I had worked for 20 years in heavy industry, mainly with large steel companies. I am a trained metallurgical engineer and I started my career in engineering, later moving over to sales and then marketing. Working in marketing gave me a more complete perspective about the business, particularly how to develop strategies and promote business cases. I am someone who has never been intimidated to pursue new challenges and I saw the next step of my career to be in executive management.
This next step required base knowledge I felt I needed in areas I was less familiar with, such as finance and human resources. In addition, I was interested in working on boards to help companies with their business strategy and marketing. I, therefore, felt an MBA would give me the business fundamentals and methods to be able to propel my business rapidly and confidently to where it needed to go.
I have often learned what needed to be done in the field and through research, which proved to be time consuming. I knew that the job I wanted to move up to would likely not provide the learning time I felt I needed to really excel at the position. I also wanted to move to the next level with confidence, knowing that I was making sound decisions backed by proven methods.
At this stage in my career, I felt the Executive MBA was the best path for me to take since I would be working with peers that have experience in business and are able to discuss topics with greater depth. In each new position I have taken throughout my career, I have always aspired to grow, learn more and push myself to new limits. I was at a point where I knew the next step was going to be a big one – and I wanted to be ready for it!
What attracted you to the John Molson Executive MBA?
What first attracted me to the John Molson EMBA was their focus on case-based learning. You study alongside experienced professionals to discuss relevant topics and best ways to tackle real business problems.
I was not looking for a theory-based MBA, which would not generate such deep learning that case-based learning creates. The program brings together a diverse group of professionals, giving rise to rich class discussions supported by diverging points of view. So you benefit from this convergence of extensive professional experience and culture from perspectives that you would not otherwise be exposed to.
Thinking more tactically, I also liked the program format. The quick, 20-month timeline allowed me to complete the program swiftly. The full day of classes each week, scheduled on alternating Fridays and Saturdays, provided a nice balance between my personal and professional life. Between the short and long weeks, the flexibility in the schedule allowed me to balance my performance at work and my time to spend at home with friends and family. The fact that the program takes a break during the summer also allows you to recharge your batteries and regain your strength and drive to perform at your maximum potential in the final two terms.
How do you integrate what you learned in the program to your current job?
From early on in the program, I managed to incorporate the latest research and new approaches to my work. As EMBA students work while studying, we were able to practice what we were learning in real time on the job. When I was working in Marketing, I was able to develop a more analytical approach and use methods learned in class to look at my company’s marketing plan with different glasses. Being able to apply in-class learning to the workplace also provided faster confirmation that the approaches we were using were the right ones and when we should really push our initiatives with confidence.
In my latest role in Business Development, the EMBA provided the backbone of my abilities to: build financial plans for business perspectives; approach partnerships looking at the strategic fit and best options for all partners; and the leadership to read others and maximize performance from all parties.
How did the John Molson Executive MBA impact your career progression?
I am someone who is not afraid of taking risks – in my career that is. I have changed companies and roles from technical, to sales, and then marketing. When I joined the program, I was at a point in my life – working in a male-dominated industry – where I felt I had reached the glass ceiling. I did not feel confident that I would be able to break through that glass ceiling without an EMBA. This program gave me the reassurance I needed – I now know the value that I bring to the business world and that I can branch out beyond my area of expertise to lead with confidence.
When I changed roles during my studies to become Director of Business Development, it was in an industry that I was less familiar with. The EMBA gave me the tools and confidence that I needed to pursue this career change. This new position has exposed me to board committees, bringing me closer to my goal of doing board work. The Executive MBA has opened doors, allowing me to follow my dreams and expand my career opportunities.
How has this program transformed you?
John Molson Beta Gamma Sigma ceremony with Dean Croteau, June 20 2023. Photo credit: Allen McInnis 2023