Meet Vincent Liau, ESSEC & Mannheim Executive MBA (EMBA) participant from the class of 2023. He shares why he decided to join an EMBA program after nearly two decades in the aerospace field and what he hopes to gain in the future.
Vincent Liau started his aerospace career as an officer at the Republic of Singapore Air Force. Five years into his service, he left the military and transitioned into the commercial world at ST Engineering Aerospace, the commercial aerospace entity of Singaporean MNC, ST Engineering.
From there, he progressed to US-headquartered aerospace MNC, Rockwell Collins, before finally landing where he is today as Head of APAC programs for Collins Aerospace, responsible for long-term business strategy development, program management, and execution for the company’s Asia-Pacific business.
Despite being armed with both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in engineering, and with decades of experience under his belt, he saw the ESSEC & Mannheim EMBA program as a good step for his career growth.
What motivated you to join ESSEC Asia-Pacific's ESSEC & Mannheim EMBA program?
I decided to embark on an EMBA as I needed inspiration and stimulation for my career. In the future, I plan to take on an associate director or director role either in my current company or outside of it.
I chose the ESSEC & Mannheim EMBA Asia-Pacific program in Singapore because I am impressed with ESSEC’s global network and reputation. I believe a qualification from the school will be a boost to my CV and helpful at any future job interviews.
What are some of your favorite parts about the EMBA program so far?
I like the structure of the classes. There is one intense week of classes a month, and we have the rest of the weeks to work on our projects. Doing the program in Singapore, where I work and live, is also extremely convenient. I am looking forward to developing camaraderie and friendships with other budding leaders in my cohort.
How do you feel the program’s global perspective with an Asian-focus will impact you?
I am well-traveled and have always enjoyed interacting with different cultures and learning about them, whether at work or on vacation. What I like about the program’s overseas residencies is that we will interact with the local students and alumni as professionals, not tourists. I look forward to hearing their different perspectives on different issues.
Since joining ESSEC Asia-Pacific, I’ve also become more appreciative of the cultural nuances in different parts of Asia. For example, we did a module on the Islamic economy with Prof Cedomir Nestorovic, where we learned how Islamic scholars could influence different parts of the economy. It helped me realize how different sectors of the country can play a vital role in society.
Any advice for future ESSEC & Mannheim EMBA candidates?
The program is very intense. I’d recommend clearing out more of your schedule to ensure you do not miss any of the classes.
Interested in the ESSEC & Mannheim Executive MBA Asia-Pacific program?
Find out more HERE or email us at emba-asia@essec.edu.