GLOBAL MBA

MARCELLO RUSSO
Global MBA Director
marcello.russo2@unibo.it

Welcome to the Global MBA at Bologna Business School!

The Bologna Business School Global MBA is a 12-month program that takes students on an enriching journey towards the discovery of excellence and luxury. During their year at Bologna Business School, students will have the opportunity to develop a solid understanding of how business organizations operate in a global environment, as well as expand their knowledge on five different tracks: AI and Manufacturing; Food and Wine; Design, Fashion and Luxury Goods; Green Energy and Sustainable Businesses; Supercars, Superbikes, and Motorsports.

By learning both foundational and cutting-edge concepts in management, students will develop the necessary professional competencies, leadership mindset, and network to become leading actors in the promotion of constructive changes in modern organizations and societies. The programme is divided into the following building blocks: Orientation Modules, General Management, Track-specific Classes and Clinics, which are interactive sessions where students can discourse in an informal atmosphere with business leaders, who will share their knowledge and experience on cutting-edge topics for modern organizations.

Each course is divided into two parts: theory and practice. The “theory” part is led by an academic faculty member, who will take the class through the most advanced research evidence on the topic at hand. A business manager is in charge of the “practice” part: she will introduce students to a real business case that will help them to apply the knowledge and tools acquired during the year in a real company problem.  Moreover, to complete each track, students will be involved in a Capstone Project, where they will work in teams on real-world projects.

EFMD accreditation guarantees the presence of the most qualified faculty and leading practitioners, who bring their experience and vision into the classroom to help students master the complexity of organizations and the psychology of people.

The Global MBA is supported by an expanding network of Italian and International leading companies that participate in the design, implementation, and execution of the program, as well as offering students interesting career and personal development opportunities.

Global MBA students will participate in several career workshops and meetings with headhunters – with the guidance of an Industrial Career Coach – and personal development training that will help them gain confidence in their unique talents and acquire the necessary resources to achieve their professional goals, and turn their passions into a successful career.

 

At Bologna Business School, students will be immersed in a global community: we are embedded in one of the oldest Universities of the world, our students come from all over the world, and we are located in the heart of Italy and Europe. Come study at Bologna Business School to live the best of the Italian experience at international standards.

Download the brochure

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TAKING ITALIAN EXCELLENCE GLOBAL

The Global MBA is a 12-month full-time program entirely taught in English. It’s divided into three modules: general management, specialization courses and a period of internship or project work in a company. There are five specializations to choose from:

EFMD
The Global MBA has received EFMD program accreditation for 5 years.

 

EQUIS

Bologna Business School is EQUIS – EFMD Quality Improvement System accredited, one of the most important international quality assessment and continuous improvement systems for Schools of Management and Business Administration.

LIFE #atBBS

“The first thing to do is to be challenged with questions, new perspectives that question what is considered established theories.”

Benedetto Vigna
CEO, Ferrari

“You can not have a prominent career unless you’re curious. This is my advice for a student today.”

Eugenio Sidoli
CEO, Max Mara srl

“We must have the courage to create new projects. We are redesigning humanity, in this new project, Europe has its greatest value. And in Europe, Italy has its greatest value.”

Brunello Cucinelli
President and CEO, Brunello Cucinelli SpA

Alec Ross, Distinguished Visiting Professor

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ALUMNI

Alfonso Faure Meza – Mexico

Senior Operative Project Engineer, McLaren
Global MBA - Supercars, Superbikes and Motorsports (A.Y. 2021/2022)

"My journey through the Global MBA at BBS has been truly transformative. It offered me the perfect blend of the dynamic business environment and the enriching academic world. Learning from industry leaders and international professors, alongside my diverse class of fellow students, has provided me with a global perspective and fostered personal growth. The 'Supercars, Superbikes, and Motorsports' track allowed me to explore my passion despite how far I am from home. My decision to pursue an MBA at BBS has been a game-changer, both professionally and personally. I am grateful for the friendships I've built during the program, which are truly special. This MBA has broadened my career horizons, instilled confidence, and equipped me to thrive in a multicultural world."

