Christian Canlas

Could you share something unexpected or a fun fact about you?

I’d like to think I’m mysterious, but I’m apparently very predictable. I’m a proud creature of habit who leans all the way in once I find something I love. It’s always a Jollibee Hotdog and Burger Steak for breakfast, my daily Iced Americano (formerly a Grande Oat Caramel Macchiato), Shabu Baru nights with chuck roll and extra bok choy, or building a wardrobe of the same outfit in every colour.

Tell us about yourself, and how you got to where you are today, both on a professional and personal level?

I try to keep my life simple, even if my calendar rarely is. I have never liked rigid routines because I enjoy being spontaneous, yet I have realised that having a sense of order over my choices brings me a quiet joy. Whether I am deciding what to wear or making a big life move, I find that being intentional makes even the busiest days feel manageable.

Choosing my path in school was straightforward. I was always comfortable with numbers, so Applied Mathematics at Ateneo de Manila felt like a natural fit. I wanted an environment that valued discipline and faith as much as academics. After graduation, I followed those numbers into banking and eventually found my way into sales. As someone who genuinely enjoys interacting with people, whether pitching a financial product or debating an interesting idea, sales turned out to be the perfect mix of logic and human connection for me.

My journey hasn't always been smooth. There have been plenty of challenges, detours and uncertainties, but staying true to my roots and my purpose has kept me steady.

Today, I lead Markets Corporate Sales for the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam at Standard Chartered Bank. I am currently on a short-term assignment in Bangkok, having moved from Manila to Singapore three years ago. Between work, travel and my INSEAD studies, it is a very busy chapter, but I am truly grateful for it.

What led you to decide to pursue an Executive MBA, and why did you choose INSEAD in particular?

The dream of an MBA followed me for years, even while I was building a career in banking and holding a master’s in mathematical finance. I eventually realised that what I was missing wasn't more technical training, but the chance to grow as a global strategic leader and see the world beyond finance.

At the peak of my career, taking time off didn't seem possible. But as I gained more experience, I reached a point where I felt ready to evolve. An Executive MBA became the next step to increase my impact.

Moving to Singapore happened just as the world was changing quickly, and INSEAD stood out as the right fit. I was drawn to the cross-cultural management, experiential learning and the focus on how to lead well. It is exactly what I need to move from being a specialist to a senior leader who can drive meaningful and transformational change.

The extensive classes and the diverse people I meet challenge me to think differently and question my own assumptions.

 With campuses in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, INSEAD gives me a real look at how business works in different markets.  

This is vital for me since I’m already leading projects across different borders.

Equally valuable is INSEAD’s global alumni network, which connects me to an exceptional community of professionals, mentors and collaborators. These relationships will not only enrich my learning journey but also create long-term opportunities for personal and professional growth.

How would you describe your experience so far? What is your impression of the faculty, the curriculum, and your fellow participants?

Strangely enough, I have never felt so young. It isn’t just because I’m back in school, but because I have the rare chance to rediscover myself while using the experience I’ve already gained. It feels like hitting the reset button, but with much better judgment and confidence this time.

Being part of such a diverse and accomplished cohort has been both exciting and humbling. Imagine being constantly surrounded by brilliant, curious and driven individuals from all over the world, each bringing a distinct perspective to every conversation. Paired with a world-class faculty that challenges your thinking, stretches your imagination and occasionally dismantles your assumptions, INSEAD provides the kind of learning environment I was looking for. It is intellectually stimulating, deeply rewarding, intense yet surprisingly fun.

The workload is heavy, but learning with people who are also at the top of their fields makes the late nights and debates enjoyable. I’m already halfway through the programme, and instead of looking forward to the end, I’m actually sad it will eventually be over. It has been that good.

Can you share a little about your application process and what you found most helpful and challenging during your preparation?

When I decided to apply for the INSEAD GEMBA, my mindset was clear. If I were going to do this, I wanted to do it right. It felt like a “now or never” moment.

At first, the application looked long and daunting. But once I started, I found it was actually quite structured and easy to follow. I managed it by finding a rhythm. During the week, I stayed focused on my job, and on weekends, I switched gears to work on my essays and study for the executive assessment.

There were definitely times when I felt stretched thin, especially while balancing work with test preparation. I came close to feeling overwhelmed, but whenever I felt that way, I just reminded myself why I wanted this. That focus helped me stay disciplined and keep moving through the tougher days.

Looking back, the process was a test of how much I really wanted it. It was a challenge, but it was also satisfying to see it through, much like the programme itself has been so far.

What advice would you give to someone who might be interested in pursuing an INSEAD programme?

If I could pass on some advice, it would be the same two steps that helped me.

First, do your homework. Look closely at the programmes, the schedule and the different campuses. The more you understand how it actually works, the more confident you will feel when you finally apply.

Second, and more importantly, talk to people. Reach out to the school team, current students and alums. Ask them the things you’re worried about: Can I really balance this with work? Is it the right fit for me? Usually, these conversations give you the clarity you need to finally go for it.

Most of all, just be bold. If you feel like this is the right move, trust that feeling and take the first step. It is a big commitment, but it is one that stays with you for life.