As responsibility and complexity increase, continuous learning becomes essential for success as a leader. For Nicolette Dijkshoorn, Country Executive Norway at ABN AMRO Bank N.V., this marked the beginning of a focused development journey that has strengthened both her professional foundation and strategic leadership capabilities.
From practical experience to strategic insight
Throughout her career in banking, Nicolette has gained extensive practical knowledge, but with increasing responsibility, she realized that the leadership role required a more holistic perspective. She wanted to strengthen her abilities in strategic decision-making, team leadership, and managing complex organizational challenges. The IMC offered a structured program that combines international perspectives with a Scandinavian context, providing her the opportunity to develop concrete skills that can be applied directly in everyday work.
«In banking, I have always learned the most on the job, but as my responsibilities grew, I felt the need to update myself – to strengthen my professional foundation as a leader and be better prepared for the demands of a modern senior role. The International Management Certificate from the Scandinavian Executive Institute and INSEAD was, for me, the perfect combination of global insight and Nordic relevance.»
High quality and practical learning
The programs combine international academic rigor with practical exercises that make learning directly applicable to leadership roles. Participants work on case studies, group assignments, and simulations that mirror challenges from real organizations, providing them with concrete tools they can bring back to their own daily work. The Nordic modules additionally offer local context, highlighting issues particularly relevant for leaders in Scandinavia, making it possible to connect global perspectives to local decision-making situations.
«The academic level was very high, and I had several ‘aha’ moments in every single module. It’s not just theory – everything is highly interactive, case-based, and practical. I could relate it directly to my own work and implement the tools immediately. Additionally, the Nordic modules add an extra dimension: context, culture, and challenges that are highly relevant for leaders in Scandinavia.»
Three programs, one comprehensive learning journey
The journey towards the IMC included three programs over the course of one year: the Executive Management Programme, Leading Strategic Change, and Negotiation Dynamics. Nicolette began with the Executive Management Programme, which provided a solid strategic foundation, focusing on strategy, innovation, and leadership that could be applied directly in her daily work. She then proceeded with Leading Strategic Change, which offered insights into the practical use of strategic and organizational tools and strengthened her confidence in leading complex change processes. Finally, she attended Negotiation Dynamics at INSEAD, which provided new perspectives on high-level negotiation and communication.
This structured journey through three carefully selected programs forms the foundation of the International Management Certificate – a formal recognition for leaders who have purposefully developed their skills in global leadership and board work. The IMC allows participants to plan their leadership development and complete programs at a pace that suits their career, while building an international network and gaining tools that enhance both professional competence and strategic insight.
The value of the group and network
«The diversity of backgrounds, industries, and careers created a learning environment where we both challenged and learned from each other. Many of us faced the same issues, which made the conversations and group discussions particularly valuable.»
Participant experiences form an important part of the learning journey in the IMC. Collaboration in groups and discussions with leaders from different sectors and levels provides new perspectives on complex challenges and encourages reflection on one’s own practice. This diversity not only deepens understanding of strategic issues but also creates lasting relationships and a network that can be valuable for future projects and decision-making processes.
A boost both personally and professionally
Through the IMC, Nicolette has developed a clearer strategic understanding, gained additional leadership tools, and increased confidence in complex situations:
«For me, this has been a truly enlightening journey – a boost both personally and professionally. I feel stronger in my role today, with greater insight, more tools, and a clearer strategic understanding. I would recommend the International Management Certificate to anyone stepping into senior leadership, seeking to develop their leadership skills and organizational perspective, or simply wanting to be better prepared in a rapidly changing world. It’s not about volume, but about quality – and that is precisely where this program truly stands out.»
IMC – an investment in the future
The International Management Certificate is more than just a diploma. For Nicolette, it has been a structured learning journey that combines a global perspective with Nordic relevance, providing both academic rigor and an inspiring network. Her experience demonstrates how purposeful learning can strengthen both professional and personal development.
The IMC is designed for leaders who want to take their careers to the next level, develop strategic insight, and strengthen their role in complex organizations. The program offers the flexibility to complete leadership programs at a pace that suits them, while building valuable international connections.
