From Event Pro to Aspiring Entrepreneur: How an MBA at Essex Business School is Shaping My Career and Ambitions

I’ve spent over a decade immersed in the world of events, carving out a fulfilling career that blends creativity, organisation, and strategic thinking. Starting as an Event Coordinator in the Maritime industry after graduating in 2012, I honed my skills and steadily progressed to Event Manager. During this time, I witnessed two acquisitions, ultimately joining the global leader in events, Informa.

In April 2022, I transitioned to Ascential, where I played a pivotal role as a Senior Awards Product & Research Manager for the prestigious Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. This role allowed me to develop award programs that celebrated innovation in the creative industries. By July 2023, I returned to Informa as a Senior Event Producer, focusing on Media & Entertainment Events across Europe and the US. This role has enabled me to project manage conferences and awards programs that connect and inspire industry leaders.

Why Essex Business School?

My decision to pursue an MBA stemmed from a desire to deepen my understanding of the various functions that drive successful businesses. As an event manager, I frequently collaborate with departments such as finance, operations, marketing, and leadership. However, I wanted to gain a comprehensive understanding of these areas to enhance my strategic decision-making and communication.

The Essex Business School MBA stood out for its holistic curriculum, offering modules that align closely with my professional needs. By learning the intricacies of business operations and strategy, I’m equipping myself not just for my current role but also for future opportunities, including entrepreneurial ventures.

Highlights of My MBA Experience so far

The MBA program at Essex has been an enriching experience, primarily because of the incredible people I’ve met. The diversity of backgrounds and cultures among my peers brings a wealth of perspectives to every discussion. It’s inspiring to collaborate with individuals who share a passion for learning while bringing unique personal and professional experiences to the table. Together, we’re exploring innovative ideas, solving complex problems, and building lifelong connections.

Looking Ahead:  Career Goals

One of my long-term aspirations is to open my own dance school. While I’ve always been passionate about teaching, I’ve hesitated to take the plunge due to a lack of confidence in the business aspects of running an organisation. Through this MBA, I’m gaining the knowledge and tools to turn this dream into a reality. The coursework and hands-on experiences are helping me build the confidence to not only manage a business but to grow it sustainably.

In the immediate term, I aim to continue excelling in the events industry, applying my MBA learnings to improve decision-making, foster innovation, and contribute to organizational success.

Final Thoughts

Starting my MBA at Essex Business School has been one of the most rewarding decisions of my career. The program is not only enhancing my professional capabilities but also igniting a renewed sense of purpose and possibility. Whether you’re considering an MBA to advance in your current role or to explore new ventures, Essex offers a supportive and dynamic environment that will help you achieve your goals.