In The Know by INSEAD

Episode #51 - Navigating Career Uncertainty: Introducing the INSEAD MATCH Framework

Applying for jobs has never been easier, but standing out in today’s global hiring market has never been more challenging.

In this episode, Christine Manipur, Associate Director of INSEAD MBA Product Marketing, speaks with Rhoda Yap, Executive Director of the INSEAD Career Development Centre, to explore how hiring decisions are really made in an increasingly competitive and AI-driven recruitment landscape. Together, they unpack the INSEAD MATCH Framework, a research-backed career strategy framework designed to help MBA students, professionals and career switchers make more intentional and effective career moves.

Whether you are pursuing a career pivot, exploring international job opportunities, navigating MBA recruitment or adapting to changing hiring trends, this conversation offers practical insights into how employers assess talent, leadership potential and market fit in today’s evolving global economy.

 

Key insights include:

• The signalling paradox: Why AI-generated resumes create hiring "noise" and how professionals can use AI tools strategically for augmentation rather than delegation
• The INSEAD MATCH Framework: A breakdown of the five pillars shaping modern career strategy: Mobility, Adaptability, Total Rewards & Culture, Competitive Positioning and Hiring Windows
• Agile career execution: Why successful career pivots require adaptability, self-awareness and the ability to respond to changing market realities
• How MBA students and professionals can move beyond being "career tourists" and navigate a rapidly evolving global job market

Episode Timestamps

0:00 - Introduction: Welcome to In The Know by INSEAD
0:25 - Meet Rhoda Yap: From law and consulting to the Career Development Centre
2:25 - The "oracle of careers" myth: Why self-mastery is the core of career progress
3:41 - The reality of modern transitions: Shooting a moving target while riding a horse
4:31 - The AI "noise" problem: How Gen AI has lowered application costs but complicated hiring
5:50 - Signalling: Why the best candidate doesn't always get the job
7:24 - Introducing the INSEAD MATCH framework
8:42 - Navigating mobility and work authorisation in a shifting geopolitical landscape
10:41 - Beyond the "volume game": Using AI for strategic research and sector credibility
15:32 - Breaking down the MATCH framework: From adaptability to competitive positioning
22:09 - The power of storytelling: How to communicate signals that matter to employers
22:50 - The Hiring Window: Understanding timing, alignment and market realities
26:07 - Using the framework if you feel "stuck"
27:32 - Human vs algorithm: Why you shouldn't surrender career ownership to technology
28:44 - Advice for prospective students: Reflection before the big investment

Episode #50 - Redefining Executive Education: Inside the New INSEAD Global Executive MBA Flex

How is INSEAD reshaping executive education for a world where senior leaders need both global exposure and greater flexibility?

In this episode of In The Know, we speak with Anne Bresman, Senior Director for Degree programmes, and Daniella Wagner, Director of Recruitment and Business Development for Executive MBAs. Together, they break down how the GEMBA Flex format blends in-person learning with virtual and asynchronous components, creating a pathway for high-potential executives who previously could not commit to a fully in-person programme.

Timestamps

0:00 – Introduction and episode overview

1:25 – Who the GEMBA is for

1:41 – Global structure across three regions and Flex

2:51 – Cohort diversity and participant profile

3:36 – What candidates seek in an Executive MBA

4:45 – Global campuses and formats for busy executives

7:59 – One global cohort: electives and networking

10:43 – Choosing your section and planning mobility

13:08 – Why INSEAD created GEMBA Flex

15:20 – How GEMBA Flex works in practice

18:54 – Flex benefits, time on campus and participant stories

21:06 – Anne’s advice for prospective GEMBA participants

25:43 – Navigating the admissions process

28:05 – Ideal candidate profiles and support from the recruitment team

Episode #49 - From Europe to China: Lessons in Global Leadership with TIEMBA

In this episode, In The Know explores the journey of Frauke Steiner, Partner and Head of the German Business Network at EY USA. She shares what it takes to move from Europe to China and beyond, navigating cultural differences, leadership expectations, and evolving global markets. Discover how the Tsinghua–INSEAD Executive MBA shaped her approach to leading across borders and building meaningful business relationships.

