Catarina Lopes Pereira

1. Why did you choose to go back to school for an MBA? 

“I’ve always worked in highly specialised roles within healthcare, focusing on pricing and reimbursement of medicines. But I felt the need to broaden my horizons and step into more strategic roles. An MBA seemed like the perfect way to achieve that. It pushes you beyond your expertise, helping you grow and develop new skills.

Of course, networking and acquiring hard skills in finance and strategy were also key factors. But mainly, I saw the MBA as a way to expand my perspective and prepare for a leadership role.

Choosing RSM was a natural decision. I already work at this university, and I know firsthand how student-centric it is. It strives for academic excellence but also takes a holistic approach, genuinely caring about its students. RSM's values align perfectly with mine – especially its focus on sustainability and innovation. It felt like the right place for me, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.”

2. In what ways does the the Executive MBA prepare you to be a leader in an uncertain world?

“In several ways. First, it equips you with hard skills in finance, economics, and geopolitics – essential for interpreting today’s complex business environment. 

Second, the MBA structure itself prepares you for ambiguity. Balancing studies with work and personal life forces you to navigate complexity and make decisions under pressure.

Lastly, RSM’s Personal Leadership Development (PLD) programme is truly unique. It helps you reflect on your life experiences, understand how they shape you, and define your purpose. Knowing your purpose is crucial in uncertain times – it helps you make clearer, more confident decisions as a leader.” 

3. What is the RSM MBA culture like?

“The programme only just started for my class, but from day one, it’s been exciting and inspiring. The culture is open, collaborative, and incredibly diverse. My peers come from different backgrounds, industries, and nationalities – 55 students, 30 nationalities! The conversations are fascinating, and I’m constantly learning from them. The professors are excellent, making each class engaging and insightful. The guest speakers bring valuable real-world perspectives. Overall, the experience is enriching, energising, and exactly what I was looking for.”  

4. What has been the most challenging assignment or course so far?

“I’d say the Managerial Accounting group assignment. It was completely new to me, so I had to start from scratch. That made it challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. Leadership topics felt more familiar, but accounting pushed me outside my comfort zone. Still, I welcome these challenges – that’s what makes the MBA such a great learning journey.

5. What impact does the Personal Leadership Development (PLD) component of the programme have on you?

“PLD has already had a significant impact. One of the most interesting aspects is looking at my life experiences not just from my own perspective, but also through the eyes of friends and family. Their insights have been surprising and enlightening.

Reflecting on past role models – both official leaders and those without titles, like family members – has also been powerful. It’s made me realise that strong leadership is rooted in a clear sense of purpose and integrity – values I uphold and will continue applying in my own career.” 

6. What is the highlight of the EMBA curriculum for you?

“It’s still early days, but so far, the PLD programme has stood out. I also love the leadership and managerial accounting courses. Looking ahead, I’m really excited about data mining and strategic marketing. Many of these subjects are completely new to me, so having structured, formal education in them is incredibly enriching. I love learning, and the MBA is providing so many opportunities to do just that.” 

7. How are you contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through business – now and in the future?

“Professionally, I’ve always been focused on health and well-being, ensuring access to medicines for as many people as possible. It’s something I’m very proud of, but I know there’s still much more to do – especially beyond developed countries.

Health and well-being are crucial foundations for achieving all other SDGs. Without it, progress in other areas becomes much harder. I’m committed to continuing my work in this field and making a meaningful impact.”

8. How is an MBA from RSM setting you apart from your colleagues and your peers?

“We all bring something unique to the table, with or without an MBA. But what sets me apart now is the deeper reflection and structured learning the MBA provides. It helps me to lead more effectively, build high-performing teams, and make decisions under uncertainty. The focus on the ethical use of power is also particularly important – something that’s often overlooked in organisations. I hope more leaders get the chance to develop this perspective.” 

9. Has your MBA journey changed your outlook on your career?

“Absolutely. It’s given me a broader perspective on what I can do in the future. I still love working in market access and want to stay in a strategic role, but I’m also discovering new interests. The MBA is so transformative that I’m open to new possibilities I hadn’t even considered before. I’m excited to see where it takes me—I’m really open to being surprised.”

11. What does the future hold for you?

“I want to be a better version of myself. Already in this first module, the RSM MBA is shaping me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. After completing it, I know I’ll be equipped to make a greater impact – whether in my current field or beyond. I want to apply everything I’ve learned, from soft skills to hard skills, and contribute at a higher level. I feel so rewarded with this, and feel excited about the future.”