Two members of the Grenoble Ecole de Management DBA Class of 2024, Dr. Diana Lenko and Dr. Bienvenu Mandro, share their experiences navigating the challenges and rewards of doctoral study while leading in dynamic, global industries. Their stories reflect the diversity, rigor, and transformative impact of the GEM DBA.
Diverse Professional Backgrounds
Dr. Diana Lenko brings over 15 years of international experience in Fortune 500 companies, primarily in high-tech settings. Based in Silicon Valley, she is currently pushing the boundaries of advanced technology for next-generation AI solutions.
Dr. Bienvenu Mandro has 14 years of experience, beginning as a structural design engineer before moving into senior management roles in the telecom sector. He is now Co-founder and CEO of his own company, partnering with major multinationals in the Democratic Republic of Congo and internationally.
Research with Real-World Relevance
At GEM, both alumni tackled research topics closely tied to their professional realities:
Dr. Lenko’s thesis:
“Insecure Attachment in the Workplace: Implications for Trust in the Leader and Quality of Leader-Member Exchanges Among U.S. Workers”
She explored how individual differences, such as attachment orientations, shape trust and effectiveness in leader-subordinate relationships within U.S. workplaces.
Dr. Mandro’s thesis:
“Political Risk Management in Weak Institutional Environments”
His research focused on how multinational corporations manage political risks to operate and survive in challenging environments, using the Democratic Republic of Congo as a case study.
Balancing Life, Work, and the DBA
Both graduates faced the challenge of balancing demanding professional roles, family life, and rigorous academic requirements:
Dr. Lenko:
“I was juggling a demanding job in the tech industry, teaching MBA courses, and still trying to make time for family and personal life. Collecting enough data for my research while staying focused felt like hitting a moving target in a fog.”
Dr. Mandro:
“I had a demanding full-time job, a big family with four children who needed my time and attention, and significant responsibilities in both my community and professional organizations. Juggling all of this alongside a rigorous academic program often felt overwhelming and exhausting. There were moments when I questioned whether I could keep up with everything.”
Secrets to Success
Both alumni credit their perseverance to strong discipline, effective time management, and the support of the GEM community:
Dr. Lenko:
“First, I leaned heavily on time management. Every hour had a purpose. Second, I stayed in regular contact with my thesis advisor and classmates, never hesitating to ask questions or admit when I was stuck. Finally, I tried to keep my goal in sight: finishing a study that could help real-world organizations.”
Dr. Mandro:
“Effective time management, strong discipline, solid organization, and resilience were essential. In addition, I was fortunate to have very supportive supervisors who consistently encouraged me to keep going and provided timely, constructive feedback. Their support made a big difference throughout the journey.”
Why the DBA Was Worthwhile
Despite the challenges, both found the DBA journey transformative and rewarding:
Dr. Lenko:
“Even though it was not easy, this journey taught me resilience and the value of good research. I also discovered new insights about leader-subordinate relationships that can benefit businesses right away.”
Dr. Mandro:
“Completing a DBA was definitely challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. My research was closely tied to my daily work, which made the learning experience very practical and relevant. It gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges I face and how to navigate the business environment more effectively. And of course, earning the title of ‘Dr.’ adds a sense of accomplishment-it builds credibility and earns respect in academic and professional settings.”
Life After the DBA
Dr. Lenko is at the forefront of AI innovation in Silicon Valley and teaches MBA classes.
“My research continues to shape how I approach leadership development and organizational behavior, and I love finding ways to bring these lessons into the classroom and industry.”
Dr. Mandro is working on several publications with his supervisors, exploring opportunities to teach as a part-time professor, and continuing to manage and grow his business.
“The DBA has truly expanded both my academic and professional horizons.”
Advice for Prospective DBA Candidates
Both alumni offer candid advice for those considering the DBA journey:
Dr. Lenko:
“Be prepared for a marathon, not a sprint. Choose a research topic that genuinely excites you-you’ll be living with it for years. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support; your advisors and peers are invaluable. Most importantly, stay disciplined and celebrate the small wins along the way.”
Dr. Mandro:
“Understand that the DBA is a significant commitment that will test your time management and resilience. Build a strong support network and stay organized. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination-embrace the learning process and keep your long-term goals in sight.”
Dr. Lenko and Dr. Mandro’s stories highlight the practical relevance, academic excellence, and transformative impact of the GEM DBA-equipping leaders to thrive, innovate, and inspire in a world of constant change.
- DBA
