SSE Riga celebrates 30th anniversary with special events and recognition of alumni impact

A recent study, SSE Riga Alumni: Impact on the Latvian Economy, highlighted the lasting influence of SSE Riga graduates across various sectors. Business management and consulting emerged as some of the most common fields for alumni, underscoring the school’s focus on strategic and analytical skills. The study revealed that SSE Riga graduates hold leadership positions in 1590 companies and are owners of 1513 companies in Latvia.
 

According to the study, the companies led by SSE Riga alumni generate a combined revenue of 11.3 billion euros, accounting for more than 10% of Latvia’s economy. These companies also employ over 43 000 individuals, demonstrating the profound contribution SSE Riga alumni make to the country’s economic development.

The impact of SSE Riga graduates is especially notable among Latvia’s largest companies. Of the 101 most valuable companies in the country, 23 are led by SSE Riga alumni, and eight alumni sit on the boards of the 10 most valuable companies in Latvia.

“SSE Riga graduates’ impact on the Latvian economy is substantial,” said Dr. Anders Paalzow, Rector of SSE Riga since 1999. “They not only lead and create companies but also foster the development of a business environment that is crucial for Latvia’s long-term growth. These accomplishments reflect our mission to prepare leaders who can enhance the Baltic region’s competitiveness.”

To commemorate this major milestone, over 1300 SSE Riga alumni gathered for a 30th Anniversary Party on November 9th, celebrating the strength and unity of the SSE Riga community.

Other 30th Anniversary events included:

• November 8, 2024: Gen Z & Leadership: What They Want and How Leaders Adapt
  Participants explored Latvia's changing workforce demographics and the urgent need to adapt to these preferences to attract and retain talent. Key themes included Gen Z's focus on purpose over titles, flexibility, environmental impact, and work-life balance.

• November 9, 2024: SSE Riga Mixed Choir Concert
  Founded in the same year as SSE Riga, the Choir has been a part of every major event over the past three decades, bringing together students, alumni, and friends.

• November 14, 2024: The 2nd Baltic Business and Public Policy Summit
  The summit brought together experts from the Baltic and Nordic regions to discuss the critical challenges and opportunities facing our economies, societies, and security. Discussions focused on regional collaboration, innovation, and adaptability to build a resilient and sustainable future.

• November 14, 2024: SSE Riga’s 30th Anniversary Concert
  The 30th Anniversary Concert featured the incredible Inese Galante, alongside a talented group of Latvian and Swedish musicians. 

Founded in 1994 through a partnership between the Stockholm School of Economics and the Latvian government, SSE Riga has become a regional leader in business education. The school upholds high academic standards and offers two accredited programmes: BSc in Economics and Business and an Executive MBA, along with Executive Education offering.

Each year, the school admits 150 students to its Bachelor’s programme and 30 to its Executive MBA programme through a competitive selection process. To date, SSE Riga has awarded degrees to 3200 alumni, with two-thirds of them hailing from Latvia.