Celebrating Excellence: Honoring the Inspiring Journeys of Alliance Manchester Business School Graduates
As we celebrate another year of graduations at Alliance Manchester Business School, we reflect on the unique journeys of each cohort. While the faces may change, the stories remain diverse and inspiring. It’s the equal effort from students and the Business School alike that propels the community forward, pushing boundaries and striving for excellence in all that our graduates do. Let’s honour this milestone together, recognising the hard work and dedication that have brought these graduates to this moment. Congratulations.
Director of the Alliance Manchester Business School Global MBA Programme
Greetings, Class of 2025. Congratulations on reaching the end of your Global MBA journey! This is a very exciting time to graduate with an MBA and I am confident that the knowledge and skills you are now equipped with will enable you to make the most out of the many opportunities that a dynamic business environment brings. The world is rapidly changing due to unprecedented technological advancements, new geopolitical forces and evolving social realities, yet the Global MBA programme remains committed to its mission — delivering practical, high-quality business education that is practical while responding thoughtfully to today’s challenges.
At Alliance Manchester Business School, we strongly believe that a generalist education is more necessary than ever in these uncertain times. While specific knowledge and skills targeting specific sectors and job functions are crucial, we are confident that fostering students’ communication, strategic thinking and leaderships skills while boosting creativity and confidence – will give students the means to find their own blueprints for success.
Leading a part-time MBA program forward through a turbulent world is not without challenges, but with an agile approach – and support from all students, alumni and faculty – we continue to thrive. The University of Manchester’s East Asia Centre remains a major hub in a region that’s remained one of the most economically dynamic in the world, and it continues to draw in opportunities and connect leaders while creating community.
In a world rife with both risk and opportunity, the Global MBA offers a springboard for success that’s tailor-made for the times. Hearty congratulations once again to every graduate on reaching this academic milestone – new endeavours await.
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With over 18 years of experience in sales, engineering, procurement and international project management under his belt that’s gained within the energy industry, Koji Horikawa was hoping to level up on his career with a skillset refresh.
From the tangible – like negotiation and digital marketing strategies – to the intangible, like embracing a more analytical mindset during decision-making processes, the MBA conferred skills upon Koji that brought an immediate boost to his work performance, whether it’s project management or customer engagement.
The Global MBA’s greatest gift to Koji was a greater sense of confidence whether it’s in building networks or executive decision-making. These benefits continue to reverberate through his daily work in ways big and small.
Koji Horikawa
Recent Graduate (Distinction)
Sales / Business Development
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With a well-established career in tech, Lijun Liu was looking for a degree that could enhance her knowledge base while delivering new networking opportunities.
In the MBA, she found a highly practical curriculum offering skills that are easily transferable to the workplace. Using frameworks learnt from the programme – such as the 5 Forces and Value Chain analysis – she was able to improve alignment between AI solutions and business objectives. By the end of her MBA journey, Lijun had managed to successfully parlay her expertise into managerial smarts, resulting in ascension to a more senior role within her department as a Data & AI Solution Specialist.
Although balancing a full-time job with MBA studies and family commitments was occasionally a struggle, Lijun believes that the structure and flexibility of the MBA programme made this not only possible but sustainable.
Lijun Liu
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Data & AI Solution Consultant
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“Enrolling for the Manchester Global MBA was one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life,” says Yoshiki Yamaguchi – with just the slightest touch of hyperbole. “Not only did it sharpen my critical thinking and problem-solving skills, it’s given me the mental tools to analyse challenges from a strategic viewpoint rather than relying simply on intuition. “
The practical focus of the curriculum was what drew Yoshiki to the degree in the first place, but it was the camaraderie he found amongst the cohort that left the deepest impact, as did the connections that flourished between him and his fellow classmates. “Many of my classmates are leaders in their fields,’ he says, ‘but understood without question the importance of teamwork and the need for mutual respect.” This sense of generosity and support infusing the programme is what made Yoshiki’s MBA journey transformative.
Yoshiki Yamaguchi
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Country Manager PU&HBS
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It has been a transformative academic journey for Li Ping, who was aiming to diversify and accelerate his career in wealth management after relocating to Hong Kong.
With many years of experience under his belt, Li Ping firmly favors practical management skills over theoretical knowledge. The Global MBA delivered above and beyond in this respect. Not only did the case studies-led programme strengthen his leadership and strategic thinking skills in concrete ways, it also provided targeted lessons on fintech and management that was immediately useful to his work on innovating cross-border banking operations. These opened the door to further international banking opportunities.
