From tactical management to holistic leadership

"The fact that I would be learning from experts in their field, with different professional backgrounds from me, was a big draw."

Nina began the program in January 2013, and by May of that same year she was promoted to a more senior Sales Management position. She was now leading a large, national sales team—an opportunity she would have expected within a few years, not months.

Nina attributes this fast ascent to the experience and knowledge gained during her time at UBC Sauder. She was absorbing diverse perspectives from her classmates and professors, and applying new principles to her job in real-time. In addition to a solid foundation in business strategy, Nina was deepening her understanding of the human side of business. Professors Daniel Skarlicki and Jim Southcott were fundamental to her success as a leader—helping to hone Nina’s creative and critical thinking skills, which allowed her to unlock this same potential within her own team.

Nina also took advantage of the option to study abroad and her time at ESSEC Business School in France gave her the opportunity to get a more global perspective on the business landscape.

Throughout all of this professional development, Nina continued to learn and push her boundaries—a work ethic that continues to serve her well even today.

Now, as Director, US Sales at STEMCELL Technologies, Nina finds herself in senior leadership meetings, still drawing on her learnings from the program, including skills in business strategy, accounting and economics.

She says her time at UBC Sauder helped her develop the ability to make quick, informed decisions, “I can sort through the most relevant information and make smart business decisions with confidence.” Her keen understanding of strategy and people management, along with the business insights she gained during her PTMBA, are what helped Nina accelerate her already successful career track.

As Nina continues to push her professional boundaries, she is happy to give back as well, “I was thrilled when UBC Sauder approached me to become a mentor for a current MBA student and it really feels like my education has come full circle, both professionally, and personally.”

"It's nice to feel like you're giving back to the program that really helped shape you and get you to where your are today."