When Francesca Pannozzo, Associate Director at Accent Global Learning, discovered she was pregnant, she also discovered her moment of transformation. With unwavering determination and a clear vision for her future, she made the bold decision to enroll in the Online International Executive MBA at the Swiss School of Business and Management Geneva. For Francesca, the self-paced, flexible format was not just a convenience—it was a lifeline. It allowed her to balance the demands of motherhood, a full-time career, and rigorous academic pursuits. Her journey is a testament to what’s possible when ambition meets opportunity in the right learning environment.
What inspired you to pursue an Executive MBA at SSBM Geneva, and why did you choose the online format?
I know it sounds incredible, but I decided to finally pursue an Executive MBA as soon as I found out I was pregnant. I thought: “now or never”. The idea was to do something to enhance my professional career while I could still handle it. The online format was perfect in this regard as it allowed me to organize my time between work, study, and my baby. The self-paced option was the only option that could work for my situation as a pregnant/newly mum working woman.
How has the Online International Executive MBA program impacted your professional growth and leadership style?
After completing the Online International Executive MBA, I feel I have become not only a more conscious but also a more strategic leader. Moreover, I have gained the knowledge and tools that can help me further enhance my professional growth within my company.
As Associate Director at Accent Global Learning, how do you balance strategic business development with academic program implementation?
As Associate Director at Accent Global Learning, I’m constantly balancing the strategic, the academic, and the daily operations. On one side, I work to develop new learning opportunities for our students and partner universities; on the other, I ensure the academic quality and smooth execution of our study abroad programs. The Online International Executive MBA has been critical in helping me approach these responsibilities with greater lucidity and effectiveness, combining conscious leadership and strategic thinking.
In what ways has your perspective on global education and leadership evolved since completing the program?
Since completing the program, my perspective on global education and leadership has evolved significantly. I now view global education as a strategic asset with broader implications for the economies and societies of the countries involved. Additionally, I’ve come to better understand how these programs contribute to shaping the global leaders of tomorrow, fostering a more inclusive, adaptable, and creative style of leadership.
What advice would you give to professionals considering an online Executive MBA while managing demanding roles?
Allocate specific time windows in your daily schedule to work on your MBA and use real business problems as case studies.
Francesca’s story is a compelling reminder that there’s never a “perfect” time – only the right time to invest in yourself. Through SSBM Geneva’s Online International Executive MBA, she has emerged as a more strategic and conscious leader, equipped with the tools to drive innovation in global education. Her experience reflects the power of adaptive learning and intentional leadership, proving that with the right support and mindset, professionals can elevate their impact while navigating even the most demanding phases of life.