Rebecca King

Rebecca has followed a unique career path to her current position, working in a senior role on one of the region’s—and the world’s—most iconic real estate development and construction projects. She has extensive experience in engineering project work and is a highly qualified professional in both engineering and leadership.

The MBA provided an opportunity to explore business beyond its technical aspects while also supporting her personal and professional development. Her MBA journey had notable milestones—not only earning a Distinction but also receiving the Best Student Award for achieving the highest individual mark. Additionally, she delivered the graduation address, representing her class at the Middle East graduation celebration, where she spoke eloquently about overcoming self-doubt to complete the programme successfully.‍

Was the MBA intended to help equip /transition you into your current role?

At that stage of my career, I was transitioning into more strategic roles, and I believed an MBA would deepen my knowledge and broaden my perspective. However, my decision to pursue an MBA was also influenced by my circumstances at the time. Living in a remote location, I anticipated having significant free time with fewer distractions, making it the perfect opportunity to take on a personal challenge and fully dedicate myself to this learning experience.

What did you want to gain from the MBA – what did you think was missing from your profile, knowledge or skillset?

Throughout my career in construction, my roles had been predominantly technical. Pursuing an MBA allowed me to expand my skill set by delving into finance, strategy, and marketing. As I progressed, I began working more frequently with multidisciplinary teams. The knowledge I gained significantly enhanced my ability to contribute effectively in scenarios that required a broader skill set.

Did you achieve your learning and development aims?

Absolutely—and I exceeded those expectations. My goal was to become a more well-rounded professional, but the experience went far beyond that. I found myself deeply immersed in areas I hadn’t previously understood, gaining a new appreciation for how different aspects of business are interconnected. What once felt like isolated pieces of knowledge came together, enabling me to analyse situations from a more holistic perspective.

You already had substantial work experience and a range of professional qualifications – what did the MBA add to this?

It brought everything together, giving me a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate. I realized that organisations don’t function in isolated silos; instead, every department and function plays a role in moving the entire organisation forward.

How did you first connect with UoM and why did you choose the Manchester?

A colleague in Dubai who had completed the Global MBA was my primary inspiration. His impact in the workplace was notable, and when he recommended Manchester’s programme, it resonated deeply. Being a proud Mancunian, it felt like everything had aligned perfectly, making the decision an easy one.

What specifically attracted you to the Manchester MBA?

The Manchester Method, with its emphasis on collaborative group work, was a major draw for me. It felt like the most authentic approach to learning, mirroring the way the professional world operates. While it was challenging at times, I now fully appreciate the immense value of this learning style. Working with diverse groups from various backgrounds and industries enriched my experience, fostering both personal and professional growth.

What were the highlights of the MBA experience?

Every lecturer was outstanding, delivering an exceptional learning experience with unique teaching styles and ongoing support. I particularly enjoyed the Operations and Marketing module, a distinctive feature of Manchester’s MBA programme. Unlike other programmes that treat these subjects separately, Manchester’s integration of these topics revealed how decisions in one area impact another. The workshop for this module was not only insightful but also incredibly engaging.

Was the transition back into the ‘classroom’ challenging, while in a demanding role?

Not particularly. I’ve always prioritised continuous learning throughout my career, so dedicating time outside of work felt natural. Being a morning person also helped—I genuinely enjoyed starting my day early, diving into MBA work over a cup of coffee.

Did you have any doubts about your ability to complete the MBA?

I absolutely did. Like many others, I’ve experienced imposter syndrome. At the start of the course, I worried that I might be out of my depth. However, I quickly realised that with consistent effort and by making full use of the available resources, anyone can achieve their goals. It was a valuable lesson in trusting the process and believing in my own abilities.

Did your cohort peers make a difference to your MBA experience?

The cohort was pivotal. In the Executive MBA programme, working as a closed cohort meant we developed deep connections and had the chance to collaborate in small groups. We quickly formed strong friendships, and the shared experiences became a cornerstone of our journey. During challenging times, we supported and motivated one another, pushing each other to keep going. The diverse perspectives within our group were invaluable, and the friendships we built will last a lifetime.

Did you visit the Manchester campus or other Centres during your programme?

As a cohort, we traveled together for each MBA workshop, visiting Manchester twice as well as the Dubai branch and the Singapore center. It was inspiring to see how the University supports its students globally. During each workshop, the University organised events that helped us immerse ourselves in the local culture, enriching the experience and strengthening our connections.

Did you face any particular challenges?

Like many MBA students, we had to balance the programme with significant family and work commitments. Staying on track required dedication, especially when life inevitably threw challenges our way. Thankfully, the support of our cohort and loved ones made it possible to persevere and succeed.

Were you able to use any of your new learning from the MBA in your role?

The framework I reference most often is the Reflective Executive Decision-Making Framework (PRISM) by Dr. Mark Winter. It’s invaluable in my day-to-day work, where I frequently encounter challenges that require me to pause, reflect, and assess situations before making decisions. Additionally, the insights from the Strategy workshops have been indispensable as I transition into more senior roles.

Are you a lifelong learner and do you have any plans to continue your studying?

I have a genuine passion for learning and have consistently prioritised professional development. Staying current in the fast-evolving business landscape is something I value deeply. I’m confident I’ll pursue further studies in the future, though I think I’ve earned a little break for now!

What was your reaction to the Best Student of the Year award?

It was an incredible surprise, and I’m immensely proud of this achievement. Many of us in the cohort exceeded our own expectations, which speaks to the exceptional teaching at The University of Manchester. The lecturers continually pushed us to uncover potential we didn’t realise we had. I certainly felt that throughout the programme and know I couldn’t have achieved this without their support.

How did you approach your speech at the graduation celebration?

I was nervous about giving a speech, but I spoke from the heart. Imposter syndrome and self-doubt are challenges many of us face, but it’s important to remind ourselves that we’re all human, doing our best to navigate life’s journey. It was incredibly rewarding to receive such positive feedback—knowing my message resonated with so many made the experience even more meaningful.

Do you believe you are a role model for women in your profession and others?

I’ve been fortunate to have strong female role models throughout my career. Most recently, in Dubai, I reported to Afraa, our team director, who exemplified the value of women in leadership. She set an inspiring example, and I hope to carry that forward by supporting others on similar journeys. It’s also important to acknowledge the male role models who champion gender equality and create inclusive environments. Their efforts are equally essential in fostering progress and growth.

What would you like to add?

The entire team at The University of Manchester has been exceptional. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in helping us reach our full potential. They consistently go above and beyond to ensure we have everything we need to succeed. A heartfelt ‘thank you’ to the entire team for making it all possible!

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