Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics
Embrace business agility and drive change with the world's foremost Executive MBA in Shipping & Logistics (the Blue MBA). Designed for high-potential shipping professionals.
A unique industry needs a unique MBA
If recent events have taught us anything, it is that nothing is predictable. We need to work dynamically, strategically and be open to transformation. To remain competitive in a truly global industry you need to stay ahead of the curve and build a skillset that can overcome any challenges and uncover opportunities. Our Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics is designed specifically to give you unrivalled insight into an industry that is like no other.
From digitalisation to sustainability, to stay truly relevant in such a fast-paced industry it is no longer enough to just know how to get things done. You need a holistic appreciation, a bigger picture, a 21st century skillset that keeps you at the forefront of your industry. And, crucially, you need a network of life-minded executives around you, representing a wealth of different areas withing the sector.
NEXT INTAKE: SEPTEMBER 2027
Join the next class of talented executives.
WHY THE CBS BLUE MBA
World-class industry reputation
A holistic view of the shipping industry
Cutting-edge & competitive
Seize global opportunities
Tailor-made for shipping professionals
Inspiring leaders around the globe
“The Blue MBA formalised my thinking with strategic knowledge. There were things that I was doing before in a less formal way, but putting a structure around them helped me see the things I missed. The programme enabled me to think outside the box, considering different contexts and cultures while embracing new ideas.” Oya Aksoy
Owner/CEO, Aksoy Shipping, Class of 2025
Member of International Marine Purchasing Association (IMPA)
The Blue MBA and the Blue MBA Alumni Academy are part of a vibrant community of over 1000 shipowners, ship-managers, and leading maritime suppliers - dedicated to advancing continuous improvement and development of the industry.
IMPA offers a plethora of networking opportunities, resources, and insights that will enrich the learning journey and careers of the Blue MBA community. By joining the membership of IMPA, the programme gains access to additional knowledge and expertise, further enhancing its reputation as the world's foremost Executive MBA in Shipping & Logistics.
A unique holistic approach to shipping and logictics
The ideal education for shipping and logictics professionals
Meet our Blue MBA participants and learn about their desires to enhance their leadership skills, drive sustainable solutions, gain a holistic understanding of the industry, and much more.
Reach the top with the CBS Blue MBA
How has the Blue MBA helped senior and C-suite professionals from around the world reach the top? Discover the impact of the programme on their professional and personal development in this video.
The value of the network
Meet Blue MBA participants and hear their perspectives on the value of the programme's network and the unique opportunity to come together with professionals from across the globe.
A global industry, a worldwide network
The people of the Blue MBA
When you study at CBS, you will be choosing to study alongside industry professionals from a variety of job roles and locations. You will gain the benefit of different perspectives during discussions and debates and even better, you will build an unrivalled alumni network that we guarantee you will be turning to for support throughout the rest of your career.
The Blue MBA Alumni Association
The Blue MBA Alumni Association was established as a membership group for all graduates and current participant of the programme. It was set up to encourage networking between members and to be a link between the maritime industry and academia. But this alumni association is different from other networks to which you might belong, because all of the association's members have one thing in common: a similar mind-set about how to look at the many challenges faced in the shipping arena. When you join the CBS Blue MBA, you also join a lifelong and vast network of highly-skilled shipping and logistics professionals. This gives our participants the possibility to draw on each other, to inspire and navigate a complex and uncertain future well after graduation.
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The Blue MBA Ambassadors
Mattias Ottosson - USA
Currently serving as the HSE Delivery Manager at Noble Corp., Mattias is focused on developing long-term safety strategies anchored on Human Organisational Performance (HOP) and Safety II concepts, overseeing teams responsible for offshore rig operations, and is committed to driving sustainable and efficient practices in the shipping and oil & gas sectors.
“My mission is centered around driving purpose and performance while easily navigating ambiguity. I enjoy problem-solving and innovation, guided by a strong sense of integrity and respect for individuals. My aim is to create bridges between individuals and organisations to achieve common goals,” says Mattias Ottosson.
He’s Fluent in English, Scandinavian languages, and basic proficiency in German. Mattias recognises the value of the executive maritime programme and how it serves as a vehicle to necessary growth and change in the industry.
“The Blue MBA has provided me with a holistic education that has enhanced my leadership capabilities, strategic thinking skills, and understanding of complex sustainability issues. The education has undoubtedly contributed to my effectiveness as a professional in the maritime and oil & gas industries. I look forward to connecting with like-minded and ambitious professionals.”
