Make time for life-changing experiences
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Many different adjectives are used to describe the benefits of the Kellogg-HKUST executive MBA (EMBA), but “transformational” tends to crop up more often than most.
That’s because the programme gives executives the skills and know-how to succeed at the highest levels of international business. But it also challenges them to consider different methods, priorities and perspectives every step.
“I’ve gained a much broader and deeper understanding of the key functions within an organisation,” says Bryan Bos of the KH20 class, graduating this year. “As a result, I’m able to relate and respond more efficiently in cross-functional meetings and activities.”
Bos had clear reasons for choosing the programme. He wanted to work smarter, and be able to adapt faster to a rapidly changing environment in which new technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are playing a bigger role. Bos had previously taken other Kellogg executive education courses, and was keen to build on those experiences and take things further.
“I found the applied learning exercises and group assignments really helpful in reinforcing lessons and inspiring practical insights,” Bos says. “In particular, lessons from the modules on accounting and operations have proved very useful in developing performance metrics for the new function I’m building.
“Already, on multiple occasions, I’ve applied something I learned from the course to aspects of strategy, and to making key decisions,” he says. Bos recently took up a new post as director of global sales and operation planning for SRAM, a bicycle component manufacturing company he has been with for 16 years.
Like many of his classmates, Bos initially found balancing work, study, and family commitments quite a challenge. At first, it meant a lot of early mornings and late nights to keep up with written assignments and reading case studies. It also required careful planning of business travel to avoid clashes with class weekends.
“Prioritisation was the key to making it work and, thankfully, my family was incredibly supportive, and so was my employer,” Bos says. “There is never a perfect time to take an EMBA, so you must be prepared to juggle all your commitments. Taking this programme is such a privilege. It really broadens your horizons, and it will be one of the best decisions you ever make.”
Bos is expecting to move from Taiwan to the SRAM head office in Chicago. He is confident he possesses the skill sets and all-round expertise to make a big success of the transition.
“In my industry, there’s a race to be first in markets where brands have yet to establish a digital relationship with consumers,” he says. “I foresee significant investments in the areas of consumer connectivity, supply chain assets and AI to improve efficiencies in delivering products to the end user.”
