From DBA to CEO: Christopher Sanchez’s Leadership Journey with the Swiss School of Business and Management

Blog > From DBA to CEO: Christopher Sanchez’s Leadership Journey with the Swiss School of Business and Management

The Swiss School of Business and Management Geneva (SSBM) proudly celebrates the success of its Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) alumnus, Christopher Sanchez, who has risen to become CEO of Soleil Alpine Lifestyle Hotel. Christopher’s journey reflects the transformative impact of SSBM’s doctoral program—combining academic excellence, strategic insight, and real-world application. In his testimonial, he shares how the DBA experience empowered him.

Through dedication, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Christopher leveraged his DBA experience to elevate his strategic thinking, refine his executive leadership skills, and drive meaningful growth within the luxury hospitality sector. His inspiring story reflects not only personal success but also the empowering academic environment at SSBM that equips leaders to shape industries, inspire teams, and create lasting value on a global stage.

dba alumni christoper sanchez

What motivated you to pursue the Doctor in Business Administration (DBA) in Corporate Strategy at SSBM Geneva?

After more than 20 years in hospitality leadership, I wanted to deepen my strategic perspective and complement practice with rigorous academic insight. The DBA in Corporate Strategy at SSBM Geneva offered the ideal balance between theory, research, and real-world application at an executive level.

How has the DBA program strengthened your strategic thinking and decision-making as a Hotel CEO?

The DBA sharpened my ability to think systemically, evaluate long-term strategic impact, and make evidence-based decisions. It helped me move from intuitive leadership to more structured, analytical, and forward-looking decision-making.

The DBA reinforced a more reflective, inclusive, and purpose-driven leadership style.

Can you share how SSBM Geneva complemented your 20+ years of hands-on experience in hotel and hospitality operations?

SSBM Geneva provided the theoretical frameworks and research tools that allowed me to reinterpret my professional experience through a strategic lens. It transformed experience into structured knowledge and helped me challenge established practices with informed innovation.

What impact has the DBA had on your leadership style?

The DBA reinforced a more reflective, inclusive, and purpose-driven leadership style. I am now more focused on strategic alignment, knowledge sharing, and empowering teams through clarity of vision and data-informed direction.

What would you advise professionals considering a DBA at SSBM Geneva as part of their continuous learning and leadership development journey?

I would strongly encourage them to see the DBA not as a title, but as a transformational journey. It is ideal for leaders who want to elevate their strategic mindset, remain intellectually curious, and lead their organizations with confidence in an increasingly complex business environment.