Juan Carlos Pérez-Ferretti - Latin America
With extensive leadership experience in the shipping industry, Pérez-Ferretti has a proven track record in promising leadership strategy. His successes include digitalising and decarbonising the industry through a joint venture to develop AI tools for fleet optimisation. He is the CEO of Ultratank Shipping S.A. and a 2021 graduate of the Blue MBA. He has been appointed as a Blue MBA Ambassador for his solid expertise in the field and notoriety in the Latin American market.
Having completed the executive programme in 2021, Perez-Ferretti recognises the importance of lifelong learning, especially in the shipping and logistics industry: “The Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics, known for its world-class reputation, is designed to foster lifelong learning and equip participants with advanced skills essential for thriving as industry leaders throughout their careers. This programme offers a comprehensive perspective on the shipping sector, encompassing supply chain, logistics, finance, investment, maritime law, sustainability, management, and leadership. I am excited to connect with prospective candidates and contribute to raising the profile of the Blue MBA in Latin America.”
Napo Ramodibedi - Africa
With a proven track record as a strategic leader and logistics expert, Napo Ramodibedi has excelled as a Founder and Executive Chairman developing executive strategy, business development, and contract negotiation skills. Prior to this, his background encompasses Shipping Law, focusing on maritime and admiralty law, shipping litigation, and marine insurance.
"I am thrilled to assume the role of Ambassador for the Blue MBA Programme, representing Africa. With a background deeply rooted in rail, oil and gas, vessel operations, and logistics, as well as extensive expertise in maritime law spanning salvage, ship finance, and vessel registration, I am eager to connect with like-minded professionals who are considering the Blue MBA education. The implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, creates an opportunity for new trading patterns and therefore new logistics requirements, throughout Africa. I am excited about the opportunity to unlock collaboration throughout the Blue MBA network, in accessing these opportunities.” says Ramodibedi.
Napo Ramodibedi completed his Executive MBA in Shipping & Logistics at Copenhagen Business School in 2021 and has also received specialised training in leadership and management. Fluent in multiple languages, Ramodibedi brings a unique perspective and deep understanding of high-level leadership and maritime law to his role as ambassador.
Dorte Thuesen Christensen - Nordic Countries
Dorte is currently the Vice President of Operations & Claims at Hafnia, Dorte has a wealth of experience managing the operations of over 200 vessels across various product and chemical tanker pools. Her global responsibility ensures top-quality service for customers, whether pool partners or charterers.
Dorte has been part of the management teams of several global shipping companies, allowing her to navigate various opportunities and challenges, such as international leadership in a global organisation, mergers and acquisitions, stakeholder management, turnaround strategies, and relationship-building across borders and cultures.
Dorte’s philosophy on leadership centres on teamwork, responsibility, and personal growth. She believes in empowering her team through delegation and challenge, fostering individual and collective development. Her extensive knowledge within the tanker industry, gained from international experience international experience and roles in chartering, supply chain and operations makes her a great fit as the Nordic ambassador.
“We are living in a new world that is quickly evolving into an era where developments in skillset and mindset is imperative in any leadership position. The Blue MBA provides a unique opportunity to grow and unlock leadership potential through a comprehensive curriculum relevant to not only to the maritime industry, but to the broader global landscape.”
Lars Hoffman - Mediterranean
With an extensive career spanning over 30 years in the field, Lars Hoffmann has worked in various logistics businesses across different sectors, primarily focusing on moving cargo. He is currently based in Istanbul as the Vice President and Head of Business Unit Mediterranean at DFDS and a graduate of the Blue MBA class of 2023.
Lars has been appointed as the Blue MBA Ambassador for his focus on the importance of continued learning and embracing innovation in the shipping and logistics industry.
Elnur Abdullayev - Middle East
With over 20 years of extensive experience across the marine and oil & gas industries, Elnur Abdullayev is a highly skilled Electronics, Electrical, and Instrumentation Specialist who blends deep technical expertise with strong managerial leadership. His career spans multiple international locations, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Turkey, and the Middle East, where he has built a reputation for delivering high-quality solutions in demanding operational environments.
Beyond his technical mastery of automation and control systems, Elnur also has extensive knowledge of radio communications and marine navigation systems. He has been one of the key drivers in the expansion of Marintel, playing a vital role in establishing and strengthening the company’s presence in the Middle East. Known for his supportive leadership style, he excels at managing multi-disciplinary teams and ensuring that complex projects are completed with a focus on reliability, efficiency, and industry compliance. By balancing hands-on troubleshooting with strategic oversight, Elnur consistently bridges the gap between technical excellence and operational growth.
