Insights into the EMBA Journey: Helen Gloor on Leadership, Perspectives, and Learning
What was the biggest shift the EMBA created for you?
Before the EMBA, I was often translating decisions into communication. The program helped me move closer to the decision-making process itself. I gained the language and frameworks to contribute across strategy, finance, and operations.
What did you learn about leadership?
Leadership became less about having answers and more about creating clarity. I learned that asking the right question often matters more than giving the quickest answer.
How did the EMBA change your perspective?
It gave me a wider lens. I stopped looking at challenges in isolation and started seeing systems — how strategy, operations, people, and finances connect.
What role did the international Learning Expeditions play?
The Learning Expeditions were among the most memorable parts of the journey because they moved learning beyond the classroom.
At Yale University, intensive negotiation sessions showed me that negotiation is far more than reaching an agreement — it is about understanding motivations, creating value, and navigating complexity under pressure.
In Stanford and Silicon Valley, we experienced innovation at its source. Seeing the mindset and speed at which startups and technology companies operate was eye-opening. What stood out was the contrast: some of the world's most influential companies still maintain an entrepreneurial culture where experimentation, curiosity, and fast decision-making drive progress.
At Hanken Business School in Helsinki, we had outstanding lectures and stepped into one of Europe's largest startup ecosystems. We visited Slush – Europes biggest start-up event. Surrounded by founders, investors, and innovators from around the world, you could feel the energy of ideas being tested and transformed into businesses in real time.
These experiences turned concepts into something tangible. Case studies give you frameworks; being immersed in these environments gives you instinct and perspective.
What surprised you most?
The amount of self-reflection. Working with peers from different industries showed me how others experienced my leadership style and helped me understand my own patterns more clearly.
What role did the cohort play?
The cohort became mentorship in disguise. Learning from senior professionals across industries changes the way you think and expands your perspective.
Your advice for future EMBA participants?
Step outside your comfort zone. Volunteer for the role you would normally avoid, ask the question that feels uncomfortable, and use the program as a space to experiment and grow.