“Embarking on MBA studies while re-locating to Hong Kong wasn’t easy,” he says, adding that the stress was compounded by family responsibilities in Taiwan. But the programme’s in-built flexibility made the process as smooth as possible.
Li Ping Lu
Recent Graduate (Merit)
AVP , Investment Operation
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The Global MBA programme was a natural pick for Tim Chan, a seasoned marketing executive seeking a multicultural environment offering global exposure. The degree offered exactly that, along with lessons that transformed his leadership style, improved his negotiation skills and sharpened his sense of business acumen. These improvements enabled him to expand his scope of work, take on greater responsibilities, and eventually lead a larger team – culminating, ultimately, in new career opportunities emerging.
As a working parent juggling work, studies and family commitments, Tim found the degree’s flexible structure perfect for his needs. The early release of the course schedule each semester, for instance, allowed him to better organize his own schedule. His favorite studying hack? Setting aside dedicated periods each day for research or simply catching up on assignments - that, and finding support in his family and friends.
Chan Chak Tim
Recent Graduate (Distinction)
Vice President, Digital Product and Marketing
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“The Manchester Global MBA was more than a degree — it was a transformational journey,” says Junggeun Jo, adding that it challenged him to “think globally, lead with purpose, and exit the comfort zone.”
From the provision of diverse global perspectives to practical application of business frameworks, the curriculum exceeded his expectations. Group projects and case studies sharpened his decision-making skills which applied perfectly to leading cross-functional initiatives at work.
The journey was not without hiccups though, especially when it comes to juggling family, work, and studies. “What helped was creating a focused time block for individual activities,” says Junggeun, “to reap the most out of the experience, with time management and clear prioritization being essential.”
Learning alongside professionals from vastly different backgrounds and with different leadership styles cross-cultural management, has become invaluable in managing multinational clients and partners.
Junggeun Jo
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Sales Executives
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What drew Timmy Li to the Global MBA in the first place was the programme’s hands-on approach to business education, centred on “Learning by Doing”. A veteran of the travel technology industry, Timmy was hoping to add to his existing arsenal of skills – from negotiation to strategic thinking – while fortifying global connections. Armed with skills gained through the MBA, Timmy ascended to a leadership role within the Customer Success Management team at his company after graduation.
While the professional rewards were clear, Timmy asserts that the MBA was “not just about hitting personal goals”. Rather, it’s the opportunities to actively engage with this cohort – such as serving as a student representative alongside cherished friends – that made the journey so rewarding.
Timmy Li Cho On
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Head of Customer Success Management-
North Asia, AirOps
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With over a decade’s experience in orchestrating enterprise solutions across APAC markets, solution architect IeHwan had his eye on the Global MBA right from the get-go on account of its hands-on and collaborations-led approach
“My top priority when choosing an MBA programme was whether it had a genuinely global perspective,” says IeHwan, and the Global MBA lived up to its promise by providing perspectives beyond Asia-Pacific’s traditional business networks.
For IeHwan, the degree struck the optimal benefit between practical application and academic rigor, delivering clear and concrete benefits in ways both tangible and intangible. “You will be bombarded with many essays, business papers and presentation preparations while juggling family life and work commitments,” he says, “but this provides an invaluable opportunity to build meaningful ties across global industries, and to broaden horizons.” Although his current role remains unchanged, the enhanced foundational skills – particularly in communication – he gained through the programme gave him a unique chance to give his career trajectory a reset.
IeHwan Yoon
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Sr. Solution Architect
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A veteran of the luxury brand management in the Asia-Pacific, Anita Fung chose the Global MBA not only on account of its world-class reputation but also its deeply practical core.
“One of the most valuable aspects of the Manchester Global MBA”, says Anita, “was the way it focused on practical learning experiences.” A prime example was how case-study-led business projects mirroring real-world challenges were an integral part of the curriculum. This hands-on approach allowed her to apply theoretical knowledge learnt during class onto workplace scenarios, such as negotiation procedures involving complex contracts and multiple stakeholders.
“The diversity and calibre of my cohort were truly impressive,” she continued, asserting that it’s that mix of perspectives that helped propel discussion sessions. Collaborating with them wasn’t only professionally and personally rewarding, but shed new light on her understanding of global business practices.
