Leonardo Bursztyn is Divisional CFO of the Canadian specialty food manufacturing and distribution company Premium Brands Holdings. After completing the General Management Program (GMP) at Harvard Business School (HBS) Executive Education, Leonardo returned to HBS to pursue the Corporate Director Certificate. This certificate is awarded to corporate board directors who complete three qualifying programs: Audit Committees in a New Era of Governance, Compensation Committees, and Making Corporate Boards More Effective.
Can you tell us your favorite part of this experience?
Under the guidance of Professor Suraj Srinivasan, this program's faculty and staff were nothing short of extraordinary. Over the span of 10 enriching days on campus, I had the privilege of learning alongside accomplished executives hailing from various corners of the world, all within the immersive and intellectually stimulating setting of Harvard's case study environment. This unique experience cultivated a global community of exceptional leaders, providing us with an opportunity to connect with board leaders who brought diverse perspectives on business and the pivotal role of the board.
What is something that surprised you or changed the way you think?
One of the most profound moments of the program occurred during the closing session when a professor shared a poignant message that continues to resonate with me daily. We were reminded that having been bestowed with the privilege of elite education and a powerful network, it is our duty to be agents of positive change in the world. This declaration instilled in all of us a profound sense of responsibility to harness our knowledge and connections for the greater good.
What insights would you like to share with anyone considering the Corporate Director Certificate?
What truly set this program apart was the extraordinary diversity it embraced. Participants came from a wide array of industries, cultures, and countries, making it a melting pot of experiences and insights. This rich tapestry of backgrounds not only enhanced our learning but also facilitated the creation of invaluable, lifelong networks that continue to influence and shape my professional journey. Overall, my journey through the Corporate Director Certificate program at HBS was an unparalleled experience, characterized by academic rigor, international camaraderie, and a profound sense of purpose. I carry the lessons learned, and the networks forged, with me, using them as catalysts to drive positive change on every company board I am part of and to make a meaningful impact in the world.