At 27, Brazilian Alexandre Bratt has already had his own start-up company, trained for the Olympics (Tae Kwondo) and has been second in charge within the Shared Services Center of one of the largest Brazilian conglomerates – Camargo Correa.

“I learnt a lot from lack of experience in my internet start-up. My partner and I made some mistakes, but were breaking even when we decided to sell. I still had an entrepreneurial vein in me, but was in need of the more secure corporate world.” A sound decision, as over the last four years Alex grew to be the youngest senior manager in his company, and negotiated with his boss to sponsor his IMD MBA and develop his potential to go further.

“All the feedback I heard about IMD focused on the strength of leadership development - which was exactly what I was interested in. The extensive groupwork we do mirrors the work environment, but the learning experience and competitive environment is richer. Here you are working with a group of exceptional people, none of whom like to be told what to do and with no formal hierarchy, so it becomes more challenging than in real life.”

The past few months have also helped Alex to understand his key professional drivers. “I have had operational roles, but now want a position where I can influence strategy and the place I work in. I want to have the satisfaction of knowing that I could make a difference in a company and for people.”

His first career goal is to work in an international role for his company. “Aside from the professional advantage, I have always loved travelling and languages. Before coming to IMD I was studying Mandarin. I already knew Portuguese, Spanish, French and English, and wanted to learn something completely different. Now, I think I will also gain personally and professionally by further developing my inter-cultural understanding before returning to Brazil.”