EMBA broadened my perspective and built a network that still thrives years later
Participant experience: Kari Klossner, Head of Program, Business Finland, EMBA 2015
Kari Klossner’s journey with TSE EXE began back in 2005 when he joined the JOKO program. His employer at the time wanted to systematically develop middle and senior management, and the collaboration with the University of Turku made it a natural choice.
“My employer recognized the value of the program and encouraged me to apply. The University of Turku’s program was local, high-quality, and developed in partnership with our company. It was an easy decision.”
Kari’s Executive MBA studies evolved through several phases. After starting in JOKO, he took a one-year break due to demanding work responsibilities before continuing and graduating in 2015.
“It’s been ten years since graduation, and the program’s impact is still visible,” he reflects.
From Motivation to Insight
Kari’s main motivation was to gain new perspectives and broader visibility beyond his own organization.
“I had worked for the same employer for a long time and wanted to see business from a more neutral and comprehensive viewpoint. EMBA gave me exactly that – a versatile and well-rounded understanding of business and leadership.”
Networking and peer learning became major motivators.
“One of the best parts was meeting people from different industries. I studied with two different groups and connected with around sixty professionals. The connections didn’t just happen by themselves – they required initiative – but they’ve lasted. We still meet regularly, even a decade later.”
Global Learning and Leadership Growth
EMBA provided both global perspective and new tools for leadership and decision-making.
“One key insight for me was understanding how small and medium-sized enterprises operate. Having spent most of my career in large international corporations, it was eye-opening to see how agility and renewal work in smaller organizations. I learned to appreciate that and to think about how to maintain that same adaptability in larger ones.”
A major highlight of the program was the international study weeks. Kari took part in modules in Texas, Hong Kong, and Florence, each offering fresh perspectives on global business and leadership.
“They were absolutely exceptional experiences. The professors were world-class, and the topics were timely and connected to real-world developments. I had never thought economics could be so fascinating — but in those lectures, it truly was. The combination of academic excellence and practical insight made the learning come alive. Globalization, market dynamics, and leadership across cultures all opened up in entirely new ways.”
Through discussions, peer learning, and scenario work, he also learned to view uncertainty differently.
“Discussions helped me reflect on how to ensure an organization remains agile and committed to continuous learning. The EMBA program introduced tools for future foresight and scenario planning — things you rarely have time to focus on in everyday business. I learned that you can’t control the future, but you can prepare for it through scenarios. That was an incredibly valuable insight.”
Personal Development and Tangible Results
For Kari, EMBA was a journey of both personal growth and practical impact.
“EMBA strengthened my confidence and broadened my worldview. I learned to see things from different angles and to find new solutions. That inevitably had a positive impact on the organization as well.”
During the program, he developed an electronic system for managing market information as part of a project assignment. The system was immediately adopted within his organization and brought tangible benefits to decision-making and information management.
“It was an excellent example of how studies and work life ran in parallel and supported each other.”
His EMBA thesis focused on developing the service business and exploring how after-sales services can become a value-creating part of a company’s overall business. The topic directly linked to his role at the time and provided new perspectives on transforming after-sales activities from a support function into a core business area – a direction the organization later pursued.
A Network That Endures
The network built during the EMBA program remains one of the most valuable outcomes.
“About twenty of us graduated that year, and many of us are still in touch ten years later. We exchange thoughts about how different organizations are responding to change, what challenges we face, and how we overcome them. It’s a strong community of peers who share ideas, challenges, and encouragement. That kind of professional trust is rare.”
Continuous Learning Mindset
When asked who he would recommend the EMBA program to, Kari answers without hesitation:
“Especially to professionals with around ten years of work experience and some level of managerial or performance responsibility. At that stage, you have enough experience but also the motivation and readiness to grow. EMBA is a high-quality experience that offers a broad perspective and equips you for future leadership.”
After completing the EMBA program, Kari continued his professional development by joining the HHJ program, which focused on board governance.
“It provided additional insight into board responsibilities and complemented EMBA perfectly. Together, they created a comprehensive understanding of leadership at all levels.”
“As a leader, you’re never finished.”
Kari sums up his experience this way:
“Life is a continuous learning experience. EMBA gave me the opportunity to pause, reflect, and grow – both as a leader and as a person. It broadened my worldview, strengthened my network, and gave me tools for renewal. Those lessons continue to carry me forward to this day.”