On being appointed as a Blue MBA Ambassador in the Middle East, Mr. Abdullayev says: “Becoming an ambassador for the Blue MBA programme is a tremendous honour. Having spent more than 20 years working across the marine and energy sectors, I have seen firsthand how rapidly the industry is evolving and how crucial strong, globally minded leadership has become. This programme equips professionals with the strategic thinking and perspective needed to navigate that change. I am proud to support an MBA that not only strengthens industry capabilities but also inspires future leaders to drive innovation, and contribute to a more sustainable future in the shipping and logistics industry.”
Mr. Abdullayev is currently the CTO of Marintel Group of Companies, Dubai, UAE and a graduate of the Blue MBA class of 2023.
Saunak Rai - Liaison Officer, Blue MBA/International Charter of Shipbrokers
Mr. Saunak Rai is heading “FueLNG”, a Joint venture of Shell and Keppel, a LNG bunkering company providing LNG as bunkers to customers through truck to ship and ship to ship operations, as well as carrying out LNG distribution to industry in Singapore. Mr. Saunak Rai is also the Deputy Chairman of the National Technical Committee for LNG Bunkering in Singapore.
Mr. Saunak Rai graduated with President’s Gold Medal in Nautical Science from Mumbai University and has completed his Master’s in Business Administration from Copenhagen Business School, Denmark. Mr. Saunak Rai is a licensed Master Mariner and has extensive experience working on LNG vessels, Tankers, Bulk Carriers and Container vessels He is also a certified Chartered Ship Broker and Fellow and Executive Committee Member of the “Institute of Chartered Ship Brokers”. Saunak is also Singapore Ambassador of Copenhagen Business School.
“Our ambitious goal is to help the industry actively identify, groom and recruit the next generation of shipping leaders and build a vibrant and creative business community. ” Irene Rosberg
Programme Director, The Blue MBA
Be inspired by Blue MBA stories.
Discover the programme through participant and alumni testimonials, key insights from professors and partners, and helpful information from the Programme Director.
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Building a global future
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"A profound transformation journey ahead”
Historically the shipping industry has been regarded as highly conservative. Changemaker, Ioanna Prassou, a Blue MBA graduate, is pushing the envelope to keep…
"The Blue MBA is accessible for people in my region"
Mozambique-based Amado Mabasso took the CBS Blue MBA – despite the distance – to get more involved in the shipping and logistics industry and specify his knowledge.
Triple crown of accreditations: AMBA, EQUIS & AACSB
AN MBA LIKE NO OTHER
Programme overview
We understand that global shipping and logistics professionals lead particular busy lives. The programme is designed to provide flexibility through short intensive modules with regular intervals. This enables global participants to take part in residential modules and work online in between, while attending their daily business.
You will study alongside professionals from a variety of countries and a wide range of functions, who represent different segemnts of the shipping industry - besides diversity in class and energy in discussions, this will help you build a valuable worldwide network to leverage for the rest of your career.
Programme structure
The Executive MBA is Shipping and Logistics is designed to address the challenges and developments in the maritime industry. The subjects chosen and the currency of the content covered will allow you to develop a holistic view of the industry. And not only that, the enviable skillset that you'll hone will be second to none to meet the ever-evolving challenges facing industry professionals both now and in the future.
The programme consists of eight modules, each of which is followed by an individual assignment, plus a final integrated strategy project (ISP); which constitute the final master thesis.
A modular programme, designed for the experienced professional
Understanding the industry
Module 1 provides you with a basic understanding of the shipping industry, focusing on the role of the sector in the global economy and giving you an introduction to shipping economics.
Understanding the global environment
Modules 2 & 3 will give you a background for understanding how the world economy works, covering the drivers for globalisation, trade patterns, supply chain management and the logistical implications of this development.
Focus on maritime issues
In modules 4 & 5 you will devote yourself to the industry-specific issues such as maritime law, ship knowledge and technical operational management. The modules also incorporate the important aspect of information and communication technology development.
Core management issues
In modules 6, 7 & 8 you will focus on the central topics of business management, taking in investment analysis, finance and risk management, organisational theory and company strategy.
The integrated strategy project
The Integrated Strategy Project (ISP) concludes the programme and consists of a three-step process, with an oral presentation at the end of each. This final presentation serves, as your oral defence of the ISP thesis.