Anisa Hung – Hong Kong

Partner Management, Alpine
Global MBA - Supercars, Superbikes and Motorsports (A.Y. 2020/2021)

"It was a “dream come true” journey thanks to the Global MBA program. I benefited from the network that BBS offered. With the support from industry leaders and professors, I had the opportunity to develop my business management skills and experience in Motor-racing industry, to build a stronger community for women in motorsport and connect the bridge to Far East Asia. I am fortunate enough to keep my passion and career entwined. "

Carlos Alberto Rojas Zanol – Chile

PPA Manager, Qualitas Energy
Global MBA - Sustainability and Innovation (A.Y. 2022/23)

"Embarking on BBS’ Global MBA was a life-changing journey that broadened my personal and professional horizons. The diverse student body of 20+ nationalities provided me with a unique perspective on the business world. I was fortunate enough to learn from exceptional professors and industry leaders, and with the support of the Career Service of Bologna Business School, I landed to an internship that was later converted into a job, where I contribute to the green energy transition. This challenging but rewarding program is more than education: it’s a gateway to global business and personal growth."

CORINNE ANNA MAZURKIEWICZ – CANADA/POLAND

Senior Product Marketing Manager, Revolut
Global MBA - Design, Fashion and Luxury Goods (A.Y. 2018/2019)

"What attracted me to the Global MBA was the proximity to top luxury brands and the ability to develop an international perspective that comes relocating. Being taught by successful industry leading professionals, in the luxury sector is something that was fundamental in my learning at BBS. And the diverse range of topics within the Design, Fashion and Luxury Goods program allowed me to gain a broad knowledge of luxury categories, but also specialize in luxury beauty where I achieved my goal of working for the leading brand in the sector. "

Deanna D’Alfonso – USA

Brand Manager, Terlato Wines
Global MBA - Food and Wine (A.Y. 2013/2014)

"The constant global immersion as you interact with students from all over the world, facing challenges together while acquiring new skills and approaches to business is unprecedented. This maximizes your networking potential and peer learning opportunities throughout the year and beyond."

Diksha Sikarwar – India

Project Manager, Ykone
Global MBA - Design, Fashion and Luxury Goods (A.Y. 2020/2021)

"Enrolling in the Global MBA in Design, Fashion, and Luxury Business was one of the best decisions for my career. I wanted a program that would deepen my business skills and immerse me in the unique dynamics of the luxury and fashion industries. This MBA exceeded my expectations. A key strength of the program was direct industry exposure: exclusive company visits, networking events with top executives, and hands-on projects with renowned luxury brands allowed me to connect with key industry players and build a strong professional network. Working with classmates from diverse backgrounds enriched my learning experience, giving me a global business perspective and sharpening my adaptability, essential skills in the luxury and fashion world. Thanks to this MBA, I transitioned into a management role in the industry with the confidence, connections, and strategic mindset needed to thrive. If you are passionate about luxury, fashion, and design and want a program that combines academic rigor with real-world experience, I highly recommend it."

Elizabeth Olivares – Colombia

Operations Supervisor Food Production and Supply Chain, NSF
Global MBA - Food & Wine (A.Y. 2023/24)

"Being part of the Global MBA Food & Wine program with a technical engineering background has given me the opportunity to strengthen my knowledge in a more administrative and business-oriented environment, while also enhancing my ability to build relationships and develop my leadership skills. Beyond the academic value provided by the university, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to meet incredible people and build friendships that transcend borders. Sharing this experience with professionals from different regions and cultures has allowed me to broaden my perspective and deepen my understanding of global dynamics—not only within the food industry but more broadly. This experience has had a real impact on my daily work, leading an international team and collaborating with colleagues across the region. Beyond technical skills, the MBA has given me a global mindset and a network that continues to open doors and inspire new possibilities every day."

Elizaveta Ponomarenko

Senior Manager, Travel Product & Experiences, Olympics, On Location
Global MBA - Design, Fashion & Luxury Goods (A.Y. 2023/2024)

"The Global MBA program gave me the strategic thinking and global experience needed to go beyond operational event management. Most importantly, it allowed me to build a high-level international network in luxury, hospitality and experience design - a key asset in my current work at the Olympic Games. The program offered a solid framework that I continue to apply when designing impressive global event experiences - and reflect on them from both a strategic and real-world perspective."

