Life-Changing Connections in the Kellogg-WHU EMBA

The Kellogg-WHU Executive MBA is a diverse mix of people, with leaders from varied industries, academic backgrounds, cultures, and differing life experiences. This enriches the study experience with open dialogue and discussion, classes moderated by professors, and the student's learning process. It's a living, breathing network of passionate people striving to make a difference in the world and finding deep value in the connections they make in the process.

Thomas Friedrich joined the program while working for Toshiba in the late 90s. He wanted to develop a more strategic yet global perspective, and leadership skills to help him navigate more complex business environments. "The EMBA was a great opportunity to refine my expertise," he says. “I was searching for a broader network and was particularly curious about building contacts and exposure to the North American market. This was a network that I continued to use for the next 10 years. Kellogg-WHU has a stellar reputation for leadership and strategy knowledge. Its strong European business focus, global reach, international partner campuses, and diverse cohort were all key factors in choosing it for my EMBA.”

Finally graduating in 2000, he fondly remembers his time in the program despite describing it as an "intense learning experience." "I have so many memories from my studies at Kellogg-WHU," he explains, “especially the late-night discussions with peers and the camaraderie among the students. I vividly remember the international module to Chicago—traveling together and experiencing different business environments. And, of course, I have made many friendships and connections along the way, many of which I still cherish today. I specifically liked the guest speakers from various industries and company types—from large corporates to small businesses—to learn about their challenges and pain points and how they overcame them.”

Aside from the wider network he discovered through his studies, he points out the strong emphasis on entrepreneurship at Kellogg-WHU. "The program helped me develop an entrepreneurial mindset, which has played a significant role in my career. Throughout the experience, I had the chance to connect with founders, VCs, and corporate innovators—it gave me a lot of practical insight into how you can take an idea and turn it into a scalable business.

“This focus is especially relevant in Sweden, where the start-up scene is thriving—especially in tech-driven areas like AI, mobility, and SaaS. With strong support for new ventures and a global outlook, Sweden is a great place for professionals who want to combine leadership with an entrepreneurial edge. The Kellogg-WHU EMBA equips you with the right tools to succeed in that environment, which is why it's such a great fit for Swedish professionals aiming to lead innovation and drive real growth.”

What can be a surprising by-product of the EMBA, however, is the number of marriages and partnerships that arise through the program. This was no different for Thomas, who met his wife through the cohort. Five years after graduating, he visited a former classmate living in Sweden during a stopover in Stockholm. He met his friend Magnus, who brought his sister Lina along for the evening. "The rest," he says, “is history.”

Now living in Sweden with his wife and children, he points out that while EMBA programs are not as prevalent there as in Germany or the US, this is starting to change. With great universities and existing executive education programs in the country, there has previously been little demand for the executive MBA format. “As businesses become more global and leadership skills become more critical, I see a growing interest in high-quality EMBA programs. Especially among international professionals and executives working in multinational companies. I think that larger cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, or Malmö have a greater need for the Kellogg-WHU experience.”

Despite being in the Nordics, Thomas does his best to stay connected to the network. While the number of Kellogg-WHU alums is smaller there, they find they are better connected, bolstered by an active expat and business community within Sweden. Whether at professional events or personal gatherings, Thomas ensures he reconnects with his former peers as much as possible. “It's important to build and nurture your network—it's one of the most valuable assets you gain from the program.”