Zaheer Muhammed studied a Global Part-time MBA at AMBS and graduated in 2016.
Since completing his MBA, he has experienced continuous professional growth while working for Siemens. Now, he's working as VP Country Business Development and Head of Sales & Vertical Markets, based in Canada.
He says how the Global MBA was instrumental in advancing his career in several key ways.
Why I chose AMBS for my MBA
I did a lot of research into several MBA options; I shortlisted 3 schools - one of them being Alliance Manchester Business School.
It was a tough decision as all the options I investigated offered their own unique value. After careful consideration, I opted for AMBS due to the:
- Flexible structure of the Global Part-time MBA
- Global ranking
- Course structure
- Opportunity to attend workshops in different parts of the world, which I knew would expand my professional network.
My experience on the MBA
The Global MBA was enriching and transformative. The international setup allowed me to attend workshops in international locations such as Dubai, Manchester and Singapore.
This global exposure not only broadened my cultural perspective, but also enhanced my understanding of international business practices and gave me the opportunity to network with peers from various industries and cultural backgrounds. I enhanced by soft skills, travelled, networked, and made friends across the globe.
How the MBA helped my career
The MBA already started helping my career while I was on it. During the programme I was offered a promotion as Director of Sales with Siemens WLL Qatar.
Since completing my Global MBA, my professional growth has been phenomenal - both in the Middle East and with Siemens Canada over the last seven years.
The Global Part-time MBA advanced my career in several ways:
- Strategic insights and advanced management skills
These skills I acquired from the programme have enabled me to take on more complex and impactful roles within Siemens. The emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership prepared me to tackle the unique challenges of the global market, driving innovation and operational excellence in my areas of responsibility.
- The global perspective I gained from my MBA helped with my transition to Canada
The diverse and multicultural environment of the programme allowed me to seamlessly adapt to new business contexts and work effectively with international teams. This adaptability has been crucial in navigating the Canadian market and contributing to my organisation’s success in a competitive landscape.
- The MBA enhanced my ability to lead and inspire teams
The leadership training and collaborative projects provided during the programme are skills I still utilise today with my team's dynamics and productivity in my professional roles. The MBA gave me the knowledge that has helped me to mentor and guide my colleagues - fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development across the teams.
The Global MBA not only provided me with the technical, managerial and leadership skills required for my roles - it instilled a global mindset that has been pivotal in my professional journey and continuous growth.
It has empowered me to achieve sustained career growth and make meaningful contributions to my everyday work. Still today I am using the financial literacy, strategy knowledge, business acumen enhancement and I have mastered the art of asking quality questions in the workplace.
Advice to those seeking an MBA
My advice to anyone looking to do an MBA would be:
- Have a gap between graduation from your first degree and going for an MBA - earn some professional experience before embarking on an MBA journey. This will help you to connect with the courses, group discussions and assignments effectively.
- Be bold and take risks, growth is never in anyone's comfort zone.
- Learn the art of learn, unlearn and relearn.
The MBA is an investment in yourself. If you are even thinking about it, do it.
