Highlights from the 2025 Annual Conference of the GEM DBA China Alumni Association in Shanghai

The Grenoble Ecole de Management DBA China Alumni Association successfully held its 2025 Annual Conference in Shanghai on September 13–14, bringing together a dynamic community of alumni, faculty, and thought leaders to celebrate achievements and foster future collaborations.

Since its inception, the GEM DBA program in China has partnered with prestigious institutions such as Tsinghua University, Sun Yat-sen University, Tongji University, and Chongqing University. These collaborations have led to the graduation of 164 DBA candidates—primarily accomplished entrepreneurs and senior executives—who now form a powerful network driving innovation and economic growth across China.

This year’s conference featured a rich program of events and recognitions:

• Keynote Addresses by Prof. Dana Brown, Dean, Global and Corporate Engagement , and Prof. Jeff Yan, Director of China DBA Programs and Director of China Development, set the tone for the conference with insights on global engagement and strategic development.
• Degree Conferral Ceremonies honored four graduates who completed their viva online between 2022 and 2024, marking a significant milestone in their academic journey.
• Outstanding Alumni Awards were presented to seven alumni for their exceptional contributions in industrial leadership, social impact, and academic excellence.
• Alumni Contribution Awards recognized four individuals for their unwavering support of the association and generous sponsorship of alumni initiatives.
• The Innovation and Development Forum showcased presentations from 12 alumni on cutting-edge topics including chip manufacturing, artificial intelligence, electric industrial vehicles, drone commercialization, and industrial digital transformation. These discussions sparked cross-sector collaboration and inspired new ideas for future partnerships.
• The conference concluded with a spectacular gala dinner held in a banquet hall on the iconic Bund, celebrating the strength and unity of the GEM DBA community.

Under the leadership of Prof. Jeff Yan, the China DBA Alumni Association continues to thrive through company visits, thematic exchanges, professional forums, and social events. The association remains committed to deepening alumni engagement, promoting the GEM brand, and expanding the global impact of the DBA program.

Notably, the entire event—costing €45,000—was fully sponsored by Chinese DBA alumni, reflecting their strong commitment and pride in the GEM community.

Looking ahead, the next annual conferences are scheduled to take place in Shenzhen (2026) and Guangzhou (2027), promising continued momentum and meaningful connections.