If you’re looking for an elite qualification to springboard your career and build your technical business skills, you might be tempted by Alliance Manchester Business School’s MBA. As MYP’s careers partner, we bring you exclusive interviews with professionals undertaking this challenging and prestigious MBA course in our ‘My MBA’ series.
Did you know that you don’t necessarily have to pursue an MBA full-time? Danny’s journey might be a particularly interesting route for those wondering how an MBA at Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS) can work with your current job.
In Danny’s case, he undertook their Part-Time Global MBA. Here’s what he has to say about the experience in his interview with us.
My MBA: Danny Loughrey’s Experience
Tell us about your career to date
‘Before pursuing my MBA, I worked with C&D Foods, the pet food division of the ABP Food Group. I completed a joint undergraduate degree between Dublin City University and L’École de Management in Strasbourg, which led me to join C&D Foods in Ireland.
After two years, I transitioned to our Manchester office as a Senior National Account Manager. In this role, I managed commercial relationships with key customers across the UK, Ireland, Germany, and Austria. From starting and subsequently completing my MBA, I was promoted during my studies to Channel Commercial Director, where I oversee all of our specialist, branded, and online customers.
I consider myself very fortunate to have an employer like C&D Foods and ABP, who truly value people development. They not only recognised the benefits of my undertaking the course at AMBS, but were also incredibly supportive throughout my two years of study.’
Why did you decide to study for the MBA & what were your goals?
‘I had several motivations for pursuing an MBA. Friends and colleagues who had completed MBA programmes previously spoke highly of how it not only expanded their knowledge but also propelled their careers and expanded their professional networks – goals I strongly shared.
When I explored different programs, the Global MBA at AMBS stood out. It offered a top-ranked program globally, in the city I had recently moved to, and at a highly competitive cost compared to similarly ranked programs.
I also reached out to a couple of recent graduates on LinkedIn to ask them about their experience on the Global programme, and they reiterated the benefits of the course’s international perspective and emphasis on practical application rather than just textbook learning which is exactly what I was looking for.’
Don’t let age stop you from applying
Part of our ethos at Manchester Young Professionals is to empower ambitious professionals to meet their career goals right from the start of their working career. From hosting networking events in Manchester to running a professional mentorship programme to promote career development, we’re all about opening doors to progression.
There’s a common misconception that an MBA is only for seasoned professionals with decades of career experience, however, Danny’s experience proves that this isn’t the case. If you feel that an MBA could offer you a valuable incubator for your business skills don’t let your age count you out.
Danny explains,
‘At 26, I was initially concerned about not having enough professional experience for admission. However, the recuritment team were incredibly supportive.
They scheduled a virtual call as soon as I reached out, reviewed my professional background in detail, and reassured me that despite my age, my strong career progression and senior role made me a competitive candidate.
Their initial support was also instrumental in my decision, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Graduating last month as the youngest in the cohort definitely validated my choice too!’
What was your favourite part of the program?
‘While the workshops in Manchester were undeniably a highlight my favourite aspect was the opportunity to study at AMBS’s global centres.
I had the incredible experience of learning strategic supply-chain management in Dubai and advanced negotiation skills in Singapore – opportunities I believe are truly unique to the part-time Manchester Global MBA.
In addition to the interesting and practical course content, being able to collaborate with colleagues from other regions significantly contributed to the Global perspective that AMBS is renowned for.’
Finally – why Manchester?
‘The reputation of AMBS, the MBA ranking in The Financial Times and the global nature of the program were pivotal in making Manchester my top choice’.
From booming businesses to elite qualifications & world-class networking
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career development, by all means reach out to the Manchester MBA Recruitment Team on global@manchester.ac.uk.
Alternatively, the MBA Recruitment Team regularly attends our events. We would highly recommend you get plugged into one of our Manchester-based networking events. Making connections in our community of diverse professionals is the best way to find opportunities and meet like minds
Join us at one of our many buzzing networking events in Manchester.
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