The programme’s emphasis on sustainable business practices and global responsibility aligned perfectly with her personal values. “The MBA gave me the critical thinking skills and knowledge to lead these initiatives at work,” says Anita, “particularly when it comes to aligning sustainability standards at work with global standards.” This shift in focus brought changes and unexpected rewards to her career development post-MBA.
Anita Fung
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Entrepreneur
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Leading teams across worldwide locations is part of Vincent’s daily work, so finding an MBA with a similarly globally minded approach is key. “The Global MBA fitted my needs and long-term goals more than a Hong Kong-based MBA, mainly due to its diversity,’ he says, adding that the opportunity to study at global centres was hugely appealing. Its flexibility also sets it apart from the crowd. “Many local MBAs in HK require rigid in-person attendance, which would have limited my ability to balance professional and academic commitments,” says Vincent.
Personally, he found the “Leading and Managing in a Global environment” module most relevant and helpful to his work life, which at that moment involved large-scale restructuring of his client advisory team. Case studies mirroring real banking challenges were well-integrated into classes. Ultimately, it enriched his ability to design inclusive, global and scalable solutions in corporate banking while giving him the confidence to take on higher-value projects.
Another personal highlight for him was how the diversity wasn’t merely theoretical or performative. With professionals from all over the world in the cohort - including entrepreneurs, executives and policymakers – every discussion became a masterclass in cross-cultural leadership. While his professional role hasn’t changed significantly post-graduation, the Global MBA gave Vincent the right tools to drive greater impact in his work. “Worth every moment” is how he would sum up his experience of the Global MBA.
Vincent Zhong
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Regional Service Manager
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Xueyu Zhou discovered in the Global MBA a wealth of insight on propelling his career forward while deepening specific skills. “It delivered actionable knowledge when I needed it most,” he says, “as well as cultivating habits critical for success”. From a more disciplined approach to his work to better time management skills, the degree shaped him into a more effective leader while conferring upon his concrete skills in fundraising and negotiation.
The diversity of his cohort also provided inspiration, sparking new ideas and ways of innovating his career. “Their distinct personalities and approaches pointed to so many pathways for success,” says Xueyue, referring to the culturally and professionally diverse nature of his cohort. Armed with insight he gained through the programme, Xueyu was able to drive his company towards significant growth - and a personal flow state of productivity.
Xueyu Zhou
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Founder and General Manager
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Communications expert Lois Wan was looking for an MBA that really ticks all the boxes – top ranking, a multicultural learning environment and practical curriculum with in-built flexibility.
“This completely lived up to my expectations in terms of practicality and flexibility,” says Lois. But it was the nuanced and targeted ways these lessons were delivered that left the greatest impact on her career, culminating in a soft skills reset. Through the degree, she brushed up on skills ranging from negotiation to infusing storytelling elements into communication. At the end of her journey, she was handling projects boasting a broader scope and a greater set of responsibilities.
Lois Wan
Recent Graduate (Distinction)
ESG & Corporate Communications Manager, APAC
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As a seasoned finance professional and parent of two young children, Momoko Karasawa was hoping to lock down an MBA that can deliver a kick to her career while fitting seamlessly with her packed schedule.
“It was a very fulfilling two years,” says Momoko, enthusing that while she was really busy, “the experience was never less than enjoyable.” She initially worried that keeping up with her classmates might be an issue, but her classmates proved to be the biggest source of support, spurring her on with an abundance of positive energy.
From practical lessons to collaborative projects to the cumulative final-year Live Business Project, the degree gave Momoko a skills refresh while connecting her with a wide network of professionals. As her MBA journey comes to an end, Momoko has a tip to offer those wondering if an MBA is the way to go, and whether it can be fitted into a hectic schedule. “Impromptu study sessions have always worked for me,” she says, adding how she eased the burden of studying by relying on random moments throughout the day to catch up on her studies, such as before bedtime.
Momoko Karasawa
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Staff General Manager of Asset Management
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I’m very satisfied with the outcome of this MBA program, especially as someone whose background has always been exclusively in tech,” says Gene Yau, an e-commerce expert whose career spanned industries as varied as entertainment and F&B.
Flexibility definitely played a major part in his initial decision to go for the Manchester Global MBA, but the allure of the programme extended beyond that. The curriculum’s invigorating blend of the theoretical and hands-on also held great appeal, particularly in the seamless way each lesson learnt translated into real-life skills and, eventually, career boosts beyond initial expectations. Gene explained how he was an operations staff at his company when he started his MBA studies, but grew into his company’s technology specialist as time progressed, eventually taking on the added responsibility of expanding his company’s horizons through tech-based initiatives.