Federico Roberto Pieri – Argentina

Global Business & Partnership Developer Manager, TasteAtlas
Global MBA - Food and Wine (A.Y. 2022/23)

"The Global MBA in Food and Wine at BBS transformed my career in two significant ways. First, it provided rigorous soft skills training that enhanced my ability to excel in diverse business and multicultural environments. Second, the specialized hard skills training in Food & Wine elevated my gastronomic expertise, enabling me to speak the "food & beverage industry language." Thanks to the program, I've opened a new career path in the food and beverage industry that aligns with my initial aspirations."

Francesco Maioli – Italy

Chief Commercial Officer, Geofoods Italian Truffles
Global MBA - Food and Wine (A.Y. 2011/2012)

"I chose to undertake my MBA journey while already having a successful career in the F&B industry. It was surely an incredible experience that allowed me to move further in the International F&B business world, enlarge my network and multicultural connections and get ready for new challenging tasks. "

Giorgia Pagotto – Italy

a Retail & Key Account Specialist, Clarins
Global MBA - Design, Fashion and Luxury Goods (A.Y. 2023/2024)

"As a Retail & Key Account Specialist at Clarins, I apply strategic and analytical skills to support the commercial development of a leading beauty brand. My MBA in Design, Fashion and Luxury Goods from Bologna Business School enhanced my expertise in consumer experience, brand management, and retail excellence. It also gave me the ability to approach challenges with perspective and to analyze problems and solutions through a broad, well-structured lens."

James Gentile – USA

Global Sports Advisor, Goldlight Partners
Global MBA - Supercars, Superbikes and Motorsports (A.Y. 2018/2019)

"Choosing to participate in the Global MBA in Supercars, Superbikes & Motorsports at Bologna Business School was tied to my passion for Italy, a desire for advanced learning, and an absolute obsession for automobiles & motorsports. This unique program – the first and only MBA of its kind anywhere in the world – is inextricably linked to the rich culture of Emilia-Romagna and the globally-admired brands that define Italian excellence in luxury and performance.I feel very lucky to be here in Bologna, surrounded by incredible culture and the buzz of Motor Valley; I only hope that one day I will be able to give back as much as I stand to gain."

JENNIFER VAN RENSBURG – SOUTH AFRICA

Director Merchandising & VM, MEAI, Bulgari
Global MBA - Design, Fashion and Luxury Goods (A.Y. 2014/2015)

"Deciding to do my MBA at BBS has been a game changer both professionally and personally; you discover what you are truly capable of. Learning from industry leaders was a priceless experience, and BBS has an incredible faculty who are open to their students. I will forever value my time in Italy and the special friendships built during the program."

Kinzie Wilson – USA

Digital Innovation Analyst, Dallara
Global MBA - Supercars, Superbikes and Motorsports (A.Y. 2023/24)

"The Global MBA in Supercars, Superbikes, and Motorsports was a truly remarkable experience. Being able to learn from some of the most renowned professionals in the industry was valuable in itself, but BBS also opened doors, literally, to gain an inside look at companies such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Dallara, and more. The connections made and the experiences that I gained while in this program were more than worth it. However, the blend of these aspects, along with the education I received, was exactly what was needed to help me land a job at my dream company. As the youngest in the program and the only female in the SSM track during my edition, I hope to open doors for others after me and show them that you don’t have to wait to start chasing your dream!"

Lan Liu – China

Export, Marketing & Communication, Gaja
Global MBA - Food and Wine (A.Y. 2015/2016)

"My experience at BBS has reshaped my lifestyle and helped me achieve balance between my long-term career development and my everyday life. Fascinated by minds of scholars and colleagues from every corner of the world in class, I was equally inspired by the food and street musicians off class. A special bonus: I now speak Italian. La vita è veramente bella a Bologna!"

