Building Digital Bridges:
Céline Solenthaler on Connectivity, Transformation, and Commitment to the EMBA HSG Community

What motivated you to become part of the EMBA HSG Alumni Board – and what role would you like to take on there?

The EMBA was an intensive, enriching time for me – both professionally and personally. The community gave me a lot and I want to give something back. On the Board, I can contribute my experience in the field of digitalisation and help to further develop our network in a future-oriented way.

You are responsible for platforms on the Executive Board. What do you mean by this – and what are your goals in this area?

For me, platforms are more than just tools; they are meeting spaces. It’s about using digital channels to promote dialogue among alumni, share knowledge and keep the community spirit alive between physical events. I want to create new opportunities for us to network better, inspire and support each other.

You are professionally involved in the digitalisation of the Zurich City Police. What particularly appeals to you about this topic?

Digitalisation is often equated with IT or new technologies. However, the real challenge lies in the change process that goes hand in hand with digitalisation: processes have to be rethought, procedures changed and people taken on board. It’s demanding, but that’s exactly what makes it exciting for me.

Where do you see parallels between your professional work and your involvement in the alumni association?

Both roles are about connecting people. Digitalisation is never an end in itself; rather, it should simplify and strengthen cooperation. That’s exactly what I want to achieve in the alumni association: facilitating dialogue, sharing knowledge and creating connections that are sustainable – both digitally and personally.

What defines the EMBA community for you – and what would you personally like to contribute?

For me, the EMBA community is a strong network of personalities with very different backgrounds and that’s exactly what makes it so exciting. It is important to me that we utilise the potential of this community even more. I want to help shape formats that bring us even closer together – even beyond the study period.

How important is dialogue within the EMBA community to you – and how can this be strengthened via digital channels?

Very important! We have so many great members and valuable contacts often go unused. Digital channels offer us the chance to network much more often than just at physical events. Between events, we should actively create opportunities to learn from, inspire and support each other. There is still a lot of potential.

What does lifelong learning mean to you – and how does your EMBA background help you in your everyday life?

In a world that is constantly changing, we must not stand still. For me, learning means staying curious, listening and being open to new perspectives – whether through books, discussions, further training or on the job. The EMBA was an important source of inspiration for me on this path.

When you’re not working on digital topics or involved in the Board of Directors, where can you be found?

I spend a lot of time with my family in the Engadin; it’s our ‘happy place’. I’m also learning to play golf and have recently become a proud allotment garden owner and enthusiastic hobby gardener. For me, working in the garden is not only an ideal balance to all the sitting at work, but also a great opportunity to get in touch with the neighbourhood and actively help shape the local community.