Decoding the future

In this episode 39 of Campus 10178 podcast, host Tammi L. Coles sits down with Catalina Stefanescu-Cuntze, professor of management science and faculty lead of the Master in Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (MAAI) program at ESMT. Drawing on her background in mathematics, computer science, and operations research – together with the expertise of her fellow faculty members – Stefanescu-Cuntze explains how the MAAI program supports students in bridging technical know-how and strategic leadership.

This conversation sheds light on the program’s emphasis on applied learning, real-world projects, and collaborative innovation, equipping future leaders with deep analytical skills and a strong sense of responsibility. Stefanescu-Cuntze also explores how generative AI enhances the learning experience, promoting experimentation and critical problem-solving. 

Whether you’re a prospective student eager to master AI-driven strategies or a business leader aiming to leverage data analytics for competitive advantage, this episode offers fresh insights into the evolving world of AI education at ESMT Berlin.

Key discussion points

• Explore why the ESMT MAAI program was created and the market needs it addresses
• Discover how Professor Stefanescu-Cuntze’s background in mathematics, computer science, and operations research informs her leadership of the program
• Learn how the curriculum trains “translators” who bridge the gap between data scientists and managers
• Understand how real-world challenges are tackled through applied learning in mathematics, statistics, computation, and engineering
• See why the explosion of AI in business strategy shows “the time has finally come” for analytics
• Uncover how “learning by doing,” balanced technical-and-management focus, and expert faculty make the MAAI unique
• Hear how diverse student backgrounds and peer learning enrich everyone’s skill set
• Explore how ethics, responsible leadership, critical thinking, and generative AI (Gen AI) foster a forward-thinking approach to AI education

Guest information

Catalina Stefanescu-Cuntze is professor of management science at ESMT Berlin and the faculty lead of the Master in Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (MAAI) program. She joined ESMT in 2009 as an associate professor, becoming the first holder of the Deutsche Post DHL Chair, and has served in multiple leadership roles, including director of research (2010–2012) and dean of faculty (2012–2019). Prior to ESMT, she was assistant professor of decision sciences at London Business School. Catalina holds a PhD and MS in operations research from Cornell University and a BS in mathematics from the University of Bucharest. Her research and teaching focus on analytics and AI, and she is passionate about fostering the growth of this critical domain.

Professor Stefanescu-Cuntze welcomes individual conversations with prospective MAAI students. Email Professor Stefanescu-Cuntze directly or connect with Professor Stefanescu-Cuntze via LinkedIn.

Learn more about the MAAI

Visit the web page for detailed information about the ESMT MAAI.

Contact Campus 10178

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