Building bridges in Tokyo: ESMT’s Part-time MBA International Field Seminar 2024 

A group photo of PTMBA students at Bosch during the IFS in Tokyo

“Exploring the vibrant city of Tokyo with all its differences from Germany provided a lot to take in and reflect upon. Japan is a culture that beautifully balances modernity and tradition.”

Caroline V., Part-time MBA student at ESMT Berlin

Street view of sunset in Tokyo

At ESMT Berlin, we believe in providing our students with opportunities that transcend traditional classroom learning. Our Part-time MBA program is designed to fit around your busy schedule while offering practical and international experiences that propel your career forward. 

An integral part of the program is the International Field Seminar (IFS), offering a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insights into global business environments. This year, we took our Part-time MBA students to Tokyo, Japan, a city renowned for its innovation, technology, and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights of the Tokyo International Field Seminar 

“It was refreshing to engage directly with leaders about the uniqueness of running (international) businesses in Japan, including digital transformation, supply chain issues, BCM, sustainability, the importance of boardroom diversity.”

John Agunbiade, Part-time MBA student at ESMT Berlin

The Tokyo seminar included visits to leading Japanese corporations, interactive workshops, and networking events with business executives and ESMT alumni based in Japan. Our part-time MBA students explored various industries, gaining a comprehensive understanding of Japan’s business landscape—from robotics to fashion and from insurance to medical technology.

A group photo of PTMBA students at Hugo Boss and Taito in Tokyo

Academic insights: The seminar kicked off at Japan’s leading business school, Hitotsubashi ICS (Hitotsubashi University Business School), offering insights into national business strategies. 

Company visits: Students observed cutting-edge technologies and innovative business practices at renowned companies like Yakult Honsha Co., Ltd., BMW Group, Accenture Song, and HUGO BOSS.

Networking opportunities: Interactions with local business leaders and faces behind highly successful foreign businesses in Japan, enabled students to build a truly global professional network. 

Cultural immersion: Beyond business, the seminar offered cultural experiences and fun extracurricular activities such as hiking to the summit of Mount Takao for an incredible view of Mount Fuji.

A group photo of PTMBA students during dinner in Tokyo

“We enjoyed a lively gathering with ICS MBA students, which helped broaden our network and share diverse thoughts and experiences.

I’m hopeful we’ll continue to foster and strengthen this relationship as well as with other business schools around the globe.”

Marco Rafailovic, Part-time MBA student at ESMT Berlin

The Tokyo IFS exemplifies our commitment to providing a holistic business education that combines academic rigor with practical experiences. The seminar equipped students to navigate the complexities of global business, fostering their growth as innovative and responsible leaders. 

Start your Part-time MBA journey at ESMT 

A group photo of PTMBA students at Bosch during the IFS in Tokyo

Are you looking to advance your career without pausing your professional commitment? Click here to learn more about the Part-time MBA program at ESMT. 

Embrace the opportunity to gain global perspectives, expand your network, and develop the skills to lead in today’s business landscape.