Learning to view things through a business POV not only helped Gene develop a better understanding of how corporations operate on a macro and micro level, but strengthened his soft skills - especially when it comes to keeping communication tactful yet effective. It’s this sense of balance that makes the degree a perfect fit for Gene.
Gene Yau
Recent Graduate (Distinction)
Tech Lead
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With the hope of cultivating a stronger sense of leadership that would effectively set him on the pathway towards senior management, Taiki Miyama chose the Global MBA to refresh his existing skill set while seeking new perspectives.
“The diverse cohort and global workshops exceeded my expectations,” the supply chain manager says. Not only did the degree provide him with the curiosity and critical mindset to identify gaps in logic while strengthening his analytical thinking skills, it also expanded and fortified his professional network.
“The Manchester Global MBA was a turning point in both my professional and personal development,” says Taiki. “It changed how I perceive the world — even when reading the news, I now notice the underlying systems, strategies, and economic drivers at play.” These perspectives and experiences have been crucial in preparing him for future leadership roles in global supply chain management.
Taiki Miyama
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Manager, Supply Chain and Operations
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A top-ranking MBA providing true global exposure has always been on the top of Kelvin’s agenda. In the Manchester Global MBA, he found a programme that fitted his expectations precisely while also delivering something extra.
His greatest takeaway was learning how to multitask effectively, as well as how to lead with greater agility. This led to something unexpected – after a long career in supply chain logistics, he segued into the manufacturing and engineering sector while still focusing primarily on sales and business development, but with a wider scope of interest.
The programme’s well-structured curriculum, clear timetabling and hybrid approach mixing face-to-face workshops with virtual lessons made the process seamless for Kelvin. Most importantly, it made complex lessons simple.
Kelvin Cheung
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Manager - Supply Chain Services
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After almost a decade in real estate management, Jenny Wong embarked on the Global MBA with the aim of broadening her skill-set and taking her role onto another level. Ultimately, the programme helped her move into a more strategically-focused position, with the Financial Planning & Analysis model particularly effective at helping her take on increasingly complex projects at work.
The Manchester motto of “Learning by Doing” infuses every part of the programme, as Jenny discovered. Whether through courses, workshops or peer-to-peer interaction, this practical-minded spirit gave Jenny the motivation – and skills – to implement more innovative strategies at work, engage more effectively with stakeholders and ultimately create win-win situations out of uncertainties.
The programme’s blended learning model and its flexibility were key to delivering these lessons with impact, resulting in a shift towards a role with greater strategic thinking and decision-making elements.
Jenny Wong
Recent Graduate (Distinction)
FP&A Manager
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As a seasoned construction manager and mother of three high-flyer kids being navigated in an academically rigorous education system, Calin believes in constant pushing limits.
The Global MBA delivered exactly that while bringing energy and focus to her professional. Out of a curriculum packed with deeply invigorating lessons blending theory and current practices, the Finance & Strategic business models stand out as the biggest highlight for Calin, gifting her specific skills that gave her the confidence to introduce new management initiatives in her professional.
By the end of the degree, Calin had shifted gears professionally from managing government infrastructure projects to private developer projects, along with a reset to her skills – hard and soft. Next to concrete professional gains, the people management skills she’s gained from the programme have left the biggest impact. This gave her the sense of confidence she needed to give her management style a reset.
Calin Ip
Recent Graduate (Merit)
Senior Manager
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Nikhil Bansal’s greatest takeaway from the MBA was learning how an organization works as an entire ecosystem, from the C-suite down to the ground level. Deeper understanding of the ecosystem of the company made it easier for him to understand and relate to decisions made by top management within his company. With this sense of context came clarity in his decision-making process, which had a profound impact on his leadership and working style.
Nikhil was promoted during the MBA, a feat he was proud of. His main takeaway from his MBA journey was this: “Ultimately, nobody in an organization is acting with the wrong intentions. It’s all a matter of different perspective.” For him, understanding and managing those expectations and needs is what’s needed in becoming a more effective leader.
Nikhil Bansal
Recent Graduate (Distinction)
Senior Manager
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Tel: (852) 2588 5061
Email: mba@manchester.edu.hk
Address: 33/F, Lee Garden One, Causeway Bay, HK
