Fernando Freire Dutra, who has a master’s degree in public management and policy from the Sao Paulo School of Business Administration (FGV EAESP) and is director of the Southern Brazil Regional Development Bank (BRDE), is embarking on a remarkable academic journey as he begins his second master’s degree, this time in international business and policy, at Georgetown University. His trajectory exemplifies the transformative impact of education on a professional’s career and highlights the successful connection between academia and the job market.

As director of BRDE, Brazil’s second largest development bank, Fernando is focusing on strengthening the bank’s international links and structuring public-private partnership and concession projects in order to boost economic and social development in the southern states of Brazil, while also thinking about long-term sustainability. He points out that the theoretical foundations and analytical skills acquired during his first master’s degree at FGV have been fundamental in meeting the challenges of his current position and contributing to BRDE’s success.

“The education acquired during the Professional Master’s in Public Management and Policy (MPGPP) provided a comprehensive understanding of political, economic and social dynamics, as well as analytical and strategic skills that are applicable in diverse contexts. Above all, the program strengthened my capacity for critical analysis, understanding of public policies and strategic vision. These factors are directly linked to my current position at BRDE and are crucial for effective action in complex and dynamic environments, such as the financial and economic development sectors,” he adds.

Fernando’s first semester at Georgetown was marked by a deep immersion in the world of international trade and global politics. Subjects such as International Economics provided him with a comprehensive understanding of economic globalization and business strategies on a global scale. In addition, his network of contacts has expanded considerably at the university, providing him with valuable insights and opportunities to collaborate with professionals and academics. “The interaction with highly qualified professors and experienced professionals from the Walsh School of Foreign Service and the McDonough School of Business has been extraordinary. I’m meeting people of different nationalities and from different sectors. I have classmates from places as diverse as Colombia, Saudi Arabia, Nicaragua, Ghana, Mexico, Italy and Germany,” says Fernando.

Fernando also says that the MPGPP at FGV EAESP was fundamental to his entry into Georgetown, highlighting the solid theoretical basis and analytical skills acquired during the course. He points out that the knowledge and multidisciplinary approach provided by the FGV program have been valuable resources in his new academic endeavor, preparing him to face complex international challenges.

In short, Fernando’s academic journey reflects the importance of education in shaping global leaders and the effectiveness of links between academia and the job market.

Find out more about FGV EAESP’sProfessional Master’s in Public Management and Policy Program here.