Loza Tamirat Bizuneh – Ethiopia

Business Analyst, Vertiv
Global MBA - Sustainability and Innovation (A.Y. 2022/23)

"Looking back, enrolling in the Global MBA in Sustainability and Innovation was a wise decision I made. This program goes beyond lectures, fostering a dynamic mentality and enhancing my understanding of sustainability within a business context. It's been a journey that shaped how I think and work. I've been trained to tackle real-world challenges, be adaptable, and solve problems effectively."

Manuel Orlando Chocontá Villamizar – Colombia

Aftersales Manager, Phelon and Moore Motors
Global MBA - Supercars, Superbikes and Motorsports (A.Y. 2023/2024)

"The GMBA program at BBS has been a transformative experience, providing me with global business insights, a strong professional network, and hands-on learning opportunities. The international environment and industry connections have been invaluable in shaping my career, equipping me with the skills and confidence to excel in the automotive sector. Learning alongside professionals from diverse backgrounds has expanded my strategic thinking and leadership skills, making this journey truly inspiring and rewarding."

Mauricio Eduardo Ayulo Gobelli – Peru

Data Specialist for Temerario Product Line, Automobili Lamborghini
Global MBA - Supercars, Superbikes & Motorsports (A.Y. 2023/24)

"Joining the Global MBA in Supercars, Superbikes, and Motorsports was a turning point in my career. Studying in Italy’s Motor Valley, home to world-renowned companies like Lamborghini, Ferrari, Dallara, and Ducati, allowed me to engage with the industry at its core. The program’s mix of business education and hands-on industry exposure, combined with insights from leaders like Prof. Nicola Boari and Prof. Maurizio Reggiani, made it truly unique. Beyond the classroom, this MBA connected me with passionate classmates and industry professionals who share the same drive for innovation. Living in Italy, with its deep-rooted automotive culture, made the experience even more special. It also opened the door to an incredible opportunity at Lamborghini, where I had the chance to contribute to the development of the new Temerario model. I’m grateful for this journey and how it shaped my career in high-performance automotive excellence."

Meron Serawit Kiflu – Ethiopia

Sustainability Project Manager, Videndum Media Solutions
Global MBA - Sustainability and Innovation (A.Y. 2020/2021)

"An incredible experience and life changing opportunity! Teaching meets the highest international standards, while business integration, and cross-cultural experience have all aided my career and personal development. The Global MBA balanced theory and practice and I learned applied skills through a specific course in green energy and sustainable business which allows me to immediately and easily integrate into an international workplace."

Roberto Camuffo – ITALY

Global Product Marketing Manager, Pirelli BU Moto
Global MBA - Supercars, Superbikes and Motorsports (A.Y. 2021/2022)

"Attending the Global MBA in Supercars, Superbikes and Motorsports gave me the opportunity to engage with an international class, enriching my skills through hands-on projects, specialized courses, and a highly stimulating environment. The direct contribution of top managers from the industry not only added invaluable educational insight but also fostered the creation of a strong, high-level network within the field. The MBA proved to be the missing piece in my journey, completing my profile with a 360-degree perspective and expanding my understanding of business, even in areas that had previously been less aligned with my experience. This program has significantly strengthened my leadership and strategic vision, both of which are now essential in my role, for managing the product roadmap as well as for effectively coordinating the team."

Temitope Akintola – Nigeria

Regional Export Manager Americas, Zonin1821
Global MBA - Food and Wine (A.Y. 2016/2017)

"My MBA journey at BBS started with a lot of fun, uncertainties and expectations. It’s a year now and the fun has been replaced with network, uncertainties with direction and expectations with a clear reality. The education obtained has been instrumental in my chosen profession as a Food and Wine consultant with Africa as my target market."

Walter Mangini – Italy

Sustainability Team Lead for Digital Tools and Applications, Henkel, Henkel
Global MBA – Sustainability and Innovation (A.Y. 2021/2022)

"This course of study exposes young professionals to the leading emerging trends in sustainability, while instilling an enhanced sense of social responsibility oriented to the private, corporate and public sphere. Whether you are looking for a career transition or you want to deepen your knowledge of sustainable business models, the BBS Global MBA will provide you with new lenses to read world dynamics and unlock your potential."