A word from the president

As an academic institution with grand ambitions, 2024 was a significant year for BI. In 2024, we developed BI's new strategy for the next five years, Strategy 2030, which lays the foundation for how we will continue to be a world-leading international business school and a leader in delivering high-quality international education and research in the future. 

To succeed with Strategy 2030, it was necessary to reconsider how we are organised at BI. Last year, we devoted considerable time to developing a new organisational structure, which was implemented at the end of the year. I am convinced that these changes will help realise our strategic ambitions. I know how demanding organisational changes can be, and I am impressed by how my colleagues have met these changes. 

At BI, we have a slogan saying, "BI cares about where you are going, not where you come from". In a world where knowledge is constantly evolving, everyone must have the opportunity to study and develop new knowledge. That is why I am very pleased that last year, we were able to welcome a record number of students to BI. 

One of BI's key strengths is our close ties to the business world. Through collaboration with business and social actors, we contribute with teaching that is practically relevant for students while future employers get to know potential employees. Every year, we have the pleasure of receiving visits from representatives from business and social life, emphasising that BI is an important arena for knowledge exchange. With my Finnish roots, it was a personal highlight to welcome Finland's President Alexander Stubb at BI in October. This was part of Finland's state visit to Norway, accompanied by the Crown Prince and other representatives from Norwegian and Finnish business and organisational life.

In August 2024, Egil Hogna assumed the role of chairman of BI. I know that his experience and expertise from the business world will benefit BI and underscore our position as the business school of the business world. 

The quality of our work is also reflected in our accreditations and international rankings. I would particularly like to highlight the Financial Times ranking from last year, in which BI is ranked as the best Norwegian business school and number two in the Nordic region in their European school ranking for 2024. Last year, we were also reaccredited by AACSB. The AACSB accreditation represents one of the highest accolades for business schools globally, confirming our status as a "Triple Crown" school, alongside only 1% of the world's business schools. 

I am incredibly proud of the work that goes into our organisation every day. Thank you to all the employees who come to work every day to help deliver knowledge that makes a difference. Finally, a huge thank you to all our partners for everything you have contributed to the past year.

Karen Spens
President