Practical application with an MBA – Daniel Adam Soo

Practical application with an MBA
by Daniel Adam Soo

As an Australian that has been residing in Malaysia for the past 8 years, I began searching for a leading MBA programme in Kuala Lumpur.  In my mind, an MBA qualification would help to challenge, stimulate and accelerate my personal development in order to understand the complexities of business. I was interested to explore, re-evaluate and re-energise my leadership, strategic and financial skills.

I have had the opportunity to work with leading Australian manufacturing companies (BHP Steel/OneSteel) and provide risk management consultancy services to the Malaysian Independent Power Producing (IPP) industries.

Currently managing an SME manufacturing company that provides solutions to the Automotive, Oil & Gas and Electrical & Electronics sectors in Malaysia as an Executive Director.

Choosing the MBA

In seeking out the right MBA programme for me, the requirements were simple. It had to be internationally recognised and provide a global business outlook.

The Strathclyde Executive MBA programme, being Triple Crown accredited (AMBA, EQUIS, ACCSB), hailing from the UK and being offered in tropical Malaysia at an International centre, met these requirements and more!

Initially the trepidation of ‘going back to uni’ was short-lived. And the excitement of being in a learning environment with successful career-minded individuals took over.

Engaging with classmates of different backgrounds, industries and levels of seniority made classroom antics fun and at the same time, challenging.  Be prepared to listen, take on-board differing views and ultimately, work together to make an impact.

As for the learning environment, the intensive seminars are held in blocks over weekends. So be ready to let go of your weekend hobbies, brunch and late nights.

In fact, you will become accustomed to late nights; reading, preparing material and assignment work.  Commitment and dedication are values that will go a long way to achieving the MBA dream. Short-term pain for long-term gain!

For those with a zest for travel, the programme offers a chance for the international centre students to take their electives at the Strathclyde Business School in Glasgow.  I was fortunate to pursue this opportunity, as up until my MBA, my educational experience has been Australian (The King’s School and The University of Sydney).

Interacting with the local and international students in Glasgow provided exposure to cultural differences, even from an Aussie point-of-view.

Strathclyde’s MBA programme is renowned for its strategy modules and I’ve been able to incorporate these strategic frameworks into my organisation.  In client presentations, I have showcased the practical application of these frameworks to Multi-national Corporations and Malaysian Conglomerates – with extremely favourable feedback.

My advice

If I could offer some advice in pursuing this MBA programme, firstly don’t hesitate and join Strathclyde.  Furthermore, throw yourself entirely into the course. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and use the space to hone your leadership and communication skills. Life is what you make of it.

Written by
Name: Daniel Adam Soo
Age: 38 Years old
Position: Executive Director of Recomtec Sdn. Bhd.