Executive MBA Ex e cutiv Executive MBA Executive MBA Executive MBA MBA MBAEx e cutiv MBA Ex e cutiv MBA MBAEx e cutiv MBA Ex e cutiv MBA

MBA

MBA e cutiv e Ex MBA e cutiv e Ex MBA e cutiv e Ex Ex e cutiv

2 www.rbs.lv RBS Director`s Welcome Executive MBA Director’s Welcome

Welcome to Business School at Riga Technical University! Thank you for looking into the Executive MBA program at Riga Business School at Riga Technical University (RBS). This brochure has a lot of information in it to help you choose the best program Being at the cross-roads between East and West, Riga has always been a hub of business activity. for you. Whether you are looking to advance your career, change your career, or just are interested For more than two decades Riga Business School (RBS) has provided world class in studying business, RBS delivers lifelong sustaining results. We prepare students for senior training to current and future executives. Our strong commitment to high quality, the principles management challenges and responsibilities through an intense and international professional of North American MBA programs and all courses presented in English, makes RBS distinctive. development experience.

With being a member of the European Union, management has become more The RBS Executive MBA program is a North American style management program. It is designed popular and reaches for new horizons. The RBS MBA programs are there to meet the challenge. With for experienced professionals who are ready to really lead, in their organizations and in the the help of RBS strategic partners, University at Buffalo (USA), (), and community. The curriculum is designed to provide a perspective on a diverse set of business areas, BI Norwegian Business School (Norway), and integrating the needs of our corporate supporters, develop strategic thinking and leadership skills that prepare students for effectively leading in the programs are designed to prepare business leaders for the global world of tomorrow. In this the fast-changing and competitive modern global environment. racing world successful leadership is a combination of knowledge of contemporary business processes and international experience. While I can give you many statistics on the accomplishments of our graduates in the community and the business world, no words and no brochure can properly express the enriching nature of An international faculty and academically strong management programs in the dynamic city of studying with, supporting and being supported by great classmates. Together, you accomplish Riga bring you an experience that will prepare you for an impressive management career in the significant academic and personal achievements. Students graduate from the RBS Executive MBA future. I look forward to welcoming you to Riga Business School - where business challenges are program with lifelong friendships and business relationships. solved and inspirations originate. Just as we think it is important who you associate with, please take a note at who we associate with. We have created opportunities for you to participate in the learning process with some of Sincerely yours, the great learning institutions in the world. Jānis Grēviņš, Ph D. RBS Director So again, thank you for looking into the RBS Executive MBA program and best of luck. If you have any questions not answered in this brochure, please let us know. We will be glad to help.

Sincerely, William C. Schaub, MBA/CPA Executive MBA Program Director

4 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 5 About the Riga Business School 21 years ago Riga Technical University (RTU) in co – operation with the State University of New York at Buffalo (UB) founded Riga Business School (RBS). Today Riga Business School is the number one destination for management education in the Baltic region. RBS mission is to educate managers and build leaders who create sustainable prosperity in the region and all of Europe.

Riga Business School is the first and only school in this part of Europe offering North - American style MBA both in teaching standards and structure. RBS always uses intensive case studies, group work and active classroom involvement. All MBA programs are taught in English, granting its graduates an internationally recognized Masters of Business Administration degree. From 2012, Riga Business School offers a Bachelor of Management in International Business.

Riga Business School has a solid reputation and more than 970 MBA graduates, most of whom occupy leading managerial positions both in Latvia and abroad.

Riga Business School is the first public educational institution in Latvia to have earned the International Quality Assurance (IQA) award by Central and Eastern European Management Development Association (CEEMAN). CEEMAN is an international management development association established in 1993 with the aim of accelerating the growth in quality of management development in central and eastern Europe. It is a global network of management development institutions interested in quality of education and innovations in this field. We are proud to announce that this year RBS is unconditionally re-accredited by international accreditation authority CEEMAN for the next 6 years based on the academic excellence and contribution to business environment!

Riga Business School is a member of PRME (Principles for Responsible Management Education). The PRME are a call to encourage and facilitate the movement of business schools toward approaches that meet the new needs and expectations of the business world and the demands of a new generation of students with regard to sustainability and good corporate citizenship.

