What does it take to build an impactful, purposeful career in today’s world? Mastering high-demand areas, such as AI and emotional intelligence (EQ), is certainly a key aspect. Developing a strategic mindset is also crucial. Yet, for any modern MBA candidate, having a robust support system from the start is essential.
That’s where career support comes in. It acts as the vital bridge between earning a degree and landing that dream role. And few do career support better than Nyenrode Business University in the Netherlands.
“What makes Nyenrode unique is a combination of personal attention and a strong external focus,” says Martijn Akkerman, the school’s Career and Personal Development Advisor. “We are a relatively small university institution, and that allows us to truly get to know our students and provide tailored support. At the same time, we’re deeply connected to the corporate world.” (03:00) As a university founded by a consortium of international companies, the industry and alumni connections run deep.
This strong professional network and personalized support enables students to get the best out of the Impact MBA Full-time program. With its intensive, English-taught 14-month curriculum, the Impact MBA acts as a career accelerator. It prepares you to lead with confidence within a global context. Deep academic learning, case study immersions, and hands-on projects immerse you in all aspects of modern business.
The exceptional level of Career and Personal Development (CPD) at Nyenrode means you’re fully supported from the beginning of your MBA experience. Every student’s CPD journey is unique. Yet, as Martijn explains, it’s a journey that follows a very clear framework.
“It’s a journey that follows a very clear and structured cycle of three phases. The first one is self-assessment, the second one is career exploration, and the third one is career preparation,” he says. (01:00)
MBA students are also encouraged to reflect on their personal brand with one-to-one coaching and personal development workshops. These help them articulate their strengths and pinpoint their unique value in the real world.
With this support, students ensure their career trajectory is intentional, enabling them to connect past experiences and career aspirations. This creates strong career outcomes, with an impressive 96% of Nyenrode students finding employment within six months of graduation.
The Nyenrode MBA community is exceptionally strong. It’s a communal strength that extends well beyond graduation.
“What really stands out is our alumni network,” says Martijn. “It’s one of the most engaged networks I’ve seen.” (03:32)
Nyenrode’s 30,000-strong alumni network is central to the career development of the school’s graduates. Experienced alumni act as generational mentors, passing on industry-specific advice to graduate students. The school’s alumni network creates a cycle of success. Referrals, knowledge sharing, and prestige are passed down.
These connections are facilitated by regular on-campus career events. One such event is the ‘Careers in Networking Sessions’. “These events are where we invite alumni back to the university, back to our campus,” explains Martijn. “We match them with students based on their industry or interest.” (05:02)
These are very practical, focused sessions that create valuable connections. In addition to meeting Nyenrode alumni, students can connect with industry leaders, explore career paths, and engage with corporate partners.
The Nyenrode Impact MBA prepares you to take control of your own career progression. Whether you’re looking for a big career pivot or to step up to a leadership role, you’ll develop the strategic mindset and essential knowledge to carve out the career you want.
As Martijn explains, there are clear patterns when it comes to career progression after the Impact MBA.
“In terms of industries, many people go into financial services and corporate finance. We see a lot of them going into software and IT. Also, a big one is logistics and transportation,” he says. “And lastly, a lot of people want to go into consulting or are already moving through different levels in the consulting industry.” (06:06)
Nyenrode MBA graduates become business development leads, senior program managers, product managers, or digital transformation specialists. Some take senior leadership or C-level roles. Others decide to launch their own startups, becoming entrepreneurs and following a particular interest or passion.
While some Impact MBA alumni decide to pursue long-term careers in Germany, the UK, Ireland, or other European countries, many opt for jobs in the Netherlands. This is helped by the fact that the Netherlands ranks #1 in the world for non-native English proficiency.
“The majority of our alumni, if I look at our last two cohorts, actually remained in the Netherlands… up to 70%. They came from different countries [throughout] Europe, the Americas, and Asia,” explains Martijn. “They were able to use the MBA as an accelerator, to give them a nice entry into the Netherlands.” (06:47)
Nyenrode Impact MBA alumni have gone on to work for some of the world’s leading companies. These include the ‘big four’ professional services companies: PwC, Deloitte, EY, and KPMG. Some land roles at major banks such as ING and ABN AMRO. Others pursue careers at large-scale consumer brands, such as Ikea, Under Armour, and Booking.com.
The Nyenrode Impact MBA has helped launch successful careers for countless professionals. The business school’s Triple Crown accreditation, personalized learning, and mission to shape responsible leaders elevate it above the competition. Yet, Martijn urges prospective Impact MBA students not to forget the alumni network.
“If I could give one key piece of advice to MBA students, it would be to connect to our alumni,” he says. “They’re everywhere. They are in different industries, roles, and countries, and they’re incredibly open to supporting others. That network can truly help to accelerate your career journey.” (09:33)
Like the school’s alumni, Nyenrode’s Career and Personal Development service is a lifelong asset, offering mentorship, collaboration, and professional opportunities. If you’re looking to launch a global career at a multinational or become a leading entrepreneur, it’s the kind of support that makes the difference.
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