The Sheffield MBA helped me connect marketing with wider business strategy and move from execution to strategic thinking

From MBA to leading marketing across 30+ projects

After completing my MBA, I joined Informa Markets as a Marketing Manager in the Greater China Marketing team.

In this role, I provide strategic marketing guidance and channel performance analysis across a portfolio of over 30 projects, helping to optimise budget allocation, improve conversion efficiency, and strengthen overall marketing effectiveness. I work closely with Asia and global teams on cross-regional communication, coordinating campaigns, events, and marketing materials to ensure alignment across markets.

Alongside this, I support both domestic and international campaign planning, and contribute to capability building by designing internal training programmes for regional teams.

I wanted to move from execution to strategy

Before my MBA, I had several years of experience in the exhibitions and events industry, working across marketing, audience development, and international promotion.

While this gave me strong practical experience, I wanted to better understand how marketing connects with wider business functions such as finance, operations, economics, leadership, and strategy. I was looking to become a more strategic business professional, not just a marketing practitioner.

A practical MBA with real business application

The Sheffield MBA stood out to me because of its emphasis on leadership, entrepreneurship, and consultancy, as well as the opportunity to work on real business challenges.

Modules such as Marketing Consultant Challenge, Accounting and Financial Management, Operations Management, and Global Managerial Economics helped me build a more structured understanding of how marketing decisions connect with wider business goals.

The practical projects were especially valuable. I worked on marketing and business analysis for a UK-based renewable energy company, conducted market research for European firms planning international expansion, and co-developed a startup business plan as part of a team. These experiences strengthened my ability to analyse markets, develop growth strategies, and collaborate across different functions and cultural contexts.

Developing my professional identity through PPCD

The Personal, Professional and Career Development (PPCD) module was a very important part of my MBA experience.

It encouraged me to think more deeply about my professional identity, leadership style, and long-term career direction. It was not only about finding the next role, but about understanding how to position myself as a more reflective, capable, and strategic professional.

Through PPCD, I developed a stronger awareness of my strengths and areas for development, and became more intentional about communication, career planning, and professional growth.

Experiences such as the London study trip, where we engaged with business leaders, alumni, and academics, further supported this development. These conversations exposed me to different career paths and perspectives, and helped strengthen my confidence in international professional environments.

A supportive environment to grow

My time at Sheffield was a very positive experience, both academically and personally.

I found the city to be safe, friendly, and welcoming, which helped me settle in quickly as an international student. It gave me a strong sense of comfort and community, allowing me to focus on my studies.

I also had a very positive experience with the Management School. The lecturers were approachable and supportive, and my tutor provided detailed guidance on my dissertation, helping me improve both my academic thinking and research skills. I also felt a strong sense of encouragement and personal support, which left a lasting impression on me.

My advice for future students

I would advise students interested in marketing, international business, or the events industry to focus on three things.

First, build a strong foundation in business and marketing strategy, and understand how marketing connects with wider business goals.

Second, gain as much practical experience as possible through real projects, teamwork, and case studies. These experiences are essential for developing skills in market research, campaign planning, and problem-solving.

Third, develop an international mindset and strong communication skills. In my current role, I work across regions and cultures, and the ability to collaborate and adapt is essential.

I would also encourage students to stay curious about digital tools and emerging areas such as AI and sustainability, as these are becoming increasingly important in marketing.