With a background in the pharmaceutical industry, I moved to the UK four years ago. I originally completed my university studies in Brazil and have been working for Pharmaceutical companies since I graduated. I started in medicine and gradually became more attracted to the business side of things. I wanted to move forward with my career. I wanted to become a more holistic
professional and gain a more complete view of the business (not just the functions I’ve been working in). I also wanted to gain more knowledge around broader aspects, such as finance, business management and working with global teams.
An MBA seemed like the answer, so I went to an open day at Cass Business School. It became clear that the Executive MBA programme would enableme to pitch at a different level, in different positions – not only in the pharma industry, but across other industries as well. The open day really inspired me and gave the final push I needed to apply.
I chose Cass for its great location and the flexibility it gave me to study around my other commitments. As an executive, I work and I also have a family. It’s a lot to juggle, but the MEMBA is a very flexible programme, running monthly sessions that I could manage around my family time and work. The team at Cass also helped me apply for a scholarship – I was lucky enough to be awarded 50% of the funding for my course.
The academic staff are exceptional. I’ve had the opportunity to learn with people I never imagined I would be able to study with. The transfer of knowledge from them has been of incredible value. They not only cover the theory, but also bring its application to life. You soon learn how to apply the theory in your daily role.
One of the highlights for me was the optional international electives. I went to Vietnam, Israel and Palestine, San Francisco and China. It has given me in-depth knowledge of different countries, the people working there and the challenges they face. It was such a rich experience. These experiences also enable you to build an international network.
The cohort and networking opportunities are also fantastic. There’s such a high level of energy flowing around the cohort and I’m now connected to people in a wide range of industries.
In the first year, I had several sessions with the Careers and Professional Development Team. Professionally, I was at a moment of transition and planning for my next role. They were amazing, helping me to understand my aspirations and boosting my confidence. I worked with them to set up a plan, refocus my CV and application letters. They also provided invaluable interview practice.
Within three months of starting the programme, I secured the role I was looking for, working as a Partnership Manager for Norgine Pharmaceuticals.
Professionally, the EMBA at Cass has made me more confident, more competitive and a more attractive prospect for companies – not only in Pharma, but in other sectors as well. Personally, it has been a unique experience. I’ve met some wonderful people and expanded my network far beyond my own industry. Of course, It was a challenge, but if you plan and organise your personal life and work life, you can do it.