Her search for MBA programs led her quickly to the International University of Monaco (IUM), where she was drawn in by the depth of the AMBA-accredited MBA's applied finance track.
Now working as a project lead for Peab, one of the Nordic region’s leading construction and civil engineering companies, Caroline uses her MBA knowledge on a daily basis, from risk management to strategic marketing.
Why did you decide to pursue an MBA at IUM?
After seven years of work experience in business development and entrepreneurship, I wanted to pursue new personal challenges, pitching my ideas and, at the same time, becoming a better and more competitive professional.
I knew an MBA would allow me to acquire new leadership skills in an international environment and expand my professional business network.
For me, choosing a school was easy, as the Monaco MBA is highly ranked and attracts international managers from all over the world.
I had spent some time in Monaco before, and loved the multicultural environment as well as the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit it offers.
What are your thoughts on IUM’s applied finance track?
I’ve always been very keen to learn more about corporate finance and private equity, along with mergers and acquisitions. For that reason, I chose these subjects as electives within IUM’s applied finance track.
For me the most useful thing about the track was to acquire effective tools to better manage financial activities and build on my skills in business development, risk management and strategic thinking. The professors greatly inspired me as well.
I had some previous work experience in finance before entering the MBA program, which I could leverage when working on business cases at IUM. This was a big advantage to me, as the learning curve was relatively steep.
However, I do believe that as long as you have the motivation, as well as a few years of business experience, you can make a success of the applied finance track without having a background in it.
How have you gained from your MBA experience?
The thing I probably appreciated the most about the Monaco MBA was that the professors constantly pushed me to venture beyond my comfort zone and think outside the box to find innovative solutions and improve my business proficiency.
The MBA experience has definitely made me more prepared and confident to manage business complexities and turn paper strategies into real-life ones.
IUM’s milestone weeks, which happen five times over the course of the program, were particularly enjoyable, involving career development activities, networking events and business simulations.
Receiving direct feedback from top executives and business directors has been crucial to my personal and professional development.
It’s also improved my project management skills, and has given me greater confidence in taking vital strategic decisions. I certainly use the knowledge I gained at IUM on a regular basis, whether it be financial analysis, risk management, or strategic marketing.
Did you take part in any consulting projects while at IUM?
We undertook a few consulting projects, but for me, the major one was with Frost and Sullivan, the international consulting firm. The project I worked on with them focused on disruptive innovation for commercial real estate, targeting green buildings in particular.
I’m hugely appreciative of how closely I was able to interact and collaborate with the company, as well as of the personalized feedback I received.
How did you come to work at Peab?
My role as a project leader for the development of housing is a highly multifaceted one, and my responsibilities cover everything from the planning stage to delivery of the final product.
I was able to find work at Peab through my business network and previous consulting contacts, though IUM can definitely play a huge role if needed.
Their careers team will do everything under the sun to help you out with your job search, and give you access to their business network. Through IUM’s networking sessions and events, I got a lot of valuable business contacts and even a few business mentors which I am very grateful for.
What advice would you have for MBA applicants?
My advice would be to be open-minded in interacting with your MBA colleagues and faculty, and try to learn from their experiences. Also, try to challenge yourself personally as much as you can.
An MBA is a great opportunity to let professors and business directors evaluate your work, communication and leadership skills in a safe environment, so be as forthcoming as possible.
What are your plans for the future?
My goal for the future is to continue developing and deepening my knowledge within business management in order to become a top manager at an influential, international company.
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