Anne-Valérie Corboz, Dean of Executive Education at HEC Paris, CHA 1989
Anne-Valérie Corboz
La Châtaigneraie, 1989
Dean of Executive Education at HEC Paris
France
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These experiences not only shaped my approach to inclusion but also laid the foundation for my professional journey. Whether leading innovation projects, facilitating executive workshops, or mentoring future leaders, the adaptability and cultural fluency I cultivated at Ecolint have proven indispensable.
I graduated in 1989 from La Châtaigneraie and my time there has left an indelible mark on me. The campus, the friendships, and the unique international environment were truly formative. I often describe myself as an “accidental academic.”Over the years, I have had the privilege of working and teaching executive education at renowned institutions such as IMD and INSEAD in Europe, Imperial College in the UK, and Duke and SMU in Singapore. Most recently, I served as the Dean of Executive Education at HEC Paris. By training, I am a professor of strategy and innovation, and much of my work today revolves around designing innovation blueprints for governments and organisations, as well as facilitating high-performing senior leadership teams and board workshops. My leadership roles have also led me to focus on empowering women in leadership. I currently split my time between Paris and London, though my work often takes me to various corners of the globe. Whether collaborating with organisations or mentoring individuals, I find immense fulfilment in helping people and institutions navigate challenges and unlock their potential.
My favourite memories revolve around the incredible friendships I formed with classmates who came from all walks of life. The 1980s were an exciting time—we studied hard for the International Baccalaureate programme (which was relatively new at the time) while still managing to have some pretty wild parties. I also treasure the small moments, like taking the train with friends from Lausanne to La Châtaigneraie, and my history classes, which sparked my lifelong curiosity about leadership and strategy.
My favourite memories revolve around the incredible friendships I formed with classmates who came from all walks of life.
Graduating from a school with such a globally recognised academic reputation certainly opened doors for me, particularly when securing my first role at Pfizer. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program further honed my critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability—skills that have been invaluable throughout my career. More importantly, Ecolint felt like a natural continuation of my international and expatriate upbringing, offering a sense of belonging within a global community. The diversity of my classmates and teachers broadened my perspective, teaching me how to navigate and collaborate in multicultural environments. These experiences not only shaped my approach to inclusion but also laid the foundation for my professional journey. Whether leading innovation projects, facilitating executive workshops, or mentoring future leaders, the adaptability and cultural fluency I cultivated at Ecolint have proven indispensable.
Would I do anything differently? Honestly? Nothing! Every step —successes, challenges, and yes, failures — has shaped me into the person I am today. Each experience taught me lessons that have been instrumental in both my career and personal growth.
My words of wisdom for students: I often tell my students that careers are long, evolving journeys. It’s perfectly fine to go “off track” or take detours—they often lead to valuable lessons and unexpected opportunities. Experiment, explore, and don’t be afraid to take risks, whether that’s moving to a far-off country, trying a different industry, or stepping outside your comfort zone. Most importantly, stay curious and never stop learning. Success is not a linear path; it’s about building a meaningful and fulfilling journey over time.
My hope is to leave a legacy rooted in the transformative power of education and the role of business schools in shaping a better world. I want to ensure that the institutions I contribute to foster innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to addressing the critical challenges of our time, such as climate change, social inequality, and ethical leadership.
On an individual level, I hope to inspire future leaders to think boldly, act responsibly, and create meaningful change in their organisations and communities. I’d like to be remembered as someone who not only facilitated knowledge but also empowered people to uncover their unique strengths, chart fulfilling career paths, and lead with purpose and empathy.