The Alliance of Chinese and European Business Schools (ACE) convened its annual deans’ symposium from 17 to 19 March 2026 at ESSCA’s Lyon campus, celebrating the institution’s role as a founding member since 2013.

Under EFMD’s patronage, ACE has expanded into a leading network of 18 universities and higher education institutions dedicated to fostering Sino-European business school collaboration. In 2026, the network welcomed four new members: the University of Cyprus, the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC), Aisa Europe Business School of East China Normal University and CEIBS. This year’s symposium has drawn 10 deans.

Focus on pedagogical innovation and academic excellence

The symposium agenda centred on advancing pedagogical innovations across full-time and executive education programmes, as well as collaborative research initiatives. Members explored strategies to strengthen the synergy between research and teaching, reaffirming ACE’s collective commitment to elevating academic standards.

New leadership for 2026-2028

The 2026 symposium concluded with the annual General Assembly, during which ACE members elected Jean Charroin (ESSCA) as Chair of the Alliance for the next two-year term. He will be supported by Qiang Ye, Vice-Chair and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Business for Science and Technology and the School of Management at  USTC. On behalf of the ACE, Jean appreciated the efforts and great work of the previous Chair, Hong Zhao, during the past two years.

A word from the new Chair

“ESSCA’s unique position—operating ten campuses across Europe and China—has made it a natural bridge between our two regions since ACE’s inception. During my term, I am committed to deepening scientific and educational cooperation among our members while expanding our alliance to include new institutions renowned for their academic excellence and international standing. The recent addition of CEIBS powerfully demonstrates this ambition. Together, we will continue to support the transformation of management education on a global scale.”

— Jean Charroin, Chair of ACE

ACE remains dedicated to advancing business education excellence through cross-continental collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of best practices between China and Europe.

For additional insights, announcements and perspectives, visit the conversation on Business Education.