IT TAKES AMBITION to make the most out of your future, and one surefire way to invest in your own success is to pursue an Executive MBA or MBA. That’s what Anna Cairns did, and she hasn’t looked back since. She began in brick and mortar retail, then moved into e-commerce and operations. Now the General Manager of a multi-channel brand, moving into strategic execution required a different muscle. The UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School EMBA gave her the toolkit to transition from operational delivery to strategic accountability. Graduating with an MBA from the school was the launchpad for her to stand out and succeed.

Patrick Bolger Patrick Bolger

The UCD Smurfit School’s reputation precedes it: For more than 20 years it has an established history of setting its graduates on a path to leadership roles in global business. The school has proudly held the prestigious “triple crown” of accreditation — EQUIS (Europe), AACSB (US) and AMBA (UK) — a distinction shared by only a select group of elite business schools worldwide. This is a recognised marker of quality that guarantees you the highest quality business education.

The transformational experience that Cairns had there offers an unequalled opportunity to an outstanding and challenging academic curriculum, unlocking and developing leadership potential, accelerating career and building a global network real-time in the workplace. She talked to us about her experience:

What motivated you to pursue an Executive MBA at this stage in your career, and what were you hoping it would unlock for you professionally?

We are experiencing a high velocity of change and there’s a lot of uncertainty. I have felt that for a while now, I think most leaders have.  To lead well in this environment, building capability is essential, not only in hard technical skills, but also softer skills that strengthen judgement, awareness, and critical thinking.

You’re a scholarship awardee — what did receiving this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

It is not often in adult life that we receive recognition of that magnitude. Professionally, it strengthened my confidence. Personally, I hope it shows my two daughters, and any woman who knows me, the importance of putting yourself forward, owning what you have achieved, and being proud of it. 

How has the flexible structure of the two-year Executive MBA helped you balance your studies with work and personal commitments?

The modular structure of the EMBA has made it both accessible and achievable for me. I travel to campus from Galway, so having the modules delivered in blocks is very helpful logistically. The schedule is shared well in advance, which allows me to plan ahead for family and work commitments.

The Executive MBA places a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Can you share an example of how you’ve applied what you’ve learned directly in your workplace?

I am not sure I could name just one. I take something back from every block weekend.

Having time away in a learning environment, with the opportunity to connect the content directly to my role, is always thought provoking.It is not always about a major project; micro insights and small adjustments compound over time and build momentum.

Leadership development is a core focus of the programme. How has your leadership style evolved since starting the MBA?

Overall, I think differently and approach situations asking better questions. The programme includes a dedicated module, LEAP (Leadership & Employability Advancement Programme), focused on core leadership competencies and self reflection. Its impact is immediate because it increases your awareness of your strengths and the areas you need to develop, which helps you lead more consciously.

The school is known for its global outlook and international faculty. How has that exposure broadened your perspective?

Global exposure has broadened my perspective by challenging the way I define “best practice.” Before, I often viewed business problems through the lens of my own market and experience. Learning in an environment with international faculty and peers has shown me that strong leadership and strategy are highly context-dependent. 
Networking is often cited as a major benefit of an MBA. What has your experience been like connecting with classmates and the wider alumni community?

Connecting with classmates has been the most valuable part for me. It is a group of like minded, ambitious, high achieving people in one room. The strength of participation and contribution means we learn from each other as much as we do from the lecturers. The wider alumni community is also very accessible, and people are generous in offering their time, resources, and support.

For women considering taking the next step in their careers, what would you say about the value of attending the Women on the MBA Webinar?
The discovery phase really helped me understand whether the MBA was the right fit for me, whether I could commit to the programme, and it strengthened my application. The webinar will be packed with information and will give you a great feel for the UCD Smurfit community. The most valuable takeaway is the added clarity that will help to inform your decision.
Looking ahead, how do you see the Executive MBA shaping your long-term career ambitions — and what advice would you give to someone considering applying?

Right now, I am thoroughly enjoying the EMBA experience. It has definitely expanded my ambitions. For anyone considering applying, it is a powerful marker that you want more. The process itself is incredibly self-reflective and encourages you to really solidify what that is. You have absolutely nothing to lose, and so much to gain, go for it!

MBA applicants can undertake either the 1-year full-time MBA programme or the 2-year part-time Executive MBA. Support your career development and be prepared for the challenges of leadership in an ever changing world – register for the UCD Smurfit School Women on the MBA Webinar.