Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

I'm Vivek, I’m from the vibrant city of Bangalore, India. I have over seven years of expertise as a legal specialist focused on business and human rights issues. I am currently based in Paris, and I provide guidance to companies on navigating complex matters concerning business and human rights.

What was your background before you decided to look for an MBA?

Before pursuing an MBA, I completed my undergraduate studies in law and pursued a master’s degree in international law and human rights at Leiden University in the Netherlands. My passion for creating a positive social impact motivated me to engage with an NGO based in the Netherlands. Within this role, I contributed to various projects aligned with the pursuit of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs). My work involved advocacy efforts with international organizations such as the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Additionally, I played a pivotal role in establishing and overseeing the NGO's inaugural business and human rights division.

“ESSEC's GMBA provided a unique opportunity to interact with individuals from different communities, each with distinct viewpoints, cultures, languages, and values.”

Why did you choose the GMBA at ESSEC?

In my search for a business school, finding alignment with my personal values and aspirations was key. I hold a deep commitment to sustainability and creating meaningful social impact. Among the different options, the GMBA program at ESSEC particularly resonated with me due to the institution's steadfast dedication to sustainability. The international atmosphere and the diverse community at the school were also important factors that influenced my decision.

What was your project when you entered the program?

Upon entering the program, I brought along a strong foundation of technical skills and extensive work experience in the realm of human rights. My primary goal was to improve this expertise by delving into the intricacies of the business landscape. I aimed to gain comprehensive insights and knowledge within the realm of business, empowering me to strategically position myself within the intersection of business and human rights.

What are the main skills that you acquired during the program?

I honed a diverse skill set throughout the program, but among the most valuable were those related to effective interpersonal engagement and managing divergent perspectives. ESSEC's GMBA provided a unique opportunity to interact with individuals from different communities, each with distinct viewpoints, cultures, languages, and values. While this rich diversity offered immense learning opportunities, it also presented challenges of potential misunderstandings and miscommunications—a reflection of the complexities in today's globalized work environments.

What is your current job position and how did the GMBA help you reach it?

I am the Senior Consultant for Business and Human Rights at Environmental Resources Management (ERM). ERM is the world’s largest pure play sustainability consultancy. I help companies to establish and execute their human rights due diligence processes. This involves identifying risks, implementing mitigation measures, and ensuring effective remediation when needed.

The GMBA program provided me with the essential skill set required to effectively engage with professionals in the industry, enhancing my networking abilities and enabling me to secure my desired position in the realm of business and human rights. Additionally, the program's emphasis on strategic thinking and global perspectives significantly bolstered my capability to navigate the intricate landscape of sustainability consulting.

“ The program's emphasis on strategic thinking and global perspectives significantly bolstered my capability to navigate the intricate landscape of sustainability consulting.”

What is your best memory of the program?

The MBA networking field trips is one my best memories of the program. It was an excellent opportunity for our cohort interact with business leaders from different companies, but also other ESSEC alumni based in different European business hubs. These trips helped forge connections with key business individuals, laying the foundation for crucial contacts that proved invaluable during the job search process.

Your experience at ESSEC in one word?

Fulfilling

Your advice to future applicants?

Embrace curiosity, immerse yourself in the program, actively connect with your classmates, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of the journey!

Want to know more about the Global MBA?

• Visit the program page
• Download the program brochure
• Talk about your project with a Program Advisor