Salima Hibat-Allah   

 “Physician-turned-strategist passionate about bridging medicine and business to advance radiology and healthcare”

Graduation Year: HEC Paris Class of 2024

Current Role: Product Lead MRI Contrast Media Radiology Germany – Bayer Vital – Consultant Radiologist

Why did you decide to pursue an Executive MBA?

Coming from a medical and radiology background, I wanted to broaden my perspective beyond clinical practice. My main motivation was to gain strategic, leadership and business skills to complement my scientific expertise, and to open new doors in healthcare innovation and industry.

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 explored different programs, some more healthcare-oriented and others more general. I had always heard about HEC’s global reputation, its strong healthcare-related alumni network, and the diversity of its cohort. The program structure and the specializations were also key factors that convinced me to choose HEC.

Which intake did you join?

November 2022, as it aligned with a moment in my career when I had more time to focus on it.

How did you balance the demands of work, family, and the program while studying?

It was a constant balancing act. The workload was intense, but discipline, prioritization, and a supportive environment made it possible. I learned to manage time with precision and to focus on what truly creates value—both at work and at home.

How did you tailor your learning experience?

I oriented my learning around the healthcare management specialization, taking advantage of the international modules to compare different health systems and business models. These experiences helped me connect my medical expertise with global business practices.

What’s a standout memory from your time at HEC Paris?

The teamwork. I remember working with classmates from diverse industries—debating, disagreeing, and ultimately building solutions together. The intensity, diversity of thought, and shared purpose were unforgettable. It also broadened my perspective and opened my horizons beyond healthcare, teaching me to apply a structured framework for thinking across any industry.

What are some of the biggest takeaways you gained from the experience?

I gained the ability to think strategically under pressure, to lead diverse teams, and to translate complex technical or scientific topics into clear, impactful business decisions. The program also strengthened my resilience and adaptability.

How has the program helped you grow personally or professionally since graduating?

The EMBA was a turning point. It allowed me to transition from practicing radiology to leading a global product in radiology at Bayer. It gave me the confidence and the framework to combine my medical expertise with strategic leadership.

Is this the industry and role you envisioned yourself when you entered the program?

Not really. I had never envisioned working as a product lead and preparing the launch of a product for one of the largest markets in Europe. My goal was to move toward industry within healthcare, but the EMBA accelerated the process and opened opportunities I hadn’t imagined.

What advice would you share with someone thinking about pursuing an Executive MBA?

Pursuing an EMBA changes you deeply—you end up questioning every part of your life. It’s also a special moment to reflect on what you have already achieved and to put words to it. It requires a lot of effort, time, and compromise, but if you truly invest in yourself, it is absolutely worth it. And if you already have a project in mind, just go for it—you will never again have the opportunity to take such a deep dive as you do during the EMBA.

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