Ingrid Vatsiou, ESCP Business School MBA Class of 2027
Age: 34
Hometown: Stockholm, Sweden
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Masters specialization on Financing Engineering, Grande Ecole Program at ESSCA, Paris
Pre-MBA Work Experience: Private Markets Risk, Fund Management at JPMorgan Asset Management and Blackstone
Why did you make the decision to attend business school? Why now?
My background in risk has given me a deep understanding of market analysis and capital preservation. An MBA is the essential bridge to advancing my commercial intuition and strategic thinking as I take the next step in my career. Markets are undergoing massive structural shifts as the financial and geopolitical landscapes evolve – there’s no better time than now to acquire the advanced strategic frameworks needed to navigate the next cycle.
Why did you choose ESCP Business School? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
The pan-European model and strong entrepreneurial attitude drew me in. ESCP has a uniquely strong focus on creativity, innovation, and purpose-driven outcomes, which resonates with me as I look to further my personal and professional development. The opportunity to split my studies between major corporate hubs also lets me significantly expand my professional reach – and, on a personal note, it fits perfectly with my own situation, splitting my time between Paris and London.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2027?
I feel that my multicultural background and international experience give me a breadth of perspective and flexibility in how I approach different matters. Having grown up in Stockholm, I’m half Greek and half Swedish – or, I’d prefer to say, fully both. I’ve been living abroad in France, Luxembourg, and the UK since my teenage years, and along the way I’ve come into contact with many people and cultures, which has been incredibly enriching and has continually opened up my perspective.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that didn’t get included on your application:
When I was little, I was set on becoming an antique carpets expert. That commitment got me my first job placement at 14, at a Swedish auction house, working alongside the experts from Antiques Roadshow – something of niche celebrities in Sweden. Looking back, I suppose my interest in alternative assets started well before my CV suggests.
Post-MBA career interests:
A transition into real estate asset management, focused on driving commercial impact by combining my risk and fund finance background with the commercial skills I will gain over the year.
Advice for Current Prospective Applicants:
– What is one thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
Go to alumni events if possible and speak with as many alumni and current students as you can.
–What is one thing you would change or do differently?
Start earlier!
–What is one part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
Honestly, I wouldn’t skip any part – even the essays, which were tough, turned out to be one of the most valuable parts of the process. They forced real self-reflection and writing them helped me get focused for the year ahead.
What is your initial impression of the ESCP students/culture/community?
Very diverse and inclusive, across programs and years. Looking at the broader community – including alumni, whom I started meeting in London – I’ve sensed a strong ambition and go-getting attitude overall.
What student organizations have you joined/are you hoping to join and why?
I’m hoping to join Le Domaine, ESCP’s association focused on agriculture, viticulture, and their role in the wider economy and society – through conferences, farm and vineyard visits, and exchanges with industry professionals. It feels like a meaningful and culturally relevant way to bring another dimension to my studies, outside of the career track I’ve come from.
What is one thing you have learned about ESCP that has surprised you?
One thing that’s surprised me is the scale of ambition behind ESCP’s new “Bold & United” strategic plan – the school isn’t just refining its MBA, it’s positioning itself to become Europe’s first “University of Management,” adding entirely new schools in technology and governance by the end of the decade. It’s a very interesting time to be joining at a moment when the institution itself is thinking as boldly and strategically as its students.
What is one thing you are most excited about in your first year?
Since this is a 10-month program, my first year is effectively the whole journey – everything happens now, which makes the whole experience feel high-stakes in the best way. I’m especially looking forward to starting courses, meeting as many new people as I can, and using the year to make real progress on my career project.