“ I am very proud of our strong partnership with Tsinghua SEM. Together, we have built a truly global programme that not only prepares executives to lead across borders but also fosters a deep understanding of business in both the East and the West. ”

– Professor Francisco Veloso, Dean of INSEAD

 

Timestamps
0:00 - Setting the Scene: From Europe to China and Beyond
1:12 - Discovering Purpose in Auditing and Leadership
3:44 – Climbing the Ladder: Lessons from EY Germany
6:20 – Taking the Leap: Moving to Beijing
8:24 – Why China? Choosing Growth over Comfort
11:00 – First Impressions of China: Culture, Scale and Surprise
14:09 – Bridging Cultures: Leadership Lessons from East and West
19:39 – Rethinking China: Myths, Markets and Mindsets
25:09 – Inside China’s Work Ethic: Collaboration Without Pause
28:04 – A New Chapter: From Beijing to New York

 

Episode #48 - How the INSEAD MBA Fuels Entrepreneurship: Rani Khodijah’s Journey

What does it take to build a business that survives crisis, reinvention, and growth — all while pursuing an MBA and raising a family?

In this episode of In The Know, host Danny Xue speaks with Rani Khodijah (MBA ’25D), entrepreneur and founding partner of Ambiz. From selling handmade goods as a child to leading a consulting firm today, Rani shares how her entrepreneurial spirit has shaped every stage of her journey. She reflects on the realities of scaling a company, navigating near-bankruptcy, and transforming setbacks into opportunities for renewal.

Learn more about how the INSEAD MBA can support your entrepreneurship goals.

Rani also reveals how the INSEAD MBA is helping her strengthen governance, sharpen her leadership, and scale with purpose across markets. Her story is a candid look at what it means to build with resilience and lead with heart — proving that entrepreneurship is as much about people and purpose as it is about growth.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Introduction
02:00 Early sparks of entrepreneurship
08:26 Start of Rani's company Ambiz
11:56 Facing bankruptcy as an entrepreneur
15:06 Managing employee health as a business owner
18:40 Job fulfilment and performance levels
19:15 Rani's goals for Indonesia and South East Asia
21:06 Managing work and studies as an INSEAD MBA student
25:25 Why INSEAD
26:50 Advice to INSEAD MBA prospects
30:49 Motivating factors
32:58 Managing family when doing the INSEAD MBA
35:08 AI as a business tool 

Episode #47 - AI and the Future of Work: INSEAD Alumni Leading the Transformation

Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries, careers, and organisations, and INSEAD alumni are at the forefront of this transformation. In this episode of In The Know, moderator Pankaj Kumar speaks with two experts driving AI strategy and innovation. Kevin Pereira (MBA ’14D) is Managing Director at Blu, where he advises global firms on AI consulting and education. Asan Hu, (MBA'25J) is an AI Product Manager at Alpheya and a former TikTok product strategist, building AI-powered solutions for the future of wealth management.

They share authoritative perspectives on:

• How leaders can cut through the hype and integrate AI responsibly into business models
• Why successful adoption depends on mindset, education, and change management
• The evolution of work, from task automation to the creation of new roles
• The critical skills business leaders must prioritise, including continuous learning, critical thinking, and storytelling
• This conversation positions AI as an urgent opportunity for executives and organisations today, with insights that connect strategy, product innovation, and leadership.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction
02:10 - Breaking down fear and confusion around AI adoption
08:11 - The changing role of product managers in an AI-first world
11:35 - How organisations should identify the right use cases for AI
16:28 - Job evolution versus job creation and the future of skills
20:41 - Wealth management and fintech: balancing AI and human judgment
23:35 - How different industries use AI
32:33 - INSEAD MBA reflections and how education adapts to AI
43:09 - AI and the human touch

Learn more about the INSEAD MBA: insead.edu/mba

Episode #46 - INSEAD MIM Alumni: Career Outcomes from the First Class

In this episode of In The Know, we catch up with Stefano Pizzoli and Francesca Fitzgerald, two alumni from the pioneering INSEAD Master in Management (MIM) class that graduated in 2021.

Five years after starting their INSEAD journey, they share how the MIM shaped their careers, from launching a startup to consulting at BCG, and reflect on the personal growth and global opportunities they’ve gained. If you're wondering whether a Master in Management is worth it, their stories offer honest, inspiring answers. 

