Six months into an Executive MBA at Cass Business School, Jono Marcus resigned from his role as CEO to launch his own consultancy
Jono Marcus decided to do an MBA on his wedding day. Previously the CEO of a bespoke software firm in London, he opted for Cass Business School’s Executive MBA program – ranked 31st in the world and 5th in the UK by the Financial Times.Six months into the two-year, part-time program, he was inspired to leave his CEO role and launch his own business, business strategy consulting firm TigerCat.
Described by Roche – a Swiss multinational healthcare company – as “like McKinsey on steroids,” Jono’s consultancy goes beyond raw data and helps business leaders delve deeper into their organizations, to ensure company culture and market positioning align.
Jono previously featured as a regular commentator on the future of digital for BBC Radio Leeds. He’s a seasoned executive with over a decade’s experience in digital and brand marketing to his name.
On the Cass EMBA, he’s not alone. In the 2018 EMBA class, 57 students representing 21 different nationalities share an average of 12 year’s professional experience between them.
Jono overcame severe dyspraxia as a child - to work his way up the corporate ladder - and credits it with his authentic leadership style. Now, he advises top-level executives from some of the world’s leading firms.
How did the idea for TigerCat come about?
The journey to TigerCat started a long time ago. As a very young child, I had severe dyspraxia (bad co-ordination) and the prevailing wisdom was that I should not be sent into mainstream school.
But my parents believed I was being underestimated. A good mainstream school took a chance on me and some unforgettable school teachers pushed me and encouraged me to be the best I could be, finding ways around and directly through my coordination problems. They even rather disastrously allowed me to play percussion in the school band! I knew I ‘owed one’ to a lot of people, so pushed myself incredibly to live to what I felt they expected of me.
These people made a big impact on me and showed me the value of looking at things from all angles, to help other people achieve more – more than most think they should.
TigerCat is the most authentic vehicle for me to try and do the same thing for top-level executives whom I believe in, as they deal with massive organizational and commercial challenges. The firm allows me to deep dive into these peoples’ worlds from all angles and provide them with a clearer way forward.
Where are you at right now with your business? What do you hope to achieve?
The business is six months old and we have advised clients including blue chip organizations such as Unilever and Roche; fast-growing companies such as Makers Academy and PRC Elite; and startups such as BuzzRamp and Road Grand Tours; as well as a major investment bank. In terms of the future, I simply want to provide the best possible business strategy consultancy to our clients current and new.
Why did you decide to pursue an Executive MBA at Cass?
On my wedding day, I met a Gatsby-esque businessman called David Graham – who I now consider a friend – who credited everything he had to his Harvard MBA. I decided to pursue an MBA program, and chose the Cass EMBA because it’s highly-ranked, close to my office, and because I found the sample lecture outstanding.
I found the application process very enjoyable, and meeting the academic course director didn’t even feel like an interview. Getting a scholarship made the fees manageable. It was the icing on the cake!
How has the Cass EMBA helped you in starting your own business?
The EMBA has given me a breadth of knowledge outside of the disciplines I had worked at a senior level in, such as: Human Resources, Financial Markets, and Business Analytics. These disciplines were entirely new to me.
The volume of businesses we review in case-study form on a monthly basis in lectures has certainly strengthened speed of thought and access to the lecturers for advice has not hurt at all. The best thing about the EMBA experience so far has been Organizational Behavior lectures with Professor Cliff Oswick.
Confidently starting TigerCat without my EMBA studies would have been very tough; and my cohort have been very encouraging and providers of tough-love in terms of very vocally believing I should just go for it. However, it is my wife’s and children’s unconditional support that has mattered most.
If you're considering starting an Executive MBA this year and would like to know more about the Cass program, contact the recruitment team at cass-mba@city.ac.uk
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