6 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 7 Executive MBA Program Program Philosophy Distinguishing Features Executive MBA Program Structure

The RBS Executive MBA program is a North American style The RBS Executive MBA program allows students to maintain management program. It is designed for experienced their career momentum, while bringing real and immediate professionals and prepares the students for senior management benefits to their company. RBS EMBA offers the same depth challenges and responsibilities through an intense and of knowledge and international network of teaching faculty international professional development experience. as in the well-known RBS Professional MBA program as well as the Leadership Development Practicum and the international exposure contained in the study trips. The program curriculum is designed to provide a perspective on a diverse set of business areas, develop strategic thinking and leadership skills that prepare students for effective organizational and operational development in the fast-changing and competitive global modern environment.

In addition to the Leadership Development Practicum and the study trips, the program uses modern interactive teaching methods – case studies, projects, active participation, and discussions. Student’s analyze and solve real business problems leading European and North American enterprises have encountered.

* RBS reserves the rights to vary the content and delivery of courses and the program. Diploma As part your Executive MBA experience, you will be taking the Leadership Development Practicum.

Upon successful program completion, student will be awarded an Internationally accredited Master of Business Administration Delivery Format degree from the Riga Business School at Riga Technical Leadership Development Practicum Structure University and certificate of recognition by University at Buffalo The RBS Executive MBA program is delivered through four in the US and the University of Ottawa in Canada. modules containing 15 courses, two study trips and a master’s Pre-work Module 1 Module 2 Module 3 Module 4 thesis over a 20-month format. After an introductory week, students attend classes and lectures one weekend (Thursday ME WE WORK LEADING through Sunday) a month. Throughout the program students ORGANIZATIONS participate in and complete the Leadership Development Practicum developed especially for RBS. In the first year of n Prereading n The reflective Leader n Personal Objectives n Grow through your n Building the High study students have a European study trip. In the second year n Preassesement n Values – based n Values and Personal relationships performance of study students have a one-week transcontinental study trip. n General orientation Leadership Vision n Parntership based organization Destinations for the transcontinental study trip have included n Value shift: n Driving the context organizations n Business in society to one of the RBS partner schools, the University of Buffalo in assess yourself, n EQ n Connection topics n Integration the US, the University of Ottawa in Canada, or Stellenbosch relationships and n Competence and and bottom – line University in South Africa. firms Character building n Manager as a coach: n Authentic Personal leaders coaching Leadership leaders

8 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 9 Admission Criteria Prominent Participants

n Solid previous education: minimum of Bachelor degree (or Appreciating the opportunities and challenges of such locally appropriate equivalent) from an accredited institution; diversity is a valuable business skill. Connecting people from n Relevant managerial experience, career progress (at least 5 different background, cultures and industries encourages years) and personal achievements; you to view the world differently, and inspires new ways n English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS); of thinking. Develop the knowledge and confidence to n 2 letters of recommendations from your colleagues or business speak authoritatively with senior people across all areas of partners; business, and the skills and insights to operate effectively in n Personal qualifications and motivation to commit; cross-cultural teams anywhere in the world. n Excellent business reputation. Executive MBA students bring vast experience and a multitude of perspectives to the classroom. Each student has a strong professional track record and proven academic ability, coupled How to Apply with the drive and motivation to undertake a rigorous MBA program alongside a demanding career. To apply as an EMBA program participant at the Riga Business School, you must submit application form by sending it to Your unique experience and the talents that you bring [email protected]. to the program are vital, and your contribution adds to the richness of the learning experience. The learning environment You can apply by mail or online. Access a printed RBS is collaborative and supportive, and fosters a lifelong, application form by downloading and printing PDF’s at close-knit and internationally diverse network. www.rbs.lv OR calling the admission office at (+371 67089800). You can also apply online using the common application at www.rbs.lv. Executive MBA Class Profile Summary

Average age 35

Average work experience 10 years

Range of work experience 5-25 years

Women 45%

Industries represented 13

10 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 11 Global Network Providing Global Opportunities Global Module To broaden the international perspective Executive MBA «This study trip gave me an excellent opportunity to visit program includes International Study module. Study trips several different companies operating in a variety of industries offer exceptional exposure to economic activity, market starting with financial and ending up with wine production. trends, and culture in USA, Europe and South Africa and During our in-class presentations given by the lecturers from combines academic learning with field visits to companies University of Stellenbosch we learned different aspects of from various industries such as finance, manufacturing, retail, doing business in South Africa and gained knowledge of the wine, diamond, banking and others. In addition, participants specifics of different industries. The focus on international interact with business leaders, local Executive MBA program cultural aspects of business, strategies for business in an participants, government officials to increase group dynamics emerging country, evaluations of strategic opportunities and and networking opportunities. There is also a space for social constraints, issues related to economic development and activities - for example, local culinary classes, the trip to Niagara international trade were discussed. Beyond that, the beautiful Falls or safari at Aquila Game resort. Itineraries vary from one nature and excursions supplemented our studies making the year to the next. study trip even more interesting and exciting. It was really a pleasure for my soul and mind.» Liene Dubava, MBA RBS Executive MBA Alumna Member of the Management Board, Head of Baltic Issuer Services NASDAQ OMX Riga

