and team projects, pushing students to collaborate, communicate effectively, and solve complex problems together.
Flexible dress code
If you’re an aspiring Executive MBA student, know that the dress code at LBS depends largely on the specific context or occasion. For example, students usually go for smart attire during their class sessions and networking events. At the same time, it is important to feel comfortable during informal meetups and study groups, so these are good opportunities to dress more casually.
Having a polished appearance can go a long way when fitting in the business environment at LBS, but balancing between professionalism and comfort is just as vital.
Networking as a core value
Since communication and collaboration form such integral parts of the culture at LBS, it is only natural that the UK school also excels at facilitating networking opportunities. London Business School actively promotes networking through regular events for its current students and alumni. Considering its location in London – a leading business and finance hub, LBS can easily connect students with the city’s business community, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs.
“I took advantage of the networking opportunities at the school, and my first client was a friend from the program,” highlights Bill Webb, who graduated from the LBS Executive MBA in 2021. “We all knew each other really well within a month or two of starting the program. I met so many people […] who had already launched a business, and that gave me a lot of confidence; I thought, ‘why not me?’”
Respect for work-life balance
Any MBA program is demanding and time-consuming by design, and the international Executive MBA at LBS is no exception. Most EMBA participants have to juggle professional responsibilities, family, and academic commitments. Recognizing this, London Business School aims to offer flexible scheduling options and support systems to help students manage their busy lives.
While EMBA students like Sherif Khalifa, LBS EMBA alumnus, Class of 2024, feel supported by the school’s part-time study options and flexible class schedules, they also have to create routines that work for them.
“I am based in Zurich and commute to London for our EMBA class at the weekend – every two weeks,” Sherif Khalifa shares. “We’re just wrapping up our first term and I couldn’t help but reflect on how demanding the last four months have been and how much we have accomplished. If you’re truly passionate about pursuing an EMBA program despite your already busy schedule, the balance can be achieved.”
Ethical leadership and social responsibility
Another key pillar of LBS’s organizational culture has to do with ethical leadership and social responsibility. The school makes sure to cover topics like sustainability, ethics in business, and corporate social responsibility in its EMBA curriculum. Having these important perspectives, students can develop the leadership qualities needed to contribute to a better society.
The Social Impact Club at LBS is just one example of the various initiatives available to students interested in making an impact beyond profit generation. The club focuses on four main areas: impact investing, sustainability, social entrepreneurship, and foundations/non-profit initiatives. It hosts events, networking opportunities, and even has its own Social Impact Conference.
From its collaborative communication style to the flexible yet professional atmosphere, the culture at London Business School fosters global thinking and meaningful connections. For prospective students – whether MBA or Executive MBA, understanding this unique environment can be a critical factor in choosing LBS as the next step in their careers.
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