SIMT MBA Graduate Portrait: Neil Fawkes

Neil Fawkes (33), born in the UK, graduated in 2004 from SIMT. He studied as a full-time MBA student International Management. Before coming to SIMT he studied Business Studies at the University of Plymouth. Now Mr. Fawkes works at Syngenta in Switzerland.

1. What was your job/career situation as you decided to pursue an MBA?

I was working for Nortel Networks a telecommunications equipment manufacturer, in a sales support/market support role for Optical business team.

2. What are the best elements in the SIMT MBA program in your opinion?

The most enjoyable were for me the Stratetgy, Innovation Management, Entrepreneurship courses. But the group work was the most beneficial and interesting as you get to work with other cultures, personalities, business backgrounds and can learn new approaches and methods.

3. Was the mix of backgrounds and cultures the other students offered beneficial and if so, how?

As above - different viewpoints and improves understanding of how to work with people with different mentalities. But at the end of the day 100% of cultures like to have fun and that came across in all of the team related work that we did.

4. How has the SIMT MBA helped in the development of your career?

It has provided me with a more rounded eductional experience, has improved my skill tool set and allowed me to consider jobs were previously I would not have had the experience or qualifications for.

5. What did you learn that is important for your current job (e.g. specialized knowledge, soft skills)?

Strategic Management methods - tools and methods for analysing business opportunities, high level financial understanding (e.g. NPV, IRR, Real Options), presentation skills, team management and support.

6. How would you sum up the experience of studying at the SIMT?

A fantastic experience, new friends from all over the world, a new city I can feel at home in and a new language "Swabian"

7. Why would you recommend the SIMT to others?

SIMT has 1st class facilities. A place that is a perfect environment to study and concentrate on your MBA studies. In addition SIMT has the support staff/experience to make the transition to another country and culture a smooth and painless experience. Finally the teaching - the range of nationalities for the teaching is a definate plus as you can get unique insight into leadig business concepts from around the world.