«Time spent in the University of Stellenbosch Business «After an extremely intensive and serious learning session, School, South Africa was valuable from various prospectives. the Cambride study trip came as a dessert. The negotiation First of all, the content of the program was compiled very model combined both, practical and theoretical aspects, Industry: professionally, covering different sectors and analyzing a that are immediately applicable to my day to day work. The n Engineering broad range of problems. Company visits were an important possibility to benchmark our own performance with the best n Trade part of the international module and included industries like EMBA students from Cambridge along with the input from n Retail finance, winemaking and retail, which allowed students to a very experienced and enthusiastic professor made it even n Banking complement the educational experience with elements of more valuable. The process of solving complicated tasks also n Finance entertainment. Likewise, evening events with the participation contributed to improved communication and cooperation n Insurance of USBS professors and alumni’s, were very useful in terms of among EMBA group members. At the end of the day it is the n Jurisprudence the new experience and a knowledge of the history and culture must have trip.» n information technology of South Africa, as well as unforgettable journey in the world of Arnis Ozols n Pharmacy Stellenbosch wines. All in all, days spent in South Africa were RBS Executive MBA Student n Catering an important part of the learning curve offered by RBS, very CEO n Food processing intense and full of joy.» JSC DELFI n Digital Media RBS Alumni who work or have business abroad Guntars Reidzāns, MBA RBS Executive MBA Alumnus Cities — Partner Schools and Study Trip Destinations Head of International Private Banking Buffalo — State University of New York at Buffalo(USA); Swedbank Ottawa — University of Ottawa (Canada); Cambridge — Churchill College, University of Cambridge (UK); Cape Town — University of Stellenbosch Business School (South Africa); Oslo — BI Norwegian Business School (Norway with BBA program). 12 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 13 Faculty The Riga Business School faculty are recognized both in the «The professional and dedicated faculty of RBS with academic world and in the business world for their insight, international experience is a well-balanced mix of academic experience and skill. This means that the RBS EMBA student knowledge and business expertise. Many companies in is guaranteed an academic experience that combines the Latvia are good partners of RBS and are willing to employ best of theoretical and practical knowledge. Every class, every RBS graduates since the school offers many courses taught session delivers immediately applicable skills and knowledge. in an international context. Students benefit from the close Knowledge without application doesn’t lead to profit, so cooperation of RBS with the BI Norwegian Business School, RBS Executive MBA students master a holistic approach to University at Buffalo and University of Ottawa. The long- understanding and solving business problems. Our program term collaboration of RBS with Latvian companies allows our rounds out the experience by bringing thought leaders from students to built a network of business contacts during their industry and civil society to the classroom (or sometimes studies. Our graduates bring their knowledge and experience bringing the students to the leaders) to share their knowledge to bear in meeting the challenges of a quickly changing and complete the cycle from class to business. Our instructors business environment.» blend of classroom learning, case studies, group work, inspiring Andrejs Koliškins, Ph.D. discussions, individual assignments, simulations and debate RBS Faculty of real-life business problems gives you a complete business education.

«Human Reosurces Management is a very practical subject. «As a faculty member it is always a privilege to work with There are few concepts one has to learn, some knowledge Executive MBA students. They bring a great amount of sources to read, and a plenty of analyzing, comparing, experience and knowledge to the classroom and the role of discussing, and practicing to do. You certainly don’t learn faculty is not only to teach but to help them share what they people management by the book. In EMBA program the already know. It is not uncommon to have significantly more greatest value added comes from the diverse managerial and than 100 years of senior leadership experience in the room, leadership experiences of each student. The most important which is extremely valuable when you can tap into it.» learnings take place during group discussions and group work. Gregory S. Mathers, MBA My role in the class is to challenge established assumptions by RBS Faculty discovering new angles to the well known people processes, to share my own professional experience and provoke passion for individual development. Based on my lengthy HRM career I can say with confidence that top managers almost never fail due to lack of technical competence, like finance, operations or marketing. If it happens, it’s mostly for the lack of people management and soft skills. As a seasoned HR practitioner, I’m passionate about the opportunity to touch many organizations and their people practices, and the opportunity to grow better equipped leaders out of our EMBA students.» Daiga Ērgle, MBA RBS Faculty

