Peter Westman

An Online MBA isn’t just about what you learn. It’s about developing your strategic mindset.

Meet Peter Westman, Program Manager, Merchant Operations at Adyen, currently pursuing the EDHEC Online MBA. Based in Haarlem, the Netherlands, Peter shares how the program has helped him broaden his perspective, apply new frameworks in his role, and learn alongside a diverse global cohort.

Why did you choose the Online MBA at EDHEC?

“It was very important to have that kind of flexibility. I wanted to stay in my current role while still being able to pursue my studies and also support my growing family.

It’s been a fantastic experience so far. I had the opportunity to move into program management, so I really wanted to strengthen my strategic mindset and be able to really influence change within the organisation.

So given the academic reputation of EDHEC, its strong professional network, and the ability to kind of really lean into these development areas for me, it was a perfect fit.”

How has the Online MBA impacted your career and mindset so far?

“I’ve now moved into a program management role within merchant operations excellence, and it’s been very exciting, the opportunity to immediately apply what I’m learning during my coursework directly into my day-to-day.

So in terms of frameworks, methodologies, and just general best practices. I think the opportunity to really put learning into practice has been really exciting.

One of the biggest things that I’ve noticed so far is that I’m now oriented towards taking what happens in the day-to-day, but then trying to extrapolate to the bigger picture. So understanding how different pieces fit together, being much more process- and procedure-oriented.”

Tell us about the Learning Expedition experience in the Online MBA program

“One of the most important parts of my MBA decision was the opportunity for the Learning Expedition, which is part of the EDHEC Online MBA program.

So the Learning Expedition is a one-week trip which allows participants to go to various locations globally in order to visit different academic institutions and engage with business leaders.

For me, this year, our Learning Expedition will be in Boston, which is tremendously exciting. It’s an opportunity to visit some of the most prestigious academic institutions, including MIT and Harvard, visit various start-ups alongside major international firms, and to really engage with various business leaders.”

What has impressed you most about studying online at EDHEC?

“I had a friend who was pursuing an online degree at another institution in a different subject area, but his experience was very much that it was something where there was very limited engagement on the platform. The platform was difficult to navigate, and there was not a very strong learning community; no one was asking questions. It wasn’t really a very enthusiastic group.

For me, it’s been a complete 180 at EDHEC. We have a very vibrant, active student group. We have it through our WhatsApp, our Slack, and during our course discussions. It’s always very lively, people challenging each other’s perspectives and sharing their learning. That’s something that really makes the difference when it comes to online learning. The diversity of the cohort, both in terms of age, geographical location, and professional experiences, has really made all the difference.

I think I really appreciate people having different perspectives, different life experiences, and different levels of seniority in their organisation. That’s really crucial to a strong learning cohort.”

What would you say to someone considering an Online MBA?

“I would absolutely recommend it. I think it provides the best of both worlds. So the strong academic rigour, but then also a really strong, supportive network, and then gives you the flexibility to continue to pursue your ongoing professional goals, meet your personal needs, but still get the MBA experience.”