Nyema Ndu-Iheme
Global Online MBA (2023 - 2025)

Tell us a bit about yourself

I am a female professional in the Energy sector with over 17 years’ experience working in various specialised fields where I have acquired skills in Relationship Management, Communication, Negotiation, Enterprise Risk Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Talent Management and Strategic Leadership. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria, my career has been driven by a commitment to excellence and a deep-seated passion for people, leadership, and management.

Currently, I am a Talent Manager with a multinational energy company supporting the career of a diverse team of about 120 staff and 27 managers. I am also a mother to three lovely teenage boys.

Throughout my professional journey, I have always prioritised leadership and the development of a diverse, inclusive work environment. I am deeply interested in business strategy, change management, and the evolving digital landscape, which is reshaping how we think about process optimisation and simplification in the business world.

I decided to join Warwick Business School’s Global Online MBA programme to broaden my perspective on global business dynamics, expand my knowledge in business strategy and leadership, and equip myself with decision-making tools necessary for a VUCA world.

What first attracted you to Warwick Business School?

What first attracted me to Warwick Business School (WBS) for my MBA was its outstanding global reputation highlighted by its number one rank in the 2022 Financial Times Online MBA ranking and the flexibility of its Global MBA programme. As someone who needed to balance professional commitments with personal development, the ability to access world-class education 24/7 from anywhere in the world was incredibly appealing. Warwick's emphasis on innovation and its strong alumni network was also interesting to me. Reading up about WBS I was also impressed by its commitment to diversity and inclusion which promised an enriched learning environment, bringing together perspectives from around the globe to enhance the educational experience.

Why did you ultimately choose Warwick Business School for your MBA?

The flexible approach to studies, through innovative online platforms, interactive webinar learning, and face-to-face classes allowing students engage in dynamic discussions, case studies, and real-world simulations.

The programme's emphasis on innovative teaching methods, commitment to excellence, and personal development support was a strong pull to me making the decision. The knowledge that I would receive individualised guidance tailored to my unique learning objectives with access to resources that would help me navigate my educational journey effectively was definitely a booster.

What elements of the programme do you value the most and why? 

The Global Online MBA programme generally has been a very transformative experience for me, with several key aspects standing out.

The choice of modules is excellent. But, particularly for me, a few modules exceeded my expectations; Strategic Advantage was very enlightening, offering insights into gaining and maintaining a competitive edges. The Operations Management and Marketing modules were equally impactful, providing practical skills needed in making positive impact in today’s business world. The Leadership module was a personal favourite, as it focused on developing essential skills crucial for change management and leading diverse teams in today's rapidly transforming business environment focusing on what makes a good leader and the possible pitfalls and leadership derailers to be aware of.

I deeply value the cohort in this programme. The diversity of people in my cohort from different countries, backgrounds, and industries around the world enriched the conversations during group project as well as during face-to-face sessions at Residential Week. I absolutely love Warwick Week! 

Additionally, the tutors for each module in the programme and the teaching methodology were all unique, and, in many ways, exceptional. Their approachable nature and readiness to support each student individually has significantly enhanced my learning experience.

Together, these elements have made the Global Online MBA at WBS a truly invaluable investment in my personal and professional development.

Can you tell us about your career plans? What’s next for you?

As for my career plans, I am looking forward to leveraging my MBA to transition into a higher-level business leadership position within the energy sector. Additionally, I'm exploring opportunities in leadership coaching and consulting.

How do you find the work/life balance?

As a mother of three teenagers, a Talent Manager for about 130 professionals, and a student in the Global MBA programme at WBS, I've personally experienced the challenges of juggling family, work, and education. It has certainly been demanding, but I've found that effective time management and adjusting my unrealistic expectations of my ability to give 100% to every area at all times have helped me navigate the difficult moments. Prioritising what needs my full attention at any given moment has been key. Open communication is vital, and learning to seek help when necessary has been invaluable.

Do you have any advice for anyone currently thinking about studying for an MBA?

For anyone considering pursuing an MBA, my advice would be to thoroughly research programmes, define your goals, and reach out to current students and alumni for insights before deciding. Choose the best programme that aligns with your personal goals and your current lifestyle. It's a life-changing experience that requires commitment and dedication, but the rewards are immeasurable in terms of personal and professional growth.