Xinyue Du

IESE Business School at the University of Navarra

“Adventurous, impact-driven, and passionate about improving health and education through technology and collaboration.”

Hometown: Dalian, China

Fun Fact About Yourself: I backpacked the Silk Road from Xi’an to Istanbul, inspired by China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Undergraduate School and Major: Dalian Maritime University, Bachelor in Shipping Management. Washington University in St. Louis, Master of Science in Supply Chain Management.

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Organon, Supply Chain Project Manager.

What makes the case method so attractive as a means to learn and become a better manager? The case method challenges you to step into the shoes of decision-makers, navigate ambiguity, and justify your solutions under pressure. It fosters a collaborative learning environment where diverse perspectives enrich your understanding, honing both analytical and interpersonal skills essential for effective leadership.

What has been your favorite part of Barcelona so far? What has made it such a great place to earn an MBA? The weather, the chill vibes, and the salsa culture have been amazing! Sunny days and the relaxed atmosphere make it easy to enjoy life while tackling the MBA. Plus, getting into the salsa scene has been so much fun—it’s such a great way to unwind and connect with people. Barcelona just has this energy that makes it a fantastic place to study and grow.

Aside from your classmates and location, what was the one key part of the IESE Business School MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? IESE’s global scope and emphasis on values-driven leadership stood out. The opportunity to engage with an international cohort and study diverse business challenges aligns perfectly with my aspiration to have a positive, far-reaching impact in healthcare and beyond.

The IESE MBA is known for heavy reading and rigorous academics. Has the program lived up to its reputation? What advice would you give to first-years to help them thrive in the early months of the program? The academic rigor absolutely lives up to its reputation! My advice: prioritize your tasks, lean on your peers for support, and embrace the learning process. Approach each case with curiosity and critical thinking, but don’t forget to take a break. Balance is key— recharging helps you stay sharp and make the most of the experience.

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at IESE? Managerial Accounting has been my favorite course so far. It bridges quantitative and qualitative analysis, so we can make informed decisions that create value across functions. Professor Igor Kadach’s case-based approach transformed complex concepts into practical insights, empowering me to think critically about financial and non-financial metrics and their implications on management.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Leading a cross-functional team to redesign supply chain processes during the pandemic, ensuring uninterrupted delivery of essential medications to patients worldwide.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: Presenting a pricing strategy simulation to the team that helped my team secure the top spot in the marketing midterm project. It showcased my ability to synthesize data, collaborate effectively, and deliver impactful insights.

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? Attending the Diwali party and dancing on stage with friends has been my best MBA memory so far. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with colors, music, and laughter, was a perfect way to connect with peers outside the classroom. It showcased the global and culturally immersive experience IESE offers, bringing people together to celebrate diversity. Plus, the butter chicken was absolutely top-notch—I want to have a Diwali party every single week!

DON’T MISS: MEET IESE BUSINESS SCHOOL’S MBA CLASS OF 2026

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