International Immersion
Learning from International Experiences is an integral part of EPGP. Term three of the EPGP curriculum is devoted to the International Immersion module which is designed to give students an opportunity to broaden learning and deepen knowledge about an increasingly globalized economic environment. Structured around a visit to an emerging economy or a developed economy, the module provides insights into the country’s economic, social, political, and cultural life.
International Immersion 2024
At IIMB, building strong connections with the world’s leading business schools is a priority to ensure that students emerge as global leaders, ready to make an impact on the international stage. The EPGP cohort embarked on a transformative journey as part of the International Immersion experience, with a curriculum designed to broaden their understanding of economic, political, social, and cultural dynamics through a global lens.
The first batch of EPGP students traveled to the Berlin and Madrid campuses of ESCP Business School. The second batch headed to Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management and the third batch embarked on their immersion to WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management in Germany.
Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management
The second batch headed to Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management for their International Immersion. Students were particularly excited about the opportunity to interact with mission-driven business and government leaders, explore local plants and corporate offices, and delve into the intricacies of global business. Professors Shankar Venkatagiri from the Information Systems area and Debolina Dutta from the OB HRM area accompanied this group.
During the first two days in Brussels, the EPGP students explored the city's charm and pleasant weather while also immersing themselves in the academic experience. Day one began with an introduction followed by a session on the Principles of Business Strategy led by Mr. Bruno Wattenbergh, Programme Co-Director. The day continued with a visit to the European Commission, where students attended sessions conducted by experts including Mr. Borja Alcaraz Riaño from the Directorate-General for Competition – Enforcement and Monitoring, Mr. Jan Papsch from the Directorate-General for Competition – State Aid, and Mr. Oluf Nielsen from the Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content, and Technology. The day ended with a Welcome Dinner at La Mirabelle, where the group savored local delicacies in the company of the professors.
WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management
The third batch of EPGP students embarked on their immersion to WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management in Germany. Over the course of two weeks, they delved into global business perspectives, leveraging growing networks and exploring cutting-edge technologies. The group was accompanied by Prof. Amar Sapra, Production & Operations Management area and Prof. M Jayadev, Finance & Accounting area.
The first two days at WHU kicked off with a deep dive into Germany’s competitive markets, led by Prof. Weigand, where students gained valuable insights into the country's business landscape. Networking with peers from other top business schools further expanded their global perspective. The immersion continued with a field visit to Viega, where students were guided by Marius and Stefan through the company's operations, with a focus on plumbing and HVAC products. They engaged in hands-on demonstrations and explored augmented reality applications at Viega’s Experience Centre, gaining practical knowledge of modern building infrastructure.
Week 1 consisted of an engaging session on family business leadership—global impact of family firms and unforeseen challenges of succession planning led by Prof. Nadine Kammerlander; a visit to Rhenus Lub, a fourth-generation family business with over 140 years of history, guided by Managing Director Johannes Samwer, followed by an exploration of Burg Castle in Solingen organized by WHU.
Throughout these experiences, the EPGP cohort has gained fresh perspectives on diversity, cultural differences, and the broader landscape of global business dynamics, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming global business leaders.
ESCP Business School: Berlin and Madrid
The first batch of EPGP students traveled to the Berlin and Madrid campuses of ESCP Business School. Over two weeks, they engaged in lectures, field visits, and cultural experiences, gaining valuable insights into these vibrant business capitals. Accompanying them was IIMB faculty Prof. Abhoy Ojha from the OB HRM area.
Over the first three days, students delved into Germany’s post-WWII business landscape with an enthralling session led by Prof. Georg Stadtmann. A guided tour of Berlin added a rich layer of cultural and historical context to their learning. On Day 2, Dr. Stefan Schmid guided the students through Germany’s Mittelstand, unpacking the impact of SMEs and family-run businesses. Digital transformation, talent development, and strategic global partnerships were the focus—revealing why companies like such are the backbone of the German economy. On Day 3, the cohort had an engaging session on scaling startups, market strategies and customer segmentation with Prof. Martin Wrobel.
From engaging lectures on macroeconomics and digital transformation to hands-on visits to MotionLab.Berlin, led by Fridtjof Gustavs, the cohort gained invaluable insights that will influence their global business perspectives and future impact.
The first week was enriched with explorations of Berlin’s startup ecosystem through Berlin Partner für Wirtschaft und Technologie GmbH and an in-depth look at innovative technologies such as Scansonic MI GmbH’s laser welding at Berlin Industrial Group.
Key highlights included sessions on the transformative potential of AI and IoT in the German market, a discussion on the future of autonomous driving by Prof. Dr. Alexander Eck, and visits to EUREF-Campus Berlin and Wurth Elektronik.
Special thanks are extended to Dr. Marcus Schmalbach, Dr. Martin Wrobel, Dr. Stefan Schmid, and Dr. Georg Stradtmann for their expert guidance, and to the hosts at Berlin Industrial Group, EUREF-Campus Berlin, and MotionLab.Berlin for their warm hospitality and valuable insights.
Final Phase of EPGP International Immersion Unfolds at ESCP Business School Madrid
The last leg of the International Immersion brought IIM Bangalore’s Executive Post Graduate Programme students to ESCP Business School Madrid, closing out their global adventure with fresh perspectives.
The program kicked off with Prof. Fernando Moroy’s comprehensive overview of the Spanish and European economies, unveiling the geopolitical forces that shape businesses in Spain and Latin America. The session laid a strong foundation for understanding regional business opportunities, marking a strong start to a week of insightful learning.
Day 2 saw Francisco Hernández dissect the business model of Real Madrid C.F., showcasing how its sustainable strategies have fueled its commercial success. A visit to the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium provided insight into its historical legacy and bold plans to transform the venue into a global event hub. This was followed by Jorge Treceño’s take on Spain’s sustainable tourism shift. Students learned how strategic management and sustainability are vital for driving long-term growth in sports and tourism—two key industries in Spain’s economy.
On Day 3, Prof. Miguel Palacios provided cutting-edge insights into corporate innovation, focusing on advancements like AI and CRISPR. This was followed by José María de Juan later discussing sustainable destination management and the evolving landscape of sustainable tourism.
Fintech took center stage on Day 4, as Prof. Fernando Oliveros tackled energy project finance and valuation, and Emilio Mora shared how ERP and cloud tech are increasing value creation across industries with a special focus on tourism and hospitality.
The final day featured a memorable diploma ceremony, honored by the presence of Shri Dinesh Patnaik, Indian Ambassador to Spain. His inspiring words left a lasting impression: “India has a population of 750 million people under the age of 25, with a median age of 28. Nearly every fourth youngster is Indian. As an MBA student, it is vital for you to focus on creating jobs.” The powerful message was a fitting close to a 2-week immersion that redefined global perspectives.