On February 8, 2025, the 8th batch of SDA Bocconi’s International Executive Master in Business (IEMB) program celebrated their convocation with immense enthusiasm and pride. Representing seven industries and 22 companies, this diverse cohort included professionals ranging from Managers to Directors, Vice Presidents, and Commanders. Financial Times Executive Education Rankings 2024 placed SDA Bocconi 6th globally for custom programs and 10th globally for open programs. The IEMB program, equivalent to an Executive MBA, has consistently been a cornerstone of SDA Bocconi’s program portfolio at its Asia Center.
We were honored to have Mr. Walter Ferrara, Consul General of Italy in Mumbai, as the Chief Guest, along with distinguished faculties and dignitaries – Prof Leonardo Etro, Dean, SDA Bocconi Asia Center, Alessandro Giuliani, MD, SDA Bocconi Asia Center, Prof. Veronica Vecchi, Academic Director IEMB, and Prof. Shibani Belwalkar, Program Director IEMB.
Mr. Ferrara welcomed the graduates to SDA Bocconi’s international community, stating: “This journey has given you a unique perspective on global economic dynamics and a tangible milestone for your future. The wisdom gained, the experiences lived, and the connections made will be instrumental in your personal and professional growth.”
The ceremony also featured class representatives Shivani Shukla—a Commander in the Indian Navy managing finance and operations—and Gaurav Poddar, Head of Marketing & Product Development at TATA Chemicals Ltd. Their speeches captured the essence of the IEMB experience, with Gaurav emphasizing: “The IEMB program equips seasoned executives with the tools to lead, adapt, and drive meaningful change. As we move forward, we carry not just knowledge, but resilience, strategic acumen, and the confidence to shape the future of our organizations.”
Special recognition was given to top achievers Neha Bora, Managing Director, OLS (The Online Studio), Anirudh Rajesh Galagali, Director, Finance Information System, Evolent, Darshan Valia, Software Engineer, Aabhra and Vikram Kailthya, Regional Manager, Sales & Asset Management, Voyageur Aviation Corp. for their exceptional academic performance.
This momentous occasion marked the culmination of 15 months of dedication, hard work, and transformation. We are proud to welcome this outstanding cohort into SDA Bocconi’s global network of over 140,000 alumni.
Congratulations, IEMB Batch 8!