The Beyond Business School experience: an interview with Gabriela Roman, Transfer Pricing Manager

Hello, Gabriela! Thank you for accepting our invitation to join the conversation today about your experience at Beyond Business School. Let’s offer our readers some information about you. 

What is your role within the company and how did your growth journey look like, up until now?

Hello to you all! I am currently a Transfer Pricing Manager within the Tax Department of Forvis Mazars in Romania. I joined the company in 2016 and through the years I’ve gradually progressed through each level: Junior Consultant, Senior Consultant, Assistant Manager, reaching the point that I’m in right now.

This journey has been shaped by continuous learning, various client experiences and the opportunity to work alongside inspiring colleagues. Each stage challenged me to grow not only technically, but also in terms of leadership, project management and client relationship building.

How did this opportunity come about for you, and what were your thoughts when it was presented to you?

The program was recommended to me by a member of the senior leadership team, who believed it would significantly contribute to my development.

When it was first presented to me, I was both curious and a bit hesitant, mainly due to the packed schedule. However, the program’s structure, its practical approach, and the chance to connect with professionals from different industries convinced me it was worth it. In hindsight, it was a good decision because it challenged my thinking and gave me a fresh perspective on leadership and business.

Take us through your study experience: how was the program structured, what were the topics you handled?

The study experience at Beyond Business School was dynamic, practical, and very well-structured. The learning journey was divided into thematic modules, each focusing on a key area of business, such as business strategy and change management, marketing strategies, sales, corporate finance, artificial intelligence, public speaking, building teams, venture capital and start-up valuation.

Each module combined theory with real-world application. What I appreciated the most was the balance between structured content and open dialogue. It created a safe space to challenge ideas, reflect, and grow.

We also worked on a capstone project, which allowed us to integrate everything we learned into a real business solution.

What surprised you about the whole experience?

I was surprised by how quickly a sense of trust and connection was built within the group. The openness, the diversity of perspectives and the willingness to be vulnerable created a truly unique environment for learning and growth.

Also, the introspective moments, where we were encouraged to reflect on our values, leadership style, and personal purpose were not something I had expected from a business program, but they turned out to be some of the most powerful and important aspects of the experience.

What were the key takeaways and lessons you plan to implement into your professional or personal life?

One of the key takeaways for me was the importance of intentional leadership. The program challenged me to reflect not just on what I do as a professional, but how and why I do it.

I also gained a deeper appreciation for the power of collaboration across disciplines. Working with people from diverse industries and backgrounds taught me how much innovation comes from stepping outside of your comfort zone.

On a personal level, I realised the value of slowing down and reconnecting with what truly motivates me. The program encouraged self-awareness and helped me clarify what brings me fulfillment. It reminded me that sustainable performance comes when you align your work with your values and prioritise your mental and emotional well-being.

This year marks an important milestone in our journey as a company, as we are celebrating three decades of trust on the local market.

What is your definition of trust and how important is this element within your team? Did you gain some new perspective of the term during your time at Beyond Business School?

I believe there is a strong connection between what I learned at Beyond Business School and the values that have sustained Forvis Mazars for 30 years on the Romanian market. Trust, being able to adapt, and continuous learning are essential both for personal development and for a company’s long-term success.

To me, trust means consistency, integrity, and the confidence that you can rely on others, even when things are uncertain. It’s not built overnight, but through small actions repeated over time - showing up, listening, delivering on promises and supporting each other through challenges.

Within my team, trust is the foundation that allows us to work efficiently, give honest feedback, and grow together. It creates a safe environment where people feel empowered to make decisions and share ideas openly.

During my time at Beyond Business School, I gained a deeper appreciation of how trust goes beyond competence. It’s also about emotional connection, vulnerability, and shared purpose. In a diverse group of professionals, trust was what allowed us to challenge one another constructively and to learn at a deeper level.

Thank you for your insights, Gabi! Let’s offer our readers something to take away and keep after discovering your story. Maybe a piece of advice at the start of their career or an important lesson to consider?

My advice for anyone at the beginning of their career is to stay curious and never stop asking questions. Don’t rush the process, because growth takes time and each stage has something valuable to teach you. Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

One lesson I’ve learned along the way is that confidence is built, not given. Early in your career, it’s normal to feel unsure or to ask questions, but the key is to show up and stay open to learning.