14 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 15 Leadership Development Practicum During the Leadership Development Practicum You Will:

Leadership Development Practicum participants will gain deep «One of the most exciting developments of the RBS is the n Be introduced to leadership theory, methods and models as the underpinning to responsible leadership behavior; understanding of the central concepts of leadership development implementation, the design and the launch of a personalized n Become more aware of how your personal leadership strengths can impact others in effective way; and coaching as they are applied in a variety of business and Leadership Development Practicum which will form an integral n Be introduced to the responsible value – based leadership style, based on power of fluid converstaion, stakeholdership,I nclusive social contexts. part of its Executive MBA from 2013 onwards. progress, participation, motivation and aspiration; Leadership is perhaps one of the most unutilized but also vast n Develop a coaching style that inspires, motivates and mobilizes others; The Practicum will include mastering new personal leadership resources available for the organizations both in the private n Acquire the necessarry tools and frameworks to lead change and positively transforme organizations; tools as well as working individually with the executive coach, and public sectors and to society as a whole. n Leverage your strengths and addr ess your derailment risks. focusing on knowledge implementation. While addressing their A critical thing is to understand that leaders are not born – they own issues, as opposed to case studies, the participants will be are developed. And the challenge to each one of us as a leader supported and coached to make the changes they need for the and to you is not to ask that is the very best type of leader out results they want. We will work in a challenging environment that there but to rather understand you can be the very best leader fosters development and will use peer review, quick feedback, that is possible for you to be. By exploring your strengths, living personal journals and executive coaching to make you more them out continuously, growing into your potential and also successful as a leader and a person. watching for those stumbling blocks which may cause you to underutilize yourself as a leader. RBS Leadership Development Practicum is an opportunity To be a great leader is to live from the inside out, not to copy to recognize your strengths and weaknesses and track your or clone somebody else. So becoming and being a conscious individual progress over the course. aware and sustainably high impact leader is a very personal journey. It is not about changing who you are but it is about revealing who you are and enabling that in other people as well.» Christo Nel LDP Program Faculty

10 Reasons Leaders Choose Us: n Recognized and Respected Program – internationally n International Experience – study trips to USA, Canada, South accredited and recognized degree in management; Africa, UK and some of world’s top Universities; n Best Practices in Teaching Approach – Lectures, n Innovation & Use of Technology – video lecturing, recording Harvard business case studies, study trips and group and e-resources (databases, e-journals, statistics and research projects; tools); Duration of the EMBA Program n Distinguished Faculty – international and local academia n Study Schedule That Fits Your Needs – flexible work day and business representatives (with degrees from world’s top evenings or fixed monthly modules; universities); n Business English Language – programs are fully taught in n Top Quality Classmates – top executives and entrepreneurs English language. ELC Resource; with different backgrounds (finance, banking, retail, n Student Services – online student support portal ORTUS, IT, construction, pharmacy, media, engineering, executive lounge, executive coaching hours, technical support; telecommunication, aviation, service, transport & logistics); n RBS Alumni Community – a great opportunity to share success.

16 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 17 Practical Student Information Visas and Residence Permits Campus Location

All admitted students will be provided with official invitations to Riga Business School is located in the very central part of study at Riga Business School. Based on the invitation, students Riga within a walking distance of modern shopping centers, will apply for study visa at the nearest Consulate or Latvian restaurants, cafeterias, hotels, parks and Old town. Distance from Embassy. It is important to note that this is a time – consuming the international airport is 25 minutes by car or public transport. process and could take up to two months. Riga Business School will assist students with the Residence Permit Application process. Student Housing and Meals For detailed information regarding residence permits, please consult the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs website – All international students can be accommodated in the modern, www.ocma.gov.lv, www.rbs.lv/practical-information. conveniently located student residence hall. Students will receive information about the housing application once admitted. Flats can be rented in town and start at 200 EUR per month. There is a Health Care and Medical Insurance high speed Internet connection provided within all areas of Riga. If you need help in finding a hotel or renting an apartment, or finding The Latvian health care system is very well established and medical a room at student dormitory, please contact us at [email protected]. care will be available to all international students. For non EU The city of Riga offers numerous options for eating out including citizens there are very special requirements for health insurance. small cafeterias where generous daily lunch specials can be The Orientation Course at Riga Business School at the beginning purchased for about 3 – 4 EUR. In general students should plan on of each semester will give students more information on health spending ca. 200 EUR a month on food. care issues (e.g. where to find Russian or English speaking doctors, Useful links: where to call in case of emergency etc.). www.rbs.lv/accommodation, www.rentinriga.lv, www.allhotels.lv, Useful links: www.riga-life.com www.ars-med.lv, www.vc4.lv, www.if.lv

