dnata Singapore taps into MBA talent and expertise

Singapore, 28 January 2021 - Two teams of experienced MBA candidate students have concluded their research projects and presented the final reports to dnata Singapore as part of a joint-degree programme with the Singapore Management University (SMU) and Spain’s IE Business School (IE). Over the past ten months, dnata engaged and guided these students who are also working professionals from Singapore and around the world in consulting projects facilitated by the two higher education institutions.

The students, all with working experience in diverse areas and a mix of professional backgrounds, undertook the projects as part of their MBA programme to demonstrate their thought and apply what they have learnt. Such collaboration also allows companies like dnata to leverage the students’ varied backgrounds and their academic teachings to provide fresh perspectives, analysis and insights to real business challenges and develop viable solutions. The topics covered included research on regional market expansion and the implementation of innovative ideas within the business.

Dirk Goovaerts, Regional CEO for Asia Pacific, dnata said: “We are pleased to have embarked on this meaningful collaboration with the IE-SMU MBA programme as a learning platform for its MBA candidates, whilst benefitting from the breadth of thought and insights on some future plans for dnata. Our company is committed to the continuous partnership between industry and the academic world as we recognise its role in driving local and regional economic development.”

Prof. Shantanu Bhattacharya, Deputy Dean of Programmes at SMU’s Lee Kong Chian School of Business commented: “The dnata projects provided our students the exceptional opportunity to practice their newly acquired skills in real-world projects, as well as undertake practical market research and apply best-practice methods with the support of experienced faculty advisors. We are pleased that our students have been able to contribute fresh insights to dnata’s business, and look forward to more collaboration in the future.”