How Entrepreneurs Can Take Advantage Of An Executive MBA
Shai Zamanian, founder of The American Legal Center, U.S. licensed attorney and EB-5 specialist.
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What separates good leaders from great ones? Often, it's their ability to step back, learn and expand their networks, which is precisely what an executive master of business administration (EMBA) offers.
I recently took the plunge myself, gaining admission to Oxford University's Saïd Business School. If you're an entrepreneur looking to refine your leadership, scale your business and gain a global perspective, an EMBA could be the key to unlocking new opportunities.
More than just a degree, I see an EMBA as an investment in your leadership and long-term success.
Every successful entrepreneur must master strategic thinking and leadership. Unlike traditional MBA programs, which provide a broad foundation, an EMBA is designed for experienced professionals. For entrepreneurs, mastering these skills can be the difference between growth and stagnation.
An EMBA allows professionals to step out of their comfort zones and engage in dynamic discussions with like-minded peers in an academic setting.
I think one of the most valuable aspects of an EMBA is its expansive network. This network extends beyond classmates to include alumni, faculty and industry leaders. Such connections can open doors to new markets and collaborations.
For me, a major motivation in pursuing an EMBA was to engage more actively in the marketplace of ideas. The diversity of backgrounds and industries represented in these programs fosters not just friendships but also business partnerships and investment opportunities. I think entrepreneurs who operate globally—or aspire to—will find this network indispensable.
Maybe, like me, you find that leading a company for years can sometimes lead to stagnation in thinking and strategy. An EMBA challenges professionals with fresh business concepts and innovative solutions. Rather than just reinforcing what you already know, a good program exposes you to cutting-edge research and trends that can give you a competitive edge.
For entrepreneurs, staying ahead of the curve is essential. This learning environment and distinct experiences of your classmates can push you beyond conventional wisdom, equipping you with the latest strategies to drive meaningful impact in your business.
An EMBA from a globally recognized institution like Oxford enhances professional credibility. In high-stakes business environments, credentials can play a crucial role in building trust with investors, clients and partners. Having an EMBA signals not just experience but also a commitment to strategic growth and global insight.
For me, this credibility is especially valuable in my work with EB-5 investors seeking U.S. residency through substantial investments. I believe an EMBA will reinforce my expertise and reassure clients that they are working with someone who understands both the business and financial landscapes at a global level.
The choice of where to pursue an EMBA significantly impacts your experience and opportunities. Here's a brief comparison between top programs in the United States and the United Kingdom:
• U.S. Programs (e.g., Wharton, Kellogg): These are typically two years long with frequent in-person sessions; these programs offer an immersive but demanding experience. When choosing schools, I found tuition to be often higher.
• U.K. Programs (e.g., Oxford, Cambridge): These schools are modular part-time formats (22 to 24 months at Oxford, 20 months at Cambridge) and often cater to professionals balancing work and study. These programs tend to attract a highly international student body.
Tuitions between these programs can range from around $120,000 to over $230,000.
Student composition is another key distinction to consider. I've found that U.S. EMBA programs tend to have a higher proportion of domestic students, whereas U.K. programs attract a significantly more international cohort.
This diversity can enhance the learning experience by exposing you to varied business perspectives and global insights, making U.K. EMBAs particularly appealing to those seeking a broader international network.
Before applying, it is essential to consider the demographic composition of your prospective cohort. Networking is a core component of an EMBA, not only for professional growth but also for facilitating career pivots. The right peer group can provide invaluable connections and insights, opening doors to new industries and opportunities.
Ultimately, both the U.S. and U.K. offer world-class EMBA programs, and the right choice depends on your career aspirations, preferred program structure, desire for international exposure and financial considerations. For example, if you are finance-focused and want to become stronger in consultancy and technology, my research shows that U.S. schools may be a better fit for you.
I chose Oxford because, living in a global hub spot such as Dubai, I knew that being part of a highly international cohort would provide me with a more diverse range of perspectives and connections, better aligning with my global career ambitions.
Pursuing an executive MBA is more than an academic endeavor—it's a journey of transformation. For entrepreneurs and executives aspiring to make a lasting impact, I am experiencing how an EMBA can help provide the tools, insights and connections to fuel that ambition.
As I continue my own journey at Oxford's Saïd Business School, I look forward to leveraging the knowledge, relationships and credibility that come with it.
For those considering an EMBA, my advice is to think beyond the immediate rewards. This program is an investment not just in professional skills but in a higher standard of leadership and influence. An EMBA can open doors you don't yet see and provide connections you didn't even know you needed—ultimately becoming a cornerstone in your long-term success.
Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
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