Timesteamps

• 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guests: Stefano and Francesca from INSEAD's pioneering MIM cohort

• 01:24 – Guests' introductions: Background and current roles at Celonis (Stefano) and BCG (Francesca)

• 02:25 – Why they chose to join the pioneering INSEAD MIM programme

• 05:35 – Stefano’s memorable experience applying to INSEAD

• 10:11 – Navigating the unexpected challenges of starting the programme during the COVID-19 pandemic

• 17:14 – Maintaining strong bonds with classmates post-graduation

• 21:44 – Stefano's global career journey in tech at Celonis

• 27:10 – Francesca's career path in consulting, across Portugal, the Middle East, and now New York City

• 33:44 – Stefano shares the entrepreneurial story behind his tomato sauce business

• 37:16 – Francesca highlights the unexpected benefits and personal growth from the INSEAD MIM experience

Episode #45 - The Professional Impact of the INSEAD MBA

In this episode hosted by Julio Suarez of the Marketing and Recruitment Department, we explore the long-term impact of the INSEAD MBA through the lens of leadership, personal growth, and global collaboration.

Our guest, MBA'19D Jacqueline Liao, reflects on how the INSEAD MBA programme and her experience with the Personal Leadership Development Programme (PLDP) shaped her communication style, leadership approach, and ability to thrive in diverse, international environments. From challenging assumptions to building lasting networks, she shares personal stories that bring the MBA journey to life.

We also discuss:

• What actually happens in the PLDP
• The benefits of an INSEAD MBA
• How the programme continues to shape life and career post graduation

Whether you're considering an MBA or are already part of the INSEAD community, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

 

Learn more about the INSEAD MBA: insead.edu/mba

Episode #44 - How the INSEAD Master in Management (MIM) Supports Your Entrepreneurship Journey

In this episode, we talk to Ahmad Sleiman, MIM'24, the founder of SPK Platforms. Ahmad shares how his transformative journey at the INSEAD Master in Management (MIM) programme has shaped his path as an entrepreneur.

He delves into the invaluable connections he made during his time at INSEAD, highlighting how the diverse network of peers and alumni has been a cornerstone of his success. Ahmad also sheds light on the INSEAD faculty and staff's pivotal role in supporting his entrepreneurial aspirations.

If you're curious about how a world-class business school can propel your entrepreneurial dreams, this episode is a must-listen!

Episode #43 - Beyond ROI: The real value of the INSEAD Executive MBA

Join guest host Antony Widjaja, Associate Director of Executive Degrees Programme Recruitment & Partnerships at INSEAD, as he sits down with current GEMBA participant Rachid Ouazizi to uncover the transformative impact of the INSEAD Executive MBA.

 

In this insightful conversation, they explore diverse approaches to funding the programme—whether through personal investment or securing employer support—and share valuable strategies for building a strong business case to gain company backing. They also discuss the unique challenges and rewards of the Executive MBA experience, offering a holistic view of the programme’s value that extends far beyond financial returns.

 

Tune in for practical advice and inspiration, whether you’re self-funding or seeking corporate assistance for this pivotal career investment.

Episode #42 - Pursuing Your MBA as a New Mother - Student Life Feature

In this episode of the In The Know Podcast, we delve into the unique challenges and triumphs of pursuing an MBA while managing the responsibilities of parenthood. Join us as we explore the journey of navigating the INSEAD MBA programme with a baby, from the initial decision to enrol, to overcoming major concerns and preparing for life in Fontainebleau. 

We’ll discuss the essential support systems and childcare challenges faced during the programme. Finally, we'll share insights on how the MBA experience can influence careers and offer valuable advice for future MBA parents. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative conversation that sheds light on this inspiring journey.

The guests:
Rola Awad (MBA’24J)
MBA'24J Rola Awad is a licensed pharmacist who leads a team of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to deliver community-based pharmacy and counselling services. Beyond her work in pharmacy, she is dedicated to enhancing her management and business skills. On a personal level, Rola enjoys organic gardening and supports community-based aid programmes.
Mazen Ferzley (24J MBA Partner)

Host:
Eva Laporte (Student Life Officer, INSEAD Degree Programmes)

Timestamps

1:10 - About the guests and reasons for applying to INSEAD?

2:32 – Deciding to pursue the INSEAD MBA with a baby

3:10 – Major concerns and preparation for the year in Fontainebleau

4:23 – Navigating the MBA, keys to making it work

6:28 – Support systems & childcare challenges during the MBA  

10:11 – Biggest challenges and how to overcome them

12:01 – Managing classes and breastfeeding

13:03 – The MBA experience and influence on careers

14:28 – Advice and tips for future MBA parents