David Wang (MBA 2020): How my MBA prepared me for a career in technology in China

David Wang studied an MBA at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, excited by the opportunity to move his professional career to a new part of Asia and learn new skills along the way.

Since graduating, he’s worked for both Amazon and Meta, two of the largest technology companies in the world. We spoke to David to learn more about his MBA journey and to find out how the programme at Chinese University of Hong Kong equipped him with the knowledge and professional network required to succeed in one of the fastest-growing business sectors today.

What were your main motivations for studying an MBA?

My main motivation was to change my working location and advance my career in the digital marketing and business profession by working in mainland China. Before the MBA, I only had work experience in Taiwan and I wanted to broaden it.

Why did the MBA programme at CUHK appeal to you?

There are three main reasons. The first was the diversified range of course concentrations at the school, particularly around entrepreneurship and innovation. The second was the campus in Shenzhen and the strong connection it would provide to China.

Finally, there were also the resources available to assist with career growth, including CV support, and the Elite Mentorship Programme.

Were there any particular skills you were hoping to develop over the course of your studies?

I wanted to improve my business analytics knowledge, particularly in the areas of data visualisation, digital marketing, and database and big data management.

I was also aware of the opportunity to improve my pitching skills, things like negotiating, presenting and communication.

How would you describe the impact of the MBA programme at CUHK on your career journey?

There have been numerous positive impacts that I did not expect. During the MBA programme period, I got a paid intern job which enabled me to learn more about the internet industry in Hong Kong. I also got three opportunities to experience work with different local companies to design new products, make a social impact or work on improving existing business models.

For example, I was able to work on one project involving the planning of a new insurance product that was required during the pandemic.

Before I’d even graduated, I had received three job offers from three different global companies, found a job that matched my ambitions and changed my job location successfully.

What impact did your MBA have on finding professional opportunities within the technology industry?

One of the main advantages from CUHK MBA is its strong connection with Shenzhen, known as China’s Silicon Valley. Not only are there several courses offered at the CUHK campus in Shenzhen, but there are also numerous networking resources available. Fortunately, after graduating, I was able to secure my dream job at Amazon, thanks to a referral from a classmate from the part-time MBA program in Shenzhen.

What does your current role at Meta involve? How has your MBA experience benefited you?

My main responsibilities at Meta are to build relationships, drive marketing solutions, and deliver revenue result with managed client.

I can now use the data visualisation skills I learned and am able to give presentations with a more confident mindset. My public speaking skills enable me to communicate with impact when speaking to clients.

I’ve also been able to better analyse the performance of client companies and remodel marketing, financial and strategic solutions.

What are the benefits of studying an MBA at a school with a global alumni network?

I’ve attended several CUHK alumni events in Shanghai or Hong Kong after graduation. The school’s network also provided a lot of support when I first arrived in the city as I wasn’t familiar with it before and I’ve been able to develop close friendships with some alumni.

What are some of your remaining short-term and long-term career goals?

In the short-term, I want to become a professional expert of cross-border internet business in mainland China. In the long-term, I aspire to transition into a career coach and corporate trainer, using public speaking to educate and help others.

This original article was published by the QS Top MBA.