Lifelong learning as a UBC Sauder MBA alum through GNAM at Oxford

Driven by a belief in the power of leadership to shape the world, UBC Sauder School of Business MBA alum Daniel Cruz participated in the Global Network for Advanced Management (GNAM) alumni module pilot at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. Based in Vancouver and originally from Colombia, Cruz works as a Manager in the Risk and Assurance department at Pan American Silver, helping to assess the mining operations across the Americas.

In June, the Oxford module brought together alumni from seven GNAM schools around the world to explore leadership through the lenses of history, sport, politics and innovation. UBC Sauder is the only Canadian member in GNAM, a collaboration of 33 business schools located around the world. This association offers students and now, alumni, global learning opportunities to share knowledge, meet talented peers and explore programming across partner institutions. 

Cruz reflects on the experience of a lifetime and how it built on his time at UBC Sauder. 

Why did you choose to participate in the GNAM Alumni Pilot Module at Oxford? 

As I still consider myself a lifelong learner, I’m always looking for opportunities to grow. When I saw this opportunity come by, two words stood out: leadership and Oxford. That’s a powerful combination. 

I deeply believe that we’re currently facing a global leadership crisis around a number of fundamental topics like international diplomacy, conflict resolution, and climate change. Therefore, I wanted to hone my leadership skills to better contribute and drive change. I believe that in many cases, these fundamental issues come down to decisions made by one individual, one leader. It made me reflect on how if those leaders were better, perhaps there wouldn’t be such crisis.  

Oxford provided the perfect setting as the heart and the cradle of innovation. I appreciated that the courses were designed to explore the topic through different lenses from politics to sports, offering a broad and enriching perspective. The program explored leadership in a way that offered an unmatched learning environment where world-class leaders have studied and shared knowledge. 

What were your biggest takeaways from the week at Oxford? 

For anyone considering the GNAM alumni module, I found the week at Oxford filled with countless takeaways: 

1. History is a teacher. 
History offers valuable lessons that can be found everywhere, from architecture, science, trade and through the mindset of leaders across the different periods of history. That insight took on new meaning as I found myself literally standing in the halls of history. 

2. Power and leadership are closely connected, but don’t always lead to the same outcome. 
Consider how some of the most transformative leaders in history have operated without formal authority or a visible power. There will always be silent leaders who leave a lasting impact without commanding attention. 

3. Leadership is about enabling and facilitating.  
Great leaders listen carefully and ask thoughtful questions about what their team needs – they enable and empower the people they lead. As a leader, you only thrive if your team thrives first. 

4. Smooth collaboration can flourish in highly competitive environments. 
The key is having a positive leader who can effectively manage egos, priorities and well-defined goals. The path to a high performing team is striking the right balance of collaboration and competitiveness. 

5. AI is a tool, not a replacement.  
AI will continue to be a powerful tool, however, it can never replace the importance of humanity, authenticity, good judgment and critical thinking. Building connection and emotion is essential in great leadership. At the end of the day, people want to be led by good people.

How has the Oxford experience influenced your perspective on leadership or your approach to work? 

As a manager, I know that leadership is complex. It requires constant self-awareness, knowing yourself, and knowing those that work with you. That’s easy to say, but hard to consistently achieve. 

I once read that the finest work of a leader is to make good decisions. That stuck with me. This experience gave me new tools and perspectives to approach situations more thoughtfully and holistically. That, to me, is essential. Better decisions lead to better outcomes, not just for your organization, but for everyone who places their trust in you as a leader. 
 

What were some highlights or memorable moments from the program? 

Some experiences felt truly once-in-a-lifetime. I couldn’t believe I was allowed to hold a Nobel Prize medal while we were visiting some of the University’s hidden treasures around the campus. We had dinner with Olympic gold medallist, Tim Foster, who spoke with us candidly for hours about his path from an elite athlete to a respected leader. His humility left a strong impression on me. 

We had the opportunity to attend classes in some of the university’s most historic buildings, spaces filled with tradition and scientific legacy. The professors were incredibly welcoming and led the sessions with both passion and intensity, creating an environment that was as inspiring as it was intellectually engaging. 

Participating and winning an Oxford Union-style debate was another highlight. My team mates unexpectedly selected me to be the closing speaker where I had to summarize our case in the debate. 

Finally, exploring the city of Oxford itself. As you walk around the city, you discover an incredible richness of history in every street and building. 
 

Anything else you’d like to share about your experience, or advice for other alumni considering this opportunity? 

I encourage others to explore all the resources that UBC Sauder has to offer. GNAM is a powerful network that opens doors worldwide. No matter where you are in your career, keep a learning mindset. The more you seek out new ideas and experiences, the more you’ll grow, both personally and professionally.