From Corporate Leadership to Executive MBA: Urszula Kłos’s Journey of Growth

After more than two decades of experience in various roles, Urszula Kłos, Sales Director at Orlen Unipetrol, had already built an impressive international career. Yet like many experienced executives, she found herself asking an important question: What comes next?

For Urszula, the answer was clear. She decided to invest in herself and join the Executive MBA at the Faculty of Business Administration, Prague University of Economics and Business (VŠE).

Learning Never Stops

Originally from Poland and now living and working in the Czech Republic, Urszula currently serves as Sales Director at Orlen Unipetrol. Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions in various roles, leading teams, managing complex operations, and navigating an increasingly dynamic business environment.

Despite her extensive experience, she recognised that today’s executives face challenges that require continuous learning and adaptation.

“After more than 20 years in management, I realised that experience alone is not enough. The business environment is changing rapidly, and I wanted to broaden my perspective beyond my own area of expertise,” says Urszula.

The decision to return to university was not about obtaining another qualification. It was about gaining new insights, challenging existing assumptions, and preparing for the next stage of leadership.

Why Executive MBA at the Faculty of Business Administration VŠE?

When searching for the right programme, Urszula was looking for more than academic excellence. She wanted a programme that combined international quality standards, practical business relevance, and a strong network of experienced professionals.

The Executive MBA at VŠE stood out for several reasons.

As one of the few Triple Crown accredited business schools in Central and Eastern Europe, VŠE offers a globally recognised learning experience supported by EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA accreditations. Equally important was the opportunity to study alongside senior executives, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from diverse industries and countries.

“I was looking for a programme that would challenge me intellectually while remaining highly practical. What attracted me most was the combination of academic quality, international perspective, and the experience of learning from peers who face similar leadership challenges in their organisations.”

Beyond Functional Expertise

One of the most valuable aspects of the programme has been the opportunity to step outside her professional comfort zone.

Like many executives, Urszula built her career within a specific functional area. The Executive MBA has allowed her to develop a broader understanding of business, connecting strategy, finance, marketing, leadership, and operations into a coherent management perspective.

“The programme constantly pushes you to look beyond your own function. It encourages you to think like a general manager rather than a functional specialist. That shift in perspective has been incredibly valuable.”

Through case studies, classroom discussions and interactions with fellow participants, she has gained new tools and frameworks that she can immediately apply in her professional role.

Learning from an International Cohort

For Urszula, the cohort itself has become one of the programme’s greatest strengths.

The Executive MBA brings together professionals from a wide range of industries, backgrounds, and nationalities. This diversity creates an environment where participants learn not only from faculty members but also from each other.

“Every discussion brings a different perspective. Someone from finance approaches a challenge differently than someone from marketing, technology, manufacturing, or consulting. Those conversations have expanded the way I think about business problems and opportunities.”

The network formed during the programme extends far beyond the classroom, creating relationships that continue to generate value long after individual modules are completed.

Balancing Work, Life, and Study

Returning to education while managing a demanding executive role is not without challenges. Like many Executive MBA participants, Urszula balances professional responsibilities, personal commitments, and her EMBA studies.

However, she views this challenge as part of the experience.

“It requires discipline and commitment, but it is absolutely worth it. The programme forces you to prioritise, reflect, and make time for your own development. As leaders, we often invest heavily in our teams and organisations. The Executive MBA is an opportunity to invest in yourself.”

Advice for Future Candidates

When asked what she would say to professionals considering an Executive MBA, Urszula offers simple advice:

“Don’t wait for the perfect moment. There will always be competing priorities. If you are curious, ambitious, and open to learning, the experience will challenge you, broaden your horizons, and help you grow both professionally and personally.”

Her journey reflects a mindset shared by many successful leaders: learning does not end with experience. It becomes even more important because of it.

For executives seeking new perspectives, stronger leadership capabilities, and a network of accomplished professionals, the Executive MBA at the Faculty of Business Administration VŠE offers an opportunity to continue growing long after traditional education has ended.