Leadership and your leadership development
As an integrated part of the programme, our leadership development modules will enable you to build on your existing leadership skills, through practical experiences and reflexive exercises.
Module content and location
Pre-MBA (optional)
Module 00: Accounting and International Economics, 09-11 September 2027, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Shipping as a Business and a Market
Module 01: Shipping as a Business and a Market + Leadership, 13-18 September 2027, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Understanding the global environment
Module 02: Supply Chain Management - New Logistical Challenges, 06-10 December 2027, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Module 03: International Economics and Market Analysis + Leadership, 21-25 February 2028, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Focus on Maritime issues
Module 04: (A) Ship Design (B) The Maritime Legal Framework, 08-12 May 2028, in Hamburg Germany
Module 05: Operational Management and Information Technology + Leadership, 03-08 July 2028, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Core management issues
Module 06: Investment Analysis, Risk Management and Finance, 18-22 September 2028, in Athens, Greece
Module 07: (A) International Marketing (B) Organisation, 20-24 November 2028, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Module 08: Managing Strategy and Change, 22-26 January 2028, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Integrated strategy project (ISP/thesis)
Presentation of Industry Analysis, 26-27 March 2029, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Presentation of Company and Issue Analysis, 04-05 June 2029, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Presentation of the ISP with Implementation Plan (Oral Defence), 15-16 August 2029, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Graduation
Graduation, 18 August 2029, in Copenhagen, Denmark
Module 1
Module 2
Module 3
Module 4
Module 5
Module 6
Module 7
Module 8
Integrated Leadership
Integrated Strategy Project
“The Blue MBA provides great insight into essential aspects of the shipping and logistics industry. It gives an insightful overview of the industry and delves deeply into fundamentals like the key drivers, opportunities and risks for the various players in the industry. With world-class teaching staff and senior participants from many parts of the industry, it is a dynamic learning experience coupling theory and practice in interaction.” Bo Cerup-Simonsen
Chief Executive Officer at Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, Blue MBA Class of 2019
What to expect at the end of the programme
New knowledge
You will be competitive for the international job market as you will have received relevant and rigorous (= research based) insight and knowledge provided by academic faculty in cooperation with high level executives. In the programme, interdisciplinary knowhow is transferred through workshops, seminars and the interdisciplinary project – combining shipping, law, economics, operations/supply chain management, marketing, organisation and finance. You will acquire content knowledge as well as social knowledge through the diversity in faculty and class composition.
New skills
You will possess the theories, methods, tools needed to understand the whole complexity of the industry. You will also further your social skills by coaching techniques, negotiation skills, conflict resolution and interpersonal communication training.
New competences
You will be able to apply the set of theories, methods and tools and you will be able to solve strategic, tactical and operative problems covering the whole range of shipping related issues. You will also be able to apply social skills to demonstrate leadership.
A triple-accredited education, valuable across the globe
CBS is among the one percent of business schools in the world holding the sought-after triple-accreditation: AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS. Through this international and broad recognition of the quality of the school and the CBS Executive MBA in Shipping and Logistics programme, you can be certain that they are getting the best business education. In addition, the programme is also accredited by ACE and PIMS in Denmark.
*CREDITS: The Blue MBA has 60 ECTS points
Learn from international experts: Faculty & Teaching
Lectures are delivered by a group of leading world-renowned experts from different areas of the maritime industry all over the world.
We pride ourselves on the quality of our teaching staff, selecting only those who we know can combine the practical aspects of life in the industry with the theoretical models that sit behind. Our lecturers and participants enjoy a mutual respect as experts within their own field, and that is a vital part of the dynamic classroom discussions.
Both the CBS resident faculty and the external faculty are among the group of experts who are highly in demand as advisors and consultants to maritime institutions, companies and governments. In addition to their excellent teaching skills and methods, they help our students build an international network of contacts. Here are few of our professors and lecturers - click on their names to find out more.
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Outstanding facilities in the heart of Copenhagen
CBS is a modern university with its main campus located in modern buildings in Frederiksberg, close to the heart of Copenhagen. The Executive MBA programmes are housed at Råvarebygningen previously the raw materials storage building in Porcelænshaven (The Porcelain Garden), an area formerly occupied by Royal Copenhagen Porcelain. This building has now been imaginatively converted into a competition-winning design by Henning Larsen Architects.
