"I have great respect for Karen’s decision and would have liked to continue the strong collaboration we have had. She has done an excellent job as President of BI, and I fully understand her wish to return to academic work after what will be more than 11 years as the top leader at Hanken and then BI," says Chair of the Board Egil Hogna.
Wants to make the most of her final year
“I have had some very good years at BI, and it is a privilege to lead such a professional, complex, and international organisation. It has therefore been a difficult decision, but I have concluded that the time is right for a new chapter in my career. I didn’t become a professor to remain a president for life. I miss academic work and look forward to returning to an academic role at BI, while also continuing my international engagement through various board roles,” says Spens.
“I still have one year left in the role as President. We are well underway with the implementation of our new strategy, and I will be fully focused on continuing this work in collaboration with my top management group and the rest of the organisation.”
During Spens’ tenure as President, BI has seen two consecutive years of record-high application numbers and strong performance in international rankings. The school has also gained increased global visibility, in part due to her active international roles and extensive global network. In addition, she has led the development of the school’s new strategy toward 2030.
Recruitment process for new president to begin in Autumn 2025
The recruitment process for a new President will begin this autumn. The appointment is formally made by the Board.
“The Board will ensure a thorough and solid process to find the right person to take over from Karen. In the meantime, we are pleased that she will remain in the role for another year,” says Hogna.