Travelling Around Europe Working in Latvia After students who are non- EU countries citizens receive their International students can work in Latvia part-time. Non-EU Residence Permit to Study they can travel freely to any country citizens with Residence Permit to Study can apply for a Work within the Schengen area. Latvia can be accessed by virtually every Permit on the condition that their employment does not interfere means of transportation. Ferries link the three main seaports with with their studies. the other Baltic Sea countries. It provides an excellent opportunity to explore other countries in Northern Europe. The railway links Latvia to Russia and Belarus. Student Career Services Useful links: www.airbaltic.com, www.ryanair.com, www.tallink.lv, The Career Strategy consultants offer a wide range of program www.riga-airport.com and events to help students clarify their interests, gain insights into a variety of industries, and interact with alumni and other business leaders. We work with students to prepare them for a International Student Card (ISIC) successful job search, providing support in developing resumes and cover letters, preparing for interviews, and negotiating job ISIC is an International Student Identification Card which students offers. can use in Latvia and most other European countries to get various discounts in cafes, museums, theaters, etc. It is recognized as an identification card, and when shown at various institutions can provide students with discounts or even free entrance tickets. Useful links: www.isec.org 18 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 19 Why Study in Latvia? n The Republic of Latvia is situated in northern Europe on the n In the cultural arena, Riga is famous for offering opera, ballet cost of the Baltic Sea. Latvia has land borders with Estonia, and a variety of live music events. During summer, many Russia, Belarus, and Lithuania. In 2004 Latvia became a full concerts take place in parks, and street musicians play in the member of the European Union and NATO. There are about Old Town. Riga hosts various international festivals for music, 2 million inhabitants living in Latvia. The official language is film, theatre, poetry and art. A number of museums and art Latvian. galleries also add to the cultural experience.

n Latvia is situated in Europe’s mixed forest zone. Its geographical n Every summer there is a international song festival «New Wave», position and the presence of the Baltic Sea determine its as well as «More Smeha» and other popular events taking place natural diversity. Recreational opportunities include great in Jurmala a beautiful white sand beach town located just 20 wellness opportunities, as well as activities like sailing, minutes away from the center of Riga. ice-skating, skiing, spa and eco – tourism.

n Gourmets will enjoy Riga, since meals have an important role n Riga is the capital of Latvia and represents a lively mix of history, in traditional Latvian culture. Riga remains an elegant city with art, culture, entertainment, and award winning restaurants. a wide range of restaurants, trendy bars, tea rooms, cabaret Riga was founded in 1201 when the German Bishop Albert venues and quality shopping. With beer gardens and terraces built a castle on the site of a pre-existing Livonian settlement. in summer, ice rinks and cosy cafes in winter, and lively nightlife Due to its strategic position, Riga has been a trading centre and all year around. a link between East and West.

n Today Riga is recognized as a Baltic center of economic activity Useful links: and growth. Leading financial services and investment firms www.latvia.travel are located here, as are global organizations in consulting, www.liveriga.com advertising, and telecommunications. Students have www.latvia.com exceptional opportunities to make valuable connections, learn from local business leaders, and advance their careers.

n Riga is best known for its architectural legacy. The Old Town is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage list for buildings dating back to the Middle Ages and for the architecture bearings traits of Swedish, Polish, Russian and German influence. Art Nouveau is the architectural style Riga is now famous for.

20 www.rbs.lv www.rbs.lv 21 Office of Admission

Please let us know if we can provide more information about our programs, answer questions concerning entry requirements, or help you to join Riga Business School student community.

We speak Latvian, English, Russian, German, Spanish.

Riga Business School

11 Skolas str., Riga, LV – 1010, Latvia Phone: + 371 67089800 Fax: + 371 67089810 E-mail: [email protected] Skype: RBS_LV www.rbs.lv

Scan this barcode with your mobile phone to learn more about the Executive MBA Program