CBS Library
The CBS Library, which is also Denmark's National Library for Business Economics and contains the most comprehensive catalogue of books on all aspects of organisational and business life in Denmark. With more than 300,000 volumes and access to more than 5,000 electronic journals and publications, it is the only place in Denmark where Executive MBA participants can enjoy the level of access to up-to-date knowledge and business research. The CBS Online Library is continuously being improved in order to integrate e-resources with the traditional library collection, so that staff and students have easy access to all e-resources both on and off campus.
Life at CBS
The CBS campus covers a big part of Frederiksberg with research and teaching facilities at Solbjerg Plads, Dalgas Have, Kilen (The Wedge), Howitzvej and Porcelænshaven. Each facility has a unique architectural style and atmosphere that contributes to making CBS a special place. As an Executive MBA participant based at Porcelænshaven you will have opportunities to visit most of the sites on campus. In each of the buildings you will find computer facilities, rooms for group work and cafes. The Campus Facilities page provides more information on the facilities and amenities available. As an Executive MBA participant and alumnus you will get access to exclusive MBA events, where you will be given the opportunity to hear some of the leading lecturers on various business subjects. The themes of the events varies and we try to make them as diversified as possible to meet your needs and get you inspired.
CBS Maritime
CBS Maritime was launched in early 2013 and aims to coordinate the maritime activities and competencies at CBS and develop maritime research and teaching in close association with the business community. With CBS Maritime, the Blue MBA and the CBS maritime research have become closer connected. The concentration of maritime expertise across CBS maritime study programmes and courses as well as research environment will be of benefit for all participants.
“The Blue MBA provides the perfect platform for me to increase my executive management skills within a global industry. I get to fuse my technical skills and knowledge with the strategic side of the business which gives me a unique 360 perspective. ” Charlotte Rojgaard
Global Head of Marine Fuel Services at Bureau Veritas, VeriFuel, Blue MBA Class of 2021
Questions?
NEXT INTAKE: SEPTEMBER 2027
The application deadline is 15th of August 2027.
APPLICATION & FEES
How to apply
The Blue MBA Admissions Board meets every week, and applications are reviewed on a continuous basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as you have made your decision.
To apply, you need to send in two forms:
- Application Form
- Recommendation Form
Please contact Programme Director Irene Rosberg at ir.ee@cbs.dk to receive the forms.
All application forms together with relevant documents, as well as queries for further information, should be directed to Programme Director Irene Rosberg at ir.ee@cbs.dk
Financing your Blue MBA
About 60% of all the participants in the Executive MBA Shipping & Logistics Programme are sponsored by their employers.
The tuition fee of the programme is DKK 350,000 (Danish Kroner) – or approx. EUR 47,000 - to be paid in four installments at the beginning of each semester.
1. DKK 90,000 – September 2027 (DKK 30,000 non-refundable registration fee and 60,000 based on an agreement after receipt of the acceptance letter)
2. DKK 90,000 – March 2028
3. DKK 85,000 – September 2028
4. DKK 85,000 – March 2029
Non-EU participants must pay an additional admissions fee of approx. DKK 17,400. This fee does not include course material, travel and accommodation costs.
The Danish Maritime Fund
The Danish Maritime Fund supports initiatives that serve to develop the Danish maritime industry, and as an Executive MBA participant working in the industry, you may be eligible for funding. Learn more on their website.
Questions?
CONNECT WITH US
Book a meeting
Meet us face-to-face: visit our modern campus in Copenhagen, and ask any and all questions.
Meet us online: Can’t get to us? No problem, we are available to arrange a virtual face-to face meeting instead.
Meet us on home turf: We travel to attend trade shows, conferences and modules located around the globe. Take the opportunity to meet with us on the road and learn more about the Blue MBA, the unique senior executive network you will gain access to and how the learning experience could propel your career to the next level. Reach out to our Programme Director, for upcoming opportunities.
Profile Assessment
Before you begin the detailed process of applying, you may want to know if the programme is right for you. We are available to help with this critical step.
Please send your resume to the Programme Director, and she will set up a meeting to evaluate your profile beforehand and make recommendations, as well as discuss any questions and concerns.
For any of the requests, please contact Programme Director, Irene Rosberg directly:
E: ir.ee@cbs.dk
T: +45 3815 6007
THE BLUE MBA ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
This Alumni Association is a hub for alumni-related events happening around the globe and where you can reconnect with your peers or expand your network with other like-minded shipping professionals. Most importantly, the network serves as a database, allowing you to search for and find other CBS Blue MBA alumni within specific segments or with a specific area of expertise.
