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Driving Purpose Through Innovation: Dr. Stefano Malpangotti’s DBA Journey at SSBM Geneva

Blog > Driving Purpose Through Innovation: Dr. Stefano Malpangotti’s DBA Journey at SSBM Geneva

SSBM Geneva proudly highlights the journey of our Global DBA alumnus, Dr. Stefano Malpangotti. Drawn to SSBM Geneva’s Global DBA program for its global perspective and flexibility, Dr. Malpangotti found the perfect environment to advance his research on the Purpose-Driven Innovation (PDI) framework. Through the program’s dynamic curriculum, expert mentorship, and access to extensive research resources, he successfully tested his framework using Netflix as a real-world case study, bridging theory and practice in a meaningful way that reflects the spirit of SSBM Geneva’s doctoral programs.

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What drew you to pursue the Global DBA program at SSBM Geneva, and how did it help your research?

The Global DBA program at SSBM Geneva was the perfect fit for my aspirations. It offered a global perspective, a strong focus on practical application, and the flexibility I needed to balance professional commitments with rigorous research. The curriculum, with its comprehensive modules on strategic management and innovation, along with the extensive digital library and research databases, provided the perfect toolkit to rigorously test my Purpose-Driven Innovation (PDI) framework. With my mentor’s expert guidance, I could rigorously analyse Netflix as a real-world case study, thereby validating the strategic relevance of my research within a dynamic business context.

Could you share how SSBM’s curriculum and resources helped you integrate practical application in testing the PDI framework with a real-world case like Netflix?

The global perspective offered by SSBM Geneva was instrumental in shaping my understanding of strategic management and innovation. This global lens allowed me to focus on creating impactful, sustainable solutions, addressing today’s complex challenges, and moving beyond mere novelty to generate lasting value in a rapidly changing world.

In what ways did SSBM’s international environment shape your understanding of strategic management and innovation on a global scale?

My doctoral research involved creating the Purpose-Driven Innovation (PDI) framework and testing it using Netflix as a case study. SSBM Geneva’s Global DBA program was the perfect match for this endeavour due to its emphasis on practical application. This approach enabled me to directly apply the theoretical framework to a real-world organization, demonstrating how PDI can align innovation with core values to drive meaningful impact and effectiveness

You wrote about lifelong learning in your book Dare to Learn!. What aspects of the DBA program were most valuable in your commitment to lifelong learning?

The DBA program significantly strengthened my dedication to lifelong learning. Its flexible design allowed me to balance research with professional responsibilities, making continuous learning possible even in a demanding career. The development of the PDI framework itself reflects my passion for delivering actionable insights into modern management and leadership. This underscores the program’s value in fostering intellectual growth and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in ways that inspire and empower others.

How would you advise future DBA candidates?

I would advise future DBA candidates to first choose a research topic they are deeply passionate about. This passion will be your driving force through challenging phases, keeping your motivation high and making it easier to integrate research into your professional life. Secondly, leverage your professional experience by seeking opportunities to align your research with your work. Using real-world problems or data creates synergy, making your research directly impactful and often more efficient to conduct. Finally, embrace flexibility and consistent, small steps. Break down large tasks into manageable daily or weekly goals. Consistency, even in small increments, is key. Also, maintain open communication with your supervisors regarding your progress and needs.

Dr. Malpangotti’s achievement illustrates the core mission of SSBM Geneva — to empower leaders to create real-world impact through research, innovation, and lifelong learning. His work validates the relevance of the Global DBA program and also serves as an inspiration for future candidates seeking to connect academic insight with practical application. We are proud to count Dr. Malpangotti among our distinguished alumni and to see his Purpose-Driven Innovation framework contributing to a more thoughtful and value-centred approach to global business and leadership.