Professor Lars Strannegard elected Chair of CEMS and Professor Sherif Kamel nominated Deputy-Chair

CEMS, the unique global alliance of 34 of the world’s leading business schools and more than 70 corporate and social partners which together deliver the CEMS Master in International Management (MIM), announces new CEMS Chair and Deputy Chair.
Lars Strannegard Sherif Kamel

CEMS Alliance has elected Professor Lars Strannegard, President of the Stockholm School of Economics as its new Chair and Professor Sherif Kamel, Dean of the American University in Cairo Business School as Deputy-Chair. Professor Strannegard takes up his new role having already served for four years as the Alliance’s Deputy Chair.

“In these times of war, economic turmoil and renationalisations, CEMS is more important than ever.  Our values: integrity, humility, cultural diversity, respect and empathy are guiding lights for the world as a whole,” I hope to increase collaboration between all members and partners and see CEMS setting the agenda for how business schools need to develop in the future,” said Prof Strannegard.

CEMS graduates all speak three languages (including English) and will have studied in at least two countries during their time on the programme. 

“The CEMS MIM provides students with a global outlook, profound knowledge and an ability to navigate the world with a clear values compass.  The fact that they get to see the world, get to know students from all over the globe, in combination with experiencing other cultures first-hand is an invaluable combination,” he said.

Professor Strannegard succeeds Professor Greg Whitwell, Dean of the University of Sydney Business School.

“Greg’s curiosity, kindness, analytical ability, and humour have been key assets for CEMS.  He leaves the Alliance stronger than when he came in, that is the best receipt of a job very well done,” said Professor Strannegard.

Founded more than 30 years ago as a pan-European organization, CEMS has members in all continents.  The CEMS MIM is delivered to around 1,200 students from about 60 different countries annually.

“I am honoured and humble for the trust that the Alliance has put in me.  I am so looking forward to working in this fantastic network of interesting, kind and professional individuals all over the world. I have dedicated my professional life to higher education and CEMS is such a powerful network for having an impact on the future. CEMS graduates have the potential to push boundaries and create a better, more sustainable world.” said Professor Strannegard.

Professor Kamel commented:

“It is a great privilege to be appointed as the CEMS Deputy-Chair and have the opportunity to serve the CEMS community––a global intellectual powerhouse that continues to have a sustainable and scalable impact on various societies. Through its innovative academic offerings, developmental projects, and alumni activities, including the Master in International Management––the CEMS flagship program–– CEMS provides learners with a unique learning experience and cultural exposure while connecting to an influential alumni network, business schools, corporates, and social partners. I look forward to working with my colleagues from across the CEMS business schools’ network on what I firmly believe is invaluable to the global society; that is, to help shape the future business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to make a difference in society.”