Dylan Thomas
"Fuqua offers a top-tier MBA program with a world-class community. What put them head and shoulders above other programs, though, was the integrity that I witnessed throughout the admissions process that demonstrated their stated values and relational approach. Fuqua walks their talk, and truly desires to develop compassionate business leaders who will make a difference.”
Global Executive MBA
Industry:
Prior Education:
Messiah University
Reflections
One of the most immediate applications of classroom learning to my work came from Professor Sim Sitkin’s leadership class. We wrote our Personal Development Plans as roadmaps to improving our individual leadership capacities as well as the team environments in which we work professionally. I was able to apply principles and actions from Professor Sitkin’s material while I equipped a new operator to lead one of our portfolio companies. The tools I learned in class helped me become more sensitive to the needs of this leader and empower them to better care for their new team.
Before Fuqua
I was the Managing Director of a diversified portfolio of operating companies, responsible for all capital, personnel, and strategic decisions.
After Fuqua
I am actively exploring feasibility for several business concepts in Africa. I intend to launch a new company in the consumer goods industry. Much of what is learned in the MBA program applies directly to these endeavors, and I look forward to keeping strong relationships with the Fuqua entrepreneurship network throughout my career.
Five Tips for Working Across Different Cultures
- Prioritize relationships over transactions, and remember that integrity transcends borders and cultures
- Never try to change something that you have not first understood – sit with the people that face the problem that you are trying to solve, and ask them how they would solve it
- Local knowledge is essential, so listen more than you speak
- Live, eat, and work the local way before asking locals to do it your way
- Remember that “the beauty of any place is always found in its people”