Vaccines Brand Manager at GlaxoSmithKline

“As a Vaccines Brand Manager at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), my role sees me developing and executing strategic business plans. I am really passionate about the work we do to help protect Kiwis from the devastating impact of potentially deadly diseases.

“My previous degrees were very scientific, which I loved, but I didn’t see myself working in a laboratory setting. I prefer looking at the bigger picture and seeing how my work can impact those around me.

“I wanted to be able to extend my career through this commercial path and decided that it would be great to gain a tertiary qualification in a more relevant, commercial field. The MBM seemed like a great fit as it is designed for people who work full-time, and there is flexibility should I want to complete the masters part-time or full-time.

“The most value that I have gained from the MBM so far are the higher-level, broader skills, such as working and collaborating with peers in a diverse cohort, as well as breadth of knowledge in lots of different areas in a business context. In particular, the marketing and finance papers I have completed have been very relevant to my roles. It has been good to be able to consider new theories or ideas when working through strategic planning.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed studying with my cohort. On our first day, I formed a group with five others, and though some of us are in different classes now, we still keep up with each other – it’s great to be able to form friendships through the course.

“Whether on-campus or virtually, I have particularly enjoyed the class/group discussions. It is great to hear different opinions of our peers – it really adds to the content when we can hear first-hand experiences of others who may work in a different industry or type of role.

“I absolutely love what I am doing, though I’m still at a relatively early stage in my career. The MBM is providing me with tools to expand the breadth of my business management understanding, and I am hoping that ultimately, it will help me work towards my goals of working in higher-level management.”