Expanding his impact: How the UBC MBA helped Armando Rocha turn his vision of nonprofit leadership into reality
Armando Rocha, UBC MBA 2023
Armando Rocha has always been driven by a desire to create meaningful change. With a background in microfinance in Mexico, he spent over six years empowering communities through financial inclusion. But Rocha wanted to expand his impact and transition into the nonprofit sector—a leap that required new skills and perspectives. Drawn to UBC Sauder’s emphasis on responsible leadership and innovation, he joined the Full-Time Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Today, as Product Owner at World Vision Canada, Rocha supports initiatives that help vulnerable children overcome poverty. Reflecting on his journey, he shares how the UBC MBA shaped his career and personal growth.
Tell us a little about yourself
I’m proudly Mexican and currently based in Vancouver, Canada. Personally, I’m passionate about sports and the outdoors—hiking, skiing, running, biking, and playing soccer and volleyball. Being active and surrounded by nature keeps me grounded.
Professionally, I’m deeply motivated by the idea that my work can help create meaningful change. Knowing that I can contribute to making life better for those in need is what drives me every day.
Can you walk us through your career journey since graduating from UBC Sauder?
Right after graduation, I worked as a market research consultant for UBC Sauder’s Development & Alumni Engagement team. Leading two projects there gave me a whole new appreciation for the positive impact UBC Sauder has on its students and alumni.
After that, I spent a couple of months actively job hunting. I was fortunate to land a role as Product Owner at World Vision, one of the largest NGOs in Canada and around the world. My role sits at the intersection of product and marketing, supporting initiatives that help vulnerable children overcome poverty and experience the fullness of life. I celebrated two years in this role in September 2025 and look forward to continuing to grow.
"Making the move into the nonprofit world after my MBA was a big personal goal, one that came with a lot of uncertainty."
What is one highlight of your career that you’re especially proud of?
One thing I’m especially proud of is successfully transitioning sectors. Before the UBC MBA, I spent over six years in the microfinance industry in Mexico. Making the move into the nonprofit world after my MBA was a big personal goal, one that came with a lot of uncertainty.
Being able to make that shift and find purpose in a new space has been incredibly fulfilling.
"I was drawn to UBC Sauder’s emphasis on responsible leadership and the flexibility to choose your own career track."
Why did you choose UBC Sauder and your specific program?
I lived in Vancouver for six months back in 2011 and absolutely fell in love with the city. I promised myself I’d come back one day. When my wife, María, and I began seriously considering a master’s degree to strengthen our intra- and entrepreneurship skills, I looked into options in Vancouver. That’s when we discovered UBC Sauder’s Full-Time MBA, one of Canada’s top programs. It felt like the perfect reason to return.
I was drawn to UBC Sauder’s emphasis on responsible leadership and the flexibility to choose your own career track. After attending an info session in Mexico City, I chose Entrepreneurship & Innovation, and I couldn’t be happier with that decision.
How did your experience at UBC Sauder shape your career path or contribute to your growth? Were there any resources or centres that supported you?
It was a truly rewarding experience. Having a dedicated career coach helped me gain clarity on where I wanted to go next professionally. On top of that, courses in product management and negotiation equipped me with skills I use in my current role.
Is there a standout memory or moment from your time at UBC Sauder that you often reflect on?
Three moments really stand out:
- Opening Week: The excitement of finally starting something I’d dreamed of for years and meeting such amazing people from day one was unforgettable.
- The GNAM experience: Spending a week taking a course at Silicon Valley at the University of California, Berkeley, was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
- Graduation: Seeing my classmates so happy and proud, surrounded by their loved ones, was incredibly moving and inspiring.
What advice would you give to someone considering a business education at UBC Sauder?
First, take time to deeply reflect on why you want to do it and what your goals are. Make sure you have a crystal-clear answer.
Second, talk to current students and alumni to get a variety of perspectives.
Third, if possible, live on campus like María and I did. It’s the best way to fully immerse yourself in the experience and make the most of student life at UBC Sauder.