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“So­ci­et­al well-be­ing and eco­nom­ic de­vel­op­ment go hand-in-hand”

Jayraj Pandya is earning his MBA at Copenhagen Business School, immersing himself in holistic business management with a focus on sustainability. With a background in public‑sector regulatory affairs, his journey reflects a commitment to integrating societal values with business practices, echoing CBS’s vision of “doing business with society.”

Karriere Samfund
Forfatter

Full-Time MBA

Why did you choose the CBS MBA?

I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and commerce about a decade ago. Along with my degree, I also earned the state-certified public accountant qualification from India. Initially, my interest was in pivoting to the public sector, which led me to work in various roles there for nearly ten years. During this period, I realized that to be more effective in managerial roles, I needed a foundational education in management.

I began searching for a programme that not only provided quality management education but also focused on sustainability. Sustainability is becoming a crucial area in policymaking and the way we operate as a society and economy. In my search, I discovered that the CBS MBA programme was the perfect blend of these elements. CBS’s vision of “doing business with society” resonated with me, reflecting the institution's commitment to integrating societal values with economic practices. This alignment with my own values and professional goals made CBS an ideal choice.

“My research highlighted Denmark’s strong emphasis on sustainability at both societal and economic levels. Denmark is known for its world-class research and economic development, all while maintaining its Danish values and a focus on sustainability.” Jayraj Pandya
Full-Time MBA participant, Class of 2023
Portrait of Jayraj Pandya, alumni from FTMBA

This made me confident that studying at CBS would not only provide a robust management education but also offer meaningful international experience in a country that values sustainability highly.

What have you found challenging about the programme?

The primary challenge has been adapting to a foreign country and its climate. We start the program around the time that winter sets in, which was a significant adjustment for me. The cold weather and shorter daylight hours can be challenging, especially if you are coming from a much warmer region.

However, the university and the administration have been extremely supportive, ensuring that we are well taken care of in various ways. They provide resources and support systems to help us adapt. Despite this, it's important for anyone considering the programme to be prepared for these adjustments. Adapting to local sensibilities and the environment is crucial for a smooth transition. Overall, while the climate was a challenge, the support from CBS made the process much more manageable.

What is your Strategy Project?

I secured a Strategy Project with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), a fund management company that focuses on renewable power projects. I will be working with their sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) team. This opportunity aligns perfectly with my career interests and goals. CIP is involved in managing funds for large-scale renewable energy projects, which is a field I am passionate about. Working with their sustainability team will give me hands-on experience in the renewable energysustainable finance sector and allow me to apply what I have learned in earning my MBA to real-world projects. This internship not only compliments my academic focus but also provides invaluable professional experience in a leading company in the sustainability sector.

What advice would you give to prospective students?

My advice would be to prepare for an intense and rigorous year. The programme covers a wide range of academic concepts and expects a high level of engagement and performance. You will be exposed to key managerial aspects and other crucial areas of management education, such as sustainability, accountingstrategy, finance, and HR. A lot of learnings will also take place through discussions with your peers in the class and beyond.

Additionally, the programme is designed in a way that allows you to get as much out of it as you put into it. It depends significantly on your initiative and how proactive you are in taking advantage of the opportunities presented. Be ready to be at the top of your game academically, professionally, and personally. Engage fully in the internship, campus activities, and any other opportunities that come your way. If you do, you will find the experience highly rewarding.

What do you like about living in Denmark?

I admire how the society maintains and respects its identity. The Danish values are reflected in all aspects of life, from societal norms to economic practices. Denmark’s emphasis on sustainability is evident not just at the policy level but also in everyday life. This holistic approach to living and working sustainably is something I deeply respect and appreciate. It creates a unique environment where societal well-being and economic development go hand-in-hand.