In 2019, exactly 18 years after graduating with a B.TECH in Information Technology, I decided to pursue a Master in Business Leadership (MBL).
What is a Master in Business Leadership (MBL)?
The easiest way to explain it is that it’s an MBA with an emphasis placed on business leadership, both in the public and private sectors. The MBL focuses on the soft skills required to lead people, together with executive management skills such as strategic management, value-based management, finance for managers, and business research to name a few.
Why did I pursue this degree?
After obtaining a B.TECH in IT, most of my roles revolved around the Software Engineering discipline. Writing code, designing apps, and querying databases was what I did. I loved it and I still do but the question that was always on my mind, was ‘how are technology and apps solving business and societal problems?’ I decided to branch off into Business Analysis, working closely with users of the apps, to find out more. What I discovered was a surge in businesses using digital technology to enhance the user experience, strengthen their operating model, or completely change their business model. Architecting a business to provide customer value through digitization required an understanding of business at a strategic level, coupled with strong executive leadership, to effect the change. This peaked my curiosity and formed the basis in which to pursue a Master in Business Leadership.
What have I learned during my MBL journey?
Lesson 1:
The first lesson is that there is no substitute for hard work and commitment to a cause. Nine examinations, 16 assignments, and a master’s dissertation in 2 years was no easy feat, however, it’s the second lesson that made all the difference.
Lesson 2:
The second lesson was the importance of teamwork. In the MBL you work in a team where the work is shared. The success of each team member determined your success. We had common goals and aspirations, we knew each other's strengths and weaknesses, and we respected and trusted one another. The same holds true in business.
Lesson 3:
The final lesson would be the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills gained from the MBL curriculum. It inspired me to become the founder of my own management consulting company, LEO (Leading the evolution of organizations), where I combine my technical and business acumen with industry experience, to transform businesses for the digital era. Learn more about what I do by following this link: www.consultwithleo.com