Ben Sheppard is an account director at Aon, the NYSE-listed insurance broker - but is hoping that his London-based MBA degree will give him an edge in industry.
Compiled by Alice Riley.
Ben Sheppard is an account director at Aon, the NYSE-listed insurance broker, and is responsible for delivering market leading risk advisory and insurance broking services to offshore wind and other renewable energy clients.
He is about to begin an MBA in London, in September. In this interview, he talks to BusinessBecause about his career so far, the MBA application process, and the importance of applying to business schools early.
What did you study for your first degree, and how has your career progresses since then?
I have a degree in history from the University of Portsmouth.
I was recruited onto the Marsh Graduate Training scheme in the energy division, working on both upstream and downstream accounts in a risk advisory and insurance broking role.
I developed an interest in the new offshore wind market that was being established in the early 2000s, and began to concentrate on the risks and challenges faced by developers in this sector. By 2005, I was working exclusively with renewable energy clients with a specific focus on offshore wind. In 2008, I joined Aon to help establish their renewable energy team.
What made you decide to study for an MBA?
Having helped establish a new team in a large financial services business, I was keen to find a new challenge that would give me a broader career outlook.
After talking to a few people and doing some research, an MBA quickly became a very attractive option.
How did you research business schools?
I used a variety of sources, but mainly the internet; reading articles; looking at the rankings; and researching the MBA courses.
Cass was always my preferred destination based on several factors – I wanted to study in London, I wanted a full-time MBA [program], I have friends who have studied there, and their open evening was impressive.
What were the main stages of the application process?
Having attended an evening information session at Cass, I became very excited about the school. I immediately signed up to their
'MBA in a day' event a few weeks later. I looked at other London-based business schools and started the application process at
Imperial, too.
The application process at both involved detailed questionnaires addressing my career to date, motivations, skills and areas of development. I was also asked to write two short papers about me. Both Cass and Imperial asked for two references, and I was a little surprised at the depth of the questions that were asked of the referees.
I continued down a traditional application route at Cass which meant I had to sit the GMAT and a formal interview at the school.
Imperial was a little different as I applied for their
fast-track admissions day. This was on a Saturday and involved group discussions, a presentation and some interviews. The attraction was the chance of an offer within a few days. The event was very charged as the 30 candidates were, in effect, competing for places.
In the end I was offered a place at both Cass and Imperial, so whilst the process was very time consuming and challenging, it was worth the investment.
How did you prepare for the GMAT?
I was a little concerned as I had only given myself about two months to focus on the GMAT. Evenings and weekends were spent in a blend of learning the syllabus and reminding myself of math lessons from my school days.
I had a strong bias towards the verbal, so most of my time was spent on the math. About ten days before the test, I started to use the free online practise tests.
What advice would you give anyone thinking of applying for an MBA program?
I would strongly recommend that you start as quickly as possible. I only really committed to the process in about March, for a September start date. The business schools wanted to give out offers around June.
Even if someone is unsure whether an MBA is the right choice, the earlier the process is started the easier it will be. It is possible to progress the application quite a long way before actually committing to the process, so it is easy to get a great sense of what is needed before making what is a very big decision.
Both business schools I visited gave us access to a large number of current students – it was really helpful to discuss schools, the course and the application process with people who were living what I was hoping to obtain.
Student Reviews
Best Journalism school in Europe
When I first stepped onto the campus of City, University of London, I knew I was in for a ride - and not just on the Tube! With its vibrant energy and an impressive repertoire of programs, City U became my home away from home.
The Journalism program was kind of a big deal. Rumour was that we were the best in Europe!
The lecturers were not just experts in their field; they’re practically journalistic royalty. They were invested, passionate, and had a knack for turning the most flat press release into a riveting news story. With their guidance, I’ve learned to navigate the chaotic world of media like a pro.
The campus was a melting pot of every culture, being that we had such a diverse international crowd.
Being in the heart of London, I had the world at my fingertips - there was always a new corner to explore, a hidden gem of a cafe to discover, or a street performer!
City, University of London wasn't just a university; it was a chapter in my life story that I’ll never forget.
Learning environment
The teacher-learner ration is manageable, giving each learner a chance to gain personal attention. It is also easier following up on the progress of a student, as the numbers per class is not large. the conducive environment for learning includes clean classes, standard desks, world class instructional facilities and the opportunity to engage lecturers even after their sessions. The team spirit at City is above board, with learners getting chance to learn both from instructors and colleagues. This is the university of choice; the place to be.
Classes
I liked that each class had a manageable number of learners, making the professor-learner ratio favor knowledge acquisition. I also liked that study schedules were manageable, and not overwhelming. The focus on talents and gifts even within the learning environment makes it possible for learners to achieve the best of their potential, and this has worked to the advantage of those that have schooled at City, University of London
Classes
The diversity at City University facilitates interactions and is a direction toward the unity of the world. The classes are well built to match the number and needs of all students regardless of the elements of diversity that set people apart. The use of technology in delivery makes learning even more interesting and achievable. At City University there is no distinction pegged on the issues that make people unique.
professors
The team of lecturers at the Uiversity are well experienced. Their level of insight and the methodologies of delivery works for the interes of the leaeners. My learning experience was largely boosted by the level of knowledge of the professors at the institution, and their passion to transfer the same to learners. I appreciate every class I attended because of the level of insight I was able to gather
The best university I’ve been to
The campus and the people I've met have made it a wonderful experience. I was reared in a small town with a graduating class of only 88 individuals, so moving to City University was a huge adjustment for me. My dorm has more residents than my whole high school combined! I enjoy the atmosphere here, and everyone is so friendly. Outstanding academic options and a stunning campus. Really great from beginning to end. The educators genuinely love what they do, and the students are ready to learn. On or around college, there is always something to do with friends, and the social scene is particularly warm.
Bayes Business School
As a student at City university attending Bayes Business School I would totally recommend choosing this university as the experience is exceptional with great social networking opportunities . Professors are significantly helpful, delivering with excellence and professionalism. Everyone is happy to help and make you feel welcomed in such an esteem university as City, offering exceptional development and guidance through out the course.
Economics and Politics
Incredibly amazing university, the way they polish students and help them boost their morale and think intellectually is worthwhile. Many universities have international partnerships to allow exchanges between their students. The most obvious subjects for these opportunities would be those that involve languages, and the study of people and places.
Clinical biology
I really like it it’s perfect for me with not too many people and not too few either. All the modules are amazing. I love the toy bar. I love all the societies that I’ma part of. Especially the colour Bollywood society
Unlocking My Potential at City University London
My time at City University London was truly transformative. The university's vibrant community and diverse extracurricular activities allowed me to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections that extend beyond the classroom. I was impressed by the university's commitment to academic rigor, character development, and personal growth, which created an ideal environment for me to reach my full potential. The research-driven and industry-relevant curriculum provided me with a solid foundation in international business, while the dedicated faculty and staff offered invaluable guidance and support. I feel grateful for the well-rounded education and holistic experience that City University London offered, preparing me for success in my career and beyond.
Rather interesting
The academics are tough, but in a good way. The professors are experts in their fields, so you know you’re learning from the best. They push you to think for yourself and really dive deep into the subjects. But it’s not all about hitting the books; London itself is like an extension of the campus. You’ve got museums, galleries, and just the general buzz of the city to keep you inspired.
Urban campus life
At the University of London, I have experienced dynamic and diverse academic environment where I was challenged by rigorous coursework. You will have the flexibility to choose from the wide range of courses, participate in numerous extra-curricular activities and take advantage of the many opportunities
