As an investment analyst and impact investing specialist at ADM Capital, my work revolves around ESG management, impact investing, and development finance—particularly in agriculture, forestry, and land use. Over the years, I’ve led technical assistance and investment programme and built blended finance projects. Yet, I reached a point where I felt the need to deepen my understanding and sharpen the theoretical foundation behind the work I was already doing.
That search led me to the Master of Leadership in Sustainable Finance at Frankfurt School of Finance & Management.
Like many professionals, I was looking for something that could add value beyond a degree—a programme that truly aligned with my goals. I discovered Frankfurt School through my own research, and what stood out to me was its practical approach to development and sustainable finance. It wasn’t just about academic theory—it was about application, systems thinking, and global relevance.
I was also looking to enhance my credentials through an institution with a strong reputation. FS checked all the boxes. The programme offered the credibility, depth, and network I needed to grow.
One of the biggest concerns I had was managing time. But the structure of the programme is incredibly well-designed for full-time professionals. I mostly studied on weekends or during downtime, including when I was traveling. The ability to access materials flexibly, at my own pace, made all the difference. The learning model respects the reality of working professionals while still challenging us intellectually.
The coursework is rigorous, but in a good way. What I appreciated most were the case studies—real, practical examples that reflect the complexities of public-private partnerships and sustainable finance instruments in the real world. I haven’t seen other programmes present this kind of practical structure so effectively.
I particularly enjoyed diving deep into subjects like renewable energy finance and sustainable development. These were not just academic modules—they directly informed the way I approach challenges in my current work.
Since graduating, I’ve continued working on impact investing initiatives that prioritize meaningful development outcomes. The knowledge I gained from FS has been directly applicable to my work—helping me think more strategically and act more effectively.
Sustainable finance is a multi-dimensional field. It touches policy, private capital, risk, and innovation. What the programme taught me is how to think across these domains—to connect the dots and see the system as a whole. That kind of thinking is critical, especially in Asia, where climate risks, inequality, and infrastructure needs are converging in complex ways.
Asia is becoming increasingly central to the global economy, but it also faces enormous environmental and social challenges. The next generation of leaders will need to be able to understand and navigate systems—where finance, policy, and sustainability meet.
This programme is uniquely suited to that task. It blends technical financial training with sustainability frameworks and policy insights, all through a global lens. For professionals from Asia, this means gaining tools that are both globally relevant and regionally applicable.
If you’re considering this path, come equipped with a systems-thinking mindset. Be prepared to cross boundaries—between finance, policy, environment, and development—and to explore the complex interconnections among them. The programme offers much more than academic growth; it provides access to a vibrant network of global professionals and institutions, all committed to shaping a more sustainable and equitable world.
And most importantly: use the experience to question and challenge your own assumptions, and to grow—not only as a professional, but as a thoughtful, forward-looking leader.