In celebration of Earth Day, we examine the career impact of an MBA on two of our alumni who work in fields closely tied to sustainability.
Olga Ponomareva,
ESG Marketing Director
Fitch Solutions (London)
Nino Cholokashvili,
Head of Advisory/Eurasia ESG Lead
PricewaterhouseCoopers Georgia
How has your MBA experience contributed to your career advancement and goals in the field of CSR/ESG?
Olga: The MBA has been instrumental in advancing my career in the ESG domain. The program, with its emphasis on ethical decision-making and stakeholder analysis, has been a source of inspiration, reinforcing the importance of integrating ESG principles into core business strategies. Exposure to diverse perspectives and a focus on innovation has helped me appreciate the ESG challenges businesses face and has assisted in my career at Sustainable Fitch, laying the groundwork for promoting the benefits of our offerings to the global fixed income industry.
Nino: In my MBA program, my final management project centered on green finance, specifically exploring its significance in driving private sector involvement in addressing climate change. This research deeply influenced my career focus, leading me to prioritize green financing initiatives. I have played a role in introducing the green taxonomy in Georgia, and I'm currently assisting the Government of Uzbekistan in developing their sustainable taxonomy. I am actively focused on guiding banks on ESG strategy and green products, and supporting private sector engagement in green financing across the Eurasia region.
What elements of the MBA program help to cultivate a stronger focus on ESG/CSR for future leaders?
Olga: The MBA provides a robust framework for understanding business operations in relation to societal and environmental concerns. By incorporating case studies that illuminate the considerations of ESG/CSR strategies and the challenges associated with implementing them, my MBA program provided practical insights and encouraged critical thinking.
Nino: While countries globally uphold commitments, a major challenge persists: engaging the private sector in actively implementing ESG targets. An MBA program that emphasizes raising awareness of ESG's importance and displays the benefits for the private sector can be a significant contributor to this effort.
What advice to you give to MBA students passionate about ESG/CSR?
Olga: Prepare for a journey filled with challenges and setbacks. Driving meaningful change is not easy; there will be moments of frustration and doubt. Yet, staying resilient is crucial as each challenge brings an opportunity to learn and grow. Creating sustainable impact takes time. Stay focused on long-term objectives and celebrate small victories. With tenacity and commitment to your values, you can make a significant impact.
Nino: Find individuals who share your passion and seize every opportunity to learn. In today's competitive world, those with similar interests are motivated to bolster one another toward a common goal.
Read more from Nino Cholokashvili and Olga Ponomareva!
Empowering Voices: Insights from Two Accomplished GEM MBA Alumni on International Women's Day
Grenoble Ecole de Management is proud to offer diverse scholarship opportunities to our MBA candidates.
A unique 50% scholarship may be awarded to MBA candidates thanks to the participation of our dedicated Research Chair in Inclusive Sustainability.
- MBA
- Sustainability
