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Explore your next leadership chapter

Senior professionals often reach a point where the next career step becomes less obvious. A broader role, a shift in industry, or a move into general management may appear logical on paper. In practice, these transitions are rarely straightforward.

The Executive MBA Leadership Conversations in Amsterdam (Koninklijke Industrieele Groote Club, Dam 27, 1012 JS Amsterdam) offer an opportunity to explore these questions in a thoughtful and open environment.

Hosted by Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM), this event brings together experienced professionals who want to reflect on leadership development, career transitions, and long-term professional positioning.

Rather than a traditional programme presentation, the evening is designed as a candid discussion about leadership realities and the dynamics behind career pivots.

Agenda

18.00 - 18.30
Arrival and informal drinks

Arrive, settle in, and connect with fellow professionals before the programme begins.

18.30 - 18.50
Brief keynote by Erik Roelofsen

Why career pivots often fail in a world built for specialists

In this thought-provoking keynote, Erik Roelofsen explores why many experienced professionals struggle to transition into new leadership roles or industries.

Key insights include:

  • Structural patterns behind stalled career pivots
  • The credibility gap when switching domains
  • Why the traditional “generalist” narrative often falls short

This session sets the stage for a deeper conversation about leadership development and career transformation.

18.50 - 19.45
Alumni conversation & moderated discussion

Hear directly from Executive MBA alumni as they share their experiences of navigating career transitions, expanding their leadership perspective, and applying new insights in their organisations.

This interactive session includes:

  • Short alumni reflections on their Executive MBA journey
  • Moderated discussion with participants
  • Opportunity to ask questions about leadership development and career impact
19.45 - 20.00
Wrap-up & key takeaways

Key insights from the evening and reflections on how the Executive MBA experience can support your leadership ambitions.

20.00 - 21.00
Informal drinks and networking

Continue the conversation in a relaxed setting while connecting with alumni, fellow professionals, and representatives from Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM).

Why attend the Executive MBA Event in Amsterdam

Gain clarity on your next career move

Senior professionals often reach a point where experience alone is no longer enough to unlock the next opportunity. Strategic perspective, global networks, and renewed leadership confidence become essential.

During this event you will:

  • Explore how an Executive MBA can accelerate your leadership growth
  • Learn how experienced professionals successfully pivot their careers
  • Discover how the RSM Executive MBA develops strategic thinking and global perspective
  • Connect with ambitious peers facing similar career questions

This is a rare opportunity to reflect on your leadership journey while gaining practical insights from those who have already taken the next step.

 

Meet the speakers

Learn directly from the people shaping the programmes

Erik Roelofsen

Academic Director Executive MBA 
Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University 

Caroline Angle

Executive MBA Recruitment & Admissions Manager
Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University 

Meike Kiestra

Executive MBA Recruitment & Admissions Manager
Rotterdam School of Management (RSM), Erasmus University 

Matthijs Wilhelmus

Founder of PORAST Search Fund and Executive MBA Class of 2020 alumnus

Hear from Executive MBA Alumni

Professionals from diverse industries join the Executive MBA at Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM) to strengthen their leadership and broaden their global perspective. Discover how alumni experienced the programme and applied their insights in their careers.

You grow enormously as a person during the Executive MBA. The immediate return is personal development, but the real value is the confidence and perspective you gain along the journey.

Lusanele Magwa, Executive MBA Class of 2024

The Executive MBA at RSM strengthens my credibility and equips me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to grow within my company and lead more effectively.

Hannah Timmer, Executive MBA Class of 2026

RSM’s Executive MBA strengthened my entrepreneurial ambitions and gave me the confidence to take bigger steps. Learning from peers and professors has helped me see how I can turn ideas into real opportunities.

Raza Padhani, Executive MBA Class of 2025

I’m naturally curious and enjoy taking on new challenges. The Executive MBA pushes me to think differently and is accelerating both my learning and the opportunities ahead of me.

Annette van Lochem, Executive MBA Class of 2025

I want to be part of meaningful change and become the best people manager I can be. The Executive MBA helps me develop the perspective and leadership skills to make that impact.

Diana Alvarez, Executive MBA Class of 2024

FAQs

The event offers experienced professionals an opportunity to discuss leadership transitions, career development, and the Executive MBA experience in an informal setting.

No. The event is open to professionals who are curious about leadership development and the Executive MBA journey.

The event takes place in Koninklijke Industrieele Groote Club, Dam 27, 1012 JS Amsterdam and brings together professionals from across the Netherlands and internationally.

Registration can be completed through the registration form. Places are limited to maintain an interactive discussion environment.

Still interested in joining the conversation?

Join Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University (RSM) in Amsterdam for an evening of discussion, alumni insights and networking with experienced professionals exploring their next leadership step.

Book your place