Your MSc Management of Innovation and Medical Business & Innovation graduation

Forget grand buildings – Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University began its journey in 1970, at an admittedly large villa in the Rotterdam suburb of Kralingen.  It wasn't flashy, but it marked a turning point, fueled by the city's business spirit and a desire to raise the bar for Dutch business education.

The school's roots stretch back to 1913 and the ambition to elevate commerce training.  But by the 1960s, a new era beckoned. Universities joined forces with influential Dutch multinationals, heavyweights like Shell and Unilever, recognizing the need for a different kind of business leader – one equipped for an increasingly globalized world.

The result was Rotterdam School of Management, its inaugural class in 1970 a select group of just 30 students.  This wasn't about mass education; it was about nurturing exceptional talent, fostering minds that could navigate the complexities of international business.

Those early years in Kralingen were about more than just lessons. The school tapped into Rotterdam's business networks and included technical training, giving students a real-world edge. There was a feeling that this place was building a new generation of Dutch business leaders who would leave their mark.

Of course, the villa was just the beginning. Rotterdam School of Management is now a global player, with alumni shaping industries around the world.  But as you graduate today, take a moment to think about that house in Kralingen, and just 30 students. It's a reminder that even the grandest ambitions often have modest beginnings.

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Graduating from Management of Innovation in 2013, Daniel went on to a career in the technology industry, before becoming B2B Marketing Manager at TikTok.

Juan P. Madiedo is an Associate Professor at Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University. 

He obtained his Ph.D. in Business Studies from IE Business School, IE University in Spain. In his research he focuses on the role of managers in the performance of the operations of the firm. More specifically, his works investigates how different types of experience accumulated by managers in their role influence the way in which organizations accumulate and leverage different sources of knowledge at their disposal. 

Prior to join RSM Juan P. held positions at IE University in Spain and Universidad de los Andes in Colombia. In recent years he has held a visiting scholar position at INCAE Business School in Costa Rica.

Amir Omidvari is an experienced health science physician-researcher with a background in medicine and public health, focusing on healthcare quality improvement, clinical research, and health economics. He currently serves as a researcher at Erasmus MC University Medical Center and as the Academic Co-Director of the Master in Medical Business and Innovation at Rotterdam School of Management. His expertise includes project management, health policy, systems research, and economic modeling studies to advance healthcare practices and systems.

Bruno strengthens alumni engagement by leading key initiatives like the alumni mentoring programme and Alumni Career Days. With a Master of Public Administration and over five years of experience, Bruno has effectively driven strategic projects that enhance alumni connections, support RSM’s objectives, and elevate alumni experiences through expert project management, stakeholder engagement, and volunteer coordination.