Knowing the Importance of Leading with Purpose

Did you originally want to pursue a different career? If so, what made you change your plans?

Early on, my path wasn’t fully defined, but I was drawn to international finance, curious to explore its impact. Joining the Ministry of Finance let me see firsthand how policy and collaboration could shape our world. Over time, each new role showed me that this field aligned with my values of service and growth, guiding me deeper into the journey. I stayed open to new opportunities, discovering along the way that finance was not only a career but a powerful platform to make a difference.

What was your biggest professional/personal success?

I feel that success has many faces, and each has taught me something meaningful. For me, success isn’t just a single achievement but a series of meaningful contributions. One of the most fulfilling personal successes came from volunteering to teach English at an orphanage in Bangui, where I also worked to address the children’s needs. Helping them grow and being part of their journey gave me a sense of purpose beyond any professional role.

Professionally, one highlight was representing the European Commission in the G20 infrastructure investments group, where I advocated, together with other representatives, for using blended finance to close the infrastructure gap - an approach that’s now widely adopted. In the Central African Republic, I helped initiate a sustainable agricultural project, pushing for a new sector with potential for lasting impact.

Each of these moments, in its own way, taught me the importance of leading with purpose and empathy.

What was your biggest challenge? What was your biggest professional mistake (from which you learned a lot)?

The toughest challenge was returning to the Romanian government after working abroad, where I had grown accustomed to a more structured and open environment. Adjusting back to the local mindset and bureaucracy was harder than expected, and I initially underestimated the challenges involved. It was a humbling lesson in patience and adaptability. I learned that with every transition, empathy is key - understanding different perspectives and meeting people where they are makes all the difference. I carry these lessons forward, knowing each experience brings valuable growth.

Which 3 most important experiences in your life have led you to where you are right now?

First, my experience in the Central African Republic taught me the importance of flexibility and hope in the face of big challenges. Then, working for the European Commission instilled in me the power of good policy to impact people’s lives. And finally, the Executive MBA has offered me a space to blend these experiences into a leadership approach that balances heart with strategy. These moments have brought me here, each with lessons that I draw on every day.

When you think of the most talented high potential in your company, what 3 pieces of advice would you give him/her to live a successful and fulfilling life?

• Stay Curious: Let your curiosity guide you toward new paths and unexpected discoveries.
• Adapt and Evolve: Embrace change as it comes, knowing each new challenge brings growth.
• Lead with Kindness: At the end of the day, compassion creates stronger, more fulfilling connections.

Using just 5 words, how would your team describe you as a leader?

Honest, collaborative, creative, empathic, disruptive.

What has changed in your career because of your MBA degree? How did the program support you in reaching your career goals? What concrete career opportunities have opened up for you?

The EMBA has truly reshaped my career and professional network. Beyond gaining new insights into leadership and sustainability, I’ve connected with inspiring individuals who share a drive for impact. Organizing events and contributing professional speakers from my own network to some of our modules added another layer of engagement, allowing me to create unique learning experiences for my peers. These experiences not only strengthened my leadership skills but also opened doors to new opportunities, such as launching an NGO and taking on more strategic roles. The EMBA has enriched my career with both knowledge and a community of like-minded leaders.

As far as the workload is concerned, how did you manage an MBA next to a demanding job and potentially your family life?

Balancing the demands of an MBA with my challenging job and multiple professional commitments has required a great deal of planning and flexibility. While I don’t have family obligations, my workload is far from simple. Frequent travel, delegations, and various responsibilities mean my schedule is always full, leaving little room for study. To manage it all, I developed a disciplined routine, dedicating specific hours to coursework and project work. Time management tools have been essential, as well as knowing when to delegate tasks and prioritize effectively. This approach has allowed me to stay organized, ensuring I could integrate the EMBA into my already demanding career without compromising my responsibilities or my learning.

What do you consider a “great luxury”?

To me, a great luxury is time spent with close friends and loved ones. My career keeps me constantly on the move, often juggling travel and professional commitments. Yet, finding moments to connect with those who truly understand and support me is a rare and cherished experience. These friendships offer a grounding presence, a sense of warmth, and the freedom to be myself without judgment. Quality time with family and friends, brings a balance that no material possession can match.

What was the last book/movie you really enjoyed?

I’m currently diving into two fascinating books: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius and The 5 Basic Laws of Human Stupidity by Carlo Cipolla. Meditations is such a grounding read, offering timeless reflections that resonate, especially during hectic days. Cipolla’s book, though more lighthearted, has been an eye-opener - it’s funny but also incredibly insightful about human nature, and I find myself laughing and nodding along.

This past weekend, I also treated myself to a Netflix binge of The Diplomat. It’s a gripping series that mixes diplomacy, personal drama, and suspense in a way that feels so relevant to my own professional world.

If you could change places with anyone for a day, who would it be?

If I could change places with anyone for a day, honestly, I’d still choose to be myself. While there are always challenges and constraints in my life, each experience has shaped who I am and given me unique insights and strengths. I value the journey I’m on, even with its ups and downs, because it feels authentic and deeply personal.

What made you consider opening an art gallery?

I haven’t opened an art gallery - at least, not yet, but I’ve had the pleasure of participating with my artwork in some art exhibits. Creating art brings me a sense of joy and freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere, especially when I’m genuinely proud of the result. Art has a way of capturing emotion and ideas that words sometimes can’t. One day, I could imagine sharing that passion with others by creating a space where art can be celebrated and appreciated. Exhibiting my art is a way to bring people together around creativity and expression, sharing the joy that art brings me with a broader audience.

What can you tell us about the position that art takes in your life?

It’s a way to express what might not be easily put into words and to share perspectives that enrich my interactions with others. This connection to art complements other aspects of my life, making it a deeply fulfilling and integral part of my journey.

Read more interesting career stories of our students and graduates here.

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