From advising at the White House and consulting at McKinsey, to teaching for two decades at McGill and now mentoring students as Dean of the MBA and Professor of Strategy and International Management at IMD Business School, this is the story of Professor Omar Toulan.
In this episode, John and Konsti sit down with Omar to explore a career dedicated to helping others realise their potential — from reforming MBA education in the age of AI, to redefining what leadership, learning, and humility mean today. Born in Egypt, raised in the U.S., and influenced by Argentine and Egyptian roots, Omar shares how his upbringing taught him the power of tolerance, the value of hard work, and the importance of paying attention to small details.
Key Takeaways and Highlights:
Leadership Is About Serving Others: Omar’s philosophy is clear yet impactful: “Leadership is not an opportunity for self-aggrandisement — it’s a call to service.” For him, genuine leadership involves supporting others, listening intently, and remembering that “small gestures matter.”
Respect as a Foundation: Whether guiding a classroom or managing an institution, Omar emphasises the importance of mutual respect, particularly across differences. His parents belonged to different religions, yet they had 50 years of marriage built on respect. “The only thing I can’t tolerate is intolerance.”
The MBA is a “Pivot Card”: An MBA offers a rare chance to reflect deeply and recalibrate. “The MBA is a pivot card—you only get to use it once. Ask yourself the tough questions now,” Omar advises, “because once you graduate, the pivot window starts to close.”
Hard Work + Luck = Success: “Hard work matters, but luck plays a role too, and we should always be thankful,” says Omar. His honest take on success reminds us to stay grateful and grounded, especially those privileged enough to pursue an MBA.
AI Is a Tool to Enhance Human Skills, Not Replace Them: Omar is at the forefront of integrating AI into business education, but he’s clear on its limits. “AI will help you evaluate options, but don’t outsource the decision. That’s what leaders are for.” He also calls for young professionals to double down on their storytelling and presentation skills: “Beautiful PowerPoints won’t be a differentiator anymore, human skills will.”
Bringing a Personal Touch to the MBA: Whether he’s redesigning the IMD curriculum or cheering from the sidelines at the MBAT, Omar leads with warmth, presence, and intention. “I get a lot of satisfaction from helping others achieve their potential,” he says, and it shows. He’s known not just for setting direction, but for noticing the small things, encouraging students by name, and showing up when it matters. As one student put it: “Omar will always have your back—but don’t mess with him.”
Enjoy the show!
Bonus link: Omar’s favourite book - The Idea of a University by John Henry Newman
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