Qinrun Ge

Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I’m a Chartered Accountant with a decade of diverse experience in audit and corporate finance, spanning multiple industries and global locations. My life has primarily been split between Singapore and Canada. 

What made you want to embark on the INSEAD Executive Master in Finance (EMFin) programme? 

My decision to choose INSEAD was driven by several factors. Primarily, I have a strong desire to continuously enhance my skill set and to learn from the brilliant minds at a prestigious institution like INSEAD. Having previously experienced the transformative impact of an MBA at Oxford, I was eager to find that same intellectual stimulation again, which the EMFin programme offers. 

Additionally, INSEAD's strong Asian network, its campus in Singapore, and its proximity to home were significant draws. Receiving the INSEAD Singapore Scholarship further solidified my decision. 

How would you describe your experience at INSEAD?

My experience at INSEAD has been incredibly enriching. The practical insights gained in class have profoundly reshaped my understanding of finance. The programme boasts an exceptional faculty, diverse classmates, and numerous events that create a dynamic learning environment. 

Beyond the classroom, the world-class campus facilities and location within a technology hub greatly enhance the overall experience. INSEAD is not just an academic institution; it serves as a vibrant hub for professionals from similar industries or roles to connect, fostering conversations and sharing ideas that enrich everyone's knowledge.

How do you make the most out of the programme?

To maximise the programme, I recommend staying engaged, networking with classmates at events, and maintaining an open mind. Participate actively in lectures, allowing the insights gained to shape your professional journey. Embrace diverse perspectives and create connections, whether through casual drinks or shared moments after class. These relationships can transcend the programme and geographic boundaries.

Are you able to apply what you’ve learned at work?

Yes, I’ve already begun to apply several technical aspects from the EMFin programme at work. For instance, I utilise de-levering and re-levering of Beta techniques for immediate valuation purposes in my day-to-day tasks. 

On a broader conceptual level, I have gained a deeper understanding of the valuation process and its outputs, which has allowed me to adopt a more comprehensive approach to my work.

What are your future career plans after EMFin, and where do you see yourself in five years?

While I initially aimed for a traditional route to become a CFO, my aspirations have evolved significantly since joining INSEAD. Influenced by its vibrant entrepreneurial environment, I have ventured into entrepreneurship. 

Recently, I successfully raised funding and am actively working on developing innovative products. This new direction requires a comprehensive understanding of both strategic and technical financial knowledge, crucial for navigating the challenges of a startup. 

The experience at INSEAD has been transformative, providing me with the skills and confidence necessary for this journey. I’ve received invaluable advice and encouragement from mentors, professors, and peers at INSEAD, which has been instrumental in shaping my vision. 

As I continue to develop my startup, my blend of financial expertise and entrepreneurial skills positions me uniquely to tackle the dynamic challenges of the business world. This holistic approach reflects a strategic shift from a traditional finance trajectory to a broader, more entrepreneurial path, ultimately aiming to make a significant impact as a startup founder.

Any advice for those interested in joining the EMFin programme?

Consider the ideas you will encounter and the diverse individuals you will meet, as well as the meaningful conversations and friendships you will forge. Don’t overlook the joy and memorable experiences this journey will bring. Just as a company’s value lies in its intangibles, the true worth of this programme resides in those immeasurable aspects.

In essence, INSEAD's combination of academic excellence, robust networks, and proximity to Asia perfectly aligns with my aspirations for continuous learning and personal growth, making it the ideal choice for my EMFin journey.