Tony Phan
“Strategic digital leader driving sustainable transformation through innovation, collaboration, and the intelligent use of technology”
Graduation Year: HEC Paris Class of 2023
Current Role: Head of Digital Transformation at MANE
Why did you decide to pursue an Executive MBA?
Before joining the EMBA, I wanted to step back from day-to-day execution and gain a broader strategic perspective. The program represented a unique opportunity to refine my leadership style, improve decision-making under uncertainty, and build the confidence to operate at an executive level. It was about evolving from a doer into a strategic thinker capable of shaping long-term impact.
What lead you to the HEC Paris EMBA, and how did you know this school and this program was the right fit for you?
I chose HEC Paris for its world-class reputation, the diversity and excellence of its participants, and the quality of its globally recognized faculty. I wanted to learn alongside leaders who would challenge my thinking and broaden my horizons. The school’s philosophy of “learn to dare” deeply resonated with me, as it perfectly captured my ambition to drive change through courage and innovation.
Which intake did you join?
I joined the January 2022 track which was the first to resume in-person classes after the pandemic. The program’s structure offered the perfect balance: intensive learning modules combined with time to apply new insights in my professional environment. I was also drawn to the intake’s exceptional international diversity; learning alongside peers from every continent and industry enriched my perspective and provided a truly global lens on leadership and innovation.
How did you balance the demands of work, family, and the program while studying?
It was a demanding period that required discipline, careful planning, and unwavering support from my family and colleagues. I learned to prioritize ruthlessly and focus on what truly mattered.
The experience also reshaped my leadership: I learned to delegate more effectively, empowering my teams and trusting them fully. What began as a necessity became one of my most important leadership lessons, that autonomy fuels both growth and performance.
How did you tailor your individual learning experience?
I wanted to make the most of every opportunity the EMBA offered. I chose the Digital Transformation specialization in San Francisco, in collaboration with Stanford and Berkeley universities, to deepen my understanding of Silicon Valley’s innovation ecosystems. I also participated in international mobility modules in Brazil and Saudi Arabia, gaining firsthand insight into emerging markets. Finally, I completed the Luxury Certificate at HEC Paris in partnership with LVMH, exploring how heritage and digital innovation can come together to create lasting value.
What’s a standout memory from your time at HEC Paris?
The very first module remains unforgettable. Meeting my cohort for the first time was both exciting and inspiring. Those early days were filled with meaningful conversations and the beginning of lifelong friendships that continue to inspire me today. The opening leadership session on self-awareness, featuring a 360° feedback assessment, was a true turning point. It offered powerful insights into how others perceived my leadership and helped me understand myself on a much deeper level. Then came the Business Environment class with Professor Jeremy Ghez, a brilliant introduction to navigating uncertainty in today’s complex world. It set the tone for the entire EMBA journey.
What are some of the biggest takeaways you gained from the experience?
The EMBA sharpened my strategic vision, teaching me to connect digital initiatives to long-term business strategy, customer value, and transformation at scale. Above all, it was a personal transformation: I gained confidence and clarity, redefining success not only by results, but by impact and meaning.
How has the program helped you grow personally or professionally since graduating?
My capstone focused on the future of the fragrance industry, exploring how MANE could reinvent its business model through digitalization and artificial intelligence. Since graduating, I’ve had the opportunity to bring those ideas to life, taking on a global role as Program Director for Digital Transformation at MANE, where I lead the company’s digital strategy and AI initiatives. I’m deeply grateful to MANE’s group executive board for their trust and continued support.
The EMBA was a true catalyst for change: it transformed how I approach innovation and equipped me with the strategic and leadership capabilities to drive cross-functional programs that are shaping the company’s future.
Is this the industry and role you envisioned yourself in when you first entered the program?
Not exactly, but that’s the beauty of transformation. The EMBA helped me evolve from a technical expert into a strategic leader, bridging two worlds I once thought were separate. It gave me the clarity and courage to shape my role rather than follow a predefined path.
What advice would you share with someone thinking about pursuing an Executive MBA?
Be ready to give your time and energy but stay open and curious. The more you engage with others, the more you’ll grow. Your cohort is your greatest asset: learn from them, challenge them, and build relationships that will inspire you long after graduation.
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