From surgery to hospital management, via our Online MBA
For three decades, Philip Fransen had become an increasingly specialist surgeon – performing complex urology keyhole and robotics procedures. But he felt his deep expertise came at the expense of broader management understanding.
“After years of intense sub‑specialisation I felt I had developed “tunnel vision”, he says. “I wanted to broaden my general management knowledge.”
An executive MBA felt like the perfect next step – but the demands on a surgeon’s time can be unpredictable. So Philip was delighted to find that he could study for an executive MBA, 100% online, at Vlerick. The programme offers the same quality and intense learning as our other executive MBA formats – but it gives additional flexibility to participants who can’t commit to traveling regularly to on-campus sessions.
Deeply immersive and rewarding
Philip aced the application, and quickly immersed himself in the programme – discovering new strengths, skills and approaches. Importantly, he found himself part of an intelligent and supportive cohort from different professions and backgrounds – from all over the world.
He says: “The programme content is really well designed. You have almost daily group discussions – and you’re encouraged to contribute and take part in group assessments and live sessions. So although you’re studying online, you’re very connected to your fellow Online MBA participants.”
In a period of just over two years, Philip managed his time and self-study to excel in module after module. Some subjects were more challenging than others – but all allowed him to push himself and develop the skills to manage.
Designed to expand horizons
He says: “The financial courses were difficult for me – but rewarding. They made me look at the functioning of a hospital in a very different way.
“A skill I learned through my Online MBA was journaling. I certainly didn’t expect to be doing this during the MBA, but I’m still doing it, and finding it very useful. I also discovered new ways to negotiate with many stakeholders – and how to prepare for negotiations. It was also inspiring to learn about the importance and impact of big data and AI.”
Philip excelled in many areas of his Online MBA – and was part of the winning team on the IMEx challenge. This business game is a core part of all our executive MBAs and is designed to test students’ strategic decision-making skills in a competitive environment.
He also smashed his Knowledge-in-Action Project (KIAP), with an exploration of the implementation and evaluation of telemedicine for patient consultations.
Delivering beyond expectations
Philip says: “The great thing about an Online MBA is that you can make it work around your schedule. I once attended an online session in a hotel room in Milan. A few moments later, I headed out to the Teatro alla Scala to experience a performance conducted by John Williams. Two magical moments in one evening!”
Altogether, Philip says his Online MBA delivered beyond his expectations. He says: “It was an incredible journey. An Online MBA at Vlerick is challenging, inspiring and transformative – and the inspiration will last forever.
“It has allowed me to close a long chapter as a urological surgeon and look forward to new opportunities in the future. I’m more open, more of a team player – and I better understand the perspectives of stakeholders across the hospital.
Professional tools and network
“I now have a toolkit and network that will open doors far beyond the work I’ve always done.
“At our graduation ceremony, it was such a joy to finally meet so many people in person – people I had only seen as tiny faces online over the previous years. I’ve met people from diverse backgrounds, which has been tremendously enriching.
“It’s an intense experience – but it proves that you can learn leadership. When the timing is right, and you feel you can plan the time investment carefully, don’t hesitate. Vlerick’s Online MBA will allow you to achieve your goals.”
Get in touch!
Aurelie Van de Meulebroucke
Customer Relationship Manager – Full-Time, (Global) Executive and Online MBA