i think if he has been ur peer or supervisor at work it would help
just my thoughts

raosuman wrote:Will having an alumni of the business school improve chances of admission? i.e. A colleague of mine is an HBS grad, and is willing to write a recommendation, but we do not work directly together. I would potentially replace a former direct supervisor recommendation with the alumnus. Thoughts?

The strongest recommendations can speak directly and specifically to you at your best in professional situations. Unless the person is a major donor or has some other "pull" with their alma mater, I would choose a recommender who is a direct supervisor.

Would the alum be willing to send in an additional letter of support? Sometimes this can be helpful, but it needs to be very subtle; short and sweet is the best for those.

Good luck -
Jennifer