ISCTE EMBA in Lisbon offers a curated experience that blends international standards with Portuguese nuances. This combination ensures a holistic education and prepares students to excel on the global stage while fostering a deeper appreciation for Portugal’s unique business landscape.
ISCTE Business School’s Executive MBA (EMBA) adapts Portuguese business tradition to global standards in the heart of Lisbon. Since its founding in 1988, the institution has been a trailblazer in executive education, championing real-world learning, forming unique collaborations, and co-designing programs that have fortified its reputation as a leader in applied business solutions.
Pedro Fontes Falcão, the Executive MBA Director of ISCTE Business School, emphasizes the program’s unique positioning of catering to Portuguese students. (00:38)
Despite its local focus, or perhaps because of it, the EMBA program at ISCTE is among the top 100 in the world, according to the Financial Times.
Portugal’s rich history and cultural heritage have deeply influenced its traditional business practices. While these traditions have merits, the rapidly globalizing world demands a more adaptable approach. Recognizing this need for evolution, ISCTE Business School is taking the lead in reshaping Portugal’s business landscape.
For example, the boundary between professional commitments and personal life often becomes blurred in today’s hyper-connected world. Recognizing this challenge, the EMBA emphasizes instilling work-life balance principles within its students.
Pedro explains the program tries “to educate people to respect more the time outside of work that people have.” (02:47)
ISCTE’s EMBA students are encouraged to recognize the importance of rejuvenation and the profound impact of respecting boundaries for themselves and their teams. The program cultivates leaders who thrive in the corporate world while cherishing personal serenity and fulfillment.
Another way ISCTE is pushing students to challenge themselves, and tradition is in the area of collaboration.
Historically, Portuguese businesses have shown a reduced appetite for collaborations and partnerships, often preferring to operate independently. However, ISCTE understands the value of collaborations and partnerships, especially in a globally connected business landscape. Through its EMBA, it’s demonstrating the importance of forming strong, strategic partnerships vital for any business aiming for global expansion.
“The fact that you are able to collaborate to partner with other companies in your industry or sometimes outside of your industry is key for growing,” Pedro says. (03:39)
This emphasis on collaboration prepares students to forge alliances. Additionally, it aims to enrich their professional outlook and enable them to benefit from synergistic relationships. The program teaches the value of joint efforts and shared goals.
Additionally, while traditional business practices tend to favor hierarchical decision-making, ISCTE EMBA promotes a culture that values diverse viewpoints. As such, the school also welcomes international students and their insights.
Lisbon’s captivating blend of sea, sun, and urban sophistication provides a vibrant backdrop for learning. The city, being safe, affordable, and well-connected, is naturally attractive to international professionals and students.
Pedro explains that not knowing Portuguese shouldn’t discourage those looking to learn with ISCTE. “We have some programs with international students or in partnership with international schools. And so we have some programs in English.” (01:39)
In the curriculum, as students are exposed to global business scenarios, there’s an emphasis on cases with a Portuguese context. Thus ensuring a deep understanding of local business nuances.
ISCTE’s EMBA is an educational program that blends Portuguese tradition with global standards. Rooted in Lisbon’s vibrant business scene, the program emphasizes real-world learning, collaboration, and the importance of work-life balance.
It strives to cultivate professionals who can embrace differing viewpoints and unite disparate entities to reach collective objectives.
In essence, ISCTE’s unique approach is dedicated to producing not just successful individuals but inspirational leaders. Leaders who are poised to guide their teams, partners, and the broader business community toward shared victories and innovative breakthroughs in the global arena.
Interested in undertaking an MBA? Engage with MBA candidates and alumni from leading business schools via the MBAGRADSCHOOLS Ambassadors page.
