Amr Tarek

1. What was the main reason for you to do an MBA? And why did you decide to do your MBA at RSM?

“I chose to pursue an MBA to broaden my perspective, strengthen my strategic mindset, and continue learning in a structured, challenging environment. As a leader, I see value not only in driving business outcomes but also in developing the ability to inspire, coach, and empower others.

RSM’s Global Executive MBA stood out for its global reach, diverse peer network, and its unique integration of leadership development with academic rigor. The programme goes beyond theory, pushing me to explore the unknown unknowns, challenge assumptions, and expand my thinking through the experiences of professors, mentors, and peers.

For me, the MBA is less about a career move and more about a personal and professional transformation: deepening self-awareness, building entrepreneurial perspective, and preparing to lead with impact in a world of constant change.”

2. What expectations did you have studying for your Global Executive MBA in an uncertain world?

“Entering the GEMBA, I expected a programme that would prepare me to lead in a world defined by disruption and complexity. As industries are reshaped by digital transformation, AI, and shifting global dynamics, I wanted to strengthen my ability to adapt quickly, make decisions with clarity, and guide teams through uncertainty.

At the same time, I was looking for a deeper perspective on how to balance strategic execution with leadership in complex environments. My expectation was not only to gain new knowledge, but also to test and refine it in real-world contexts, alongside peers facing similar challenges in different industries and regions.

Ultimately, I expected the GEMBA to be more than an academic journey – a platform to sharpen resilience, broaden perspective, and elevate my leadership impact in a world that never stands still.”

3. How would you describe your RSM GEMBA experience so far?

“It’s been nothing short of transformative and eye-opening. On a personal level, the Strategic Leadership Development (SLD) curriculum has been a cornerstone of the journey. It has pushed me to reflect deeply, strengthen my self-awareness, and develop the leadership skills needed to inspire, coach, and empower others.

On a professional level, the programme has been equally impactful. Courses such as Marketing in the New Era, Strategy, Decision-Making, Accounting, Operations Management, Digital Transformation, and Entrepreneurship have equipped me with frameworks and tools directly relevant to my role. I find myself applying these lessons immediately – whether in navigating complex decisions, refining strategy execution, or identifying new opportunities for innovation.

Overall, the GEMBA is far more than academic learning; it is a 360° growth journey, combining leadership transformation with practical impact that elevates both my current work and future ambitions.”

4. What has been the most challenging assignment or course during the GEMBA so far? How did it challenge you?

“The biggest challenge came during the kick-off week, which immediately set the tone for the programme. Working to solve complex problems under tight pressure with peers that I had just met highlighted how essential communication, trust, and leadership presence are. The fire drill exercise in particular pushed me to step forward with limited information, make decisions with confidence, and guide a team through ambiguity. It was intense, but it accelerated my growth from day one.

The Strategy course later stretched me in a different way, forcing me to challenge assumptions and push beyond familiar boundaries. Both experiences reinforced a key lesson: true growth comes from discomfort – and it is in those moments that leadership is tested and strengthened.”

5. What is the highlight of the GEMBA curriculum for you?

“The Global Experiential Learning (GEL) modules have been the standout highlight of the GEMBA. In Singapore, examining digital transformation from the perspective of country, company, and individual was eye-opening. Seeing how AI and technology reshape industries gave me lessons I could immediately apply at work, reinforcing how strategy and execution must align in times of disruption.

In Stockholm, the focus on entrepreneurship helped me overcome hesitations I had about starting new ventures. Learning directly from start-ups showed the importance of finding the right problem, building the right team, and embracing progress over perfection. It was a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship thrives on adaptability rather than certainty.

Together, these experiences bridged theory with practice and expanded my perspective, making the curriculum not only relevant but truly transformative.”

6. What impact does the Strategic Leadership Development (SLD) component of the programme have on you?

“The Strategic Leadership Development (SLD) has been the anchor of my GEMBA journey. It starts with self-leadership – developing self-awareness, understanding my strengths and blind spots, and using real feedback to define focus areas for growth.

From there, it expands to leading others. I have sharpened my communication, presentation skills, and executive presence, learning how to inspire, delegate, and create space for my team to thrive.

Finally, SLD elevates the perspective to the organisational and boardroom level, preparing me with the mindset and skills to lead with impact in complex environments. For me, it has been a continuous thread of growth, transforming leadership from the inside out.”

7. If you had to choose one Sustainable Development Goal, which one would you choose, and why?

“If I had to choose one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, it would be SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

Innovation is the engine of progress. In my career in technology and cybersecurity, I’ve seen how the right infrastructure and digital transformation unlock opportunities, build resilience, and drive sustainable growth. This goal resonates with me because it is not only about systems, but about enabling people, businesses, and societies to thrive in a world of constant change.

The GEMBA reinforced this view by showing how innovation and infrastructure shape competitiveness on a global scale. For me, contributing to this goal means championing innovation inside organisations, fostering intrapreneurship, and encouraging bold ideas that can be scaled responsibly.”

8. Has your GEMBA journey changed your outlook on what your career will be like after doing an MBA? If so, how?

“Yes – the GEMBA has fundamentally reshaped my career outlook. Coming from a technology background, I once saw a linear path for climbing the corporate ladder. This programme has expanded that view, equipping me with a strategic leadership toolbox and showing me that leadership is not about being the smartest in the room, but about setting the right strategy, building the right team, and enabling progress at scale.

It has also shifted how I see my own role. I have moved from focusing on execution to embracing self-leadership, delegation, and empowerment, recognising that true impact comes from enabling others to grow. Through multiple C-level interactions, I have gained the confidence and presence to engage at the executive and boardroom level.

Perhaps most importantly, the GEMBA opened my eyes to new horizons – including entrepreneurship – proving that my career is not limited to one track, but can evolve in ways that combine corporate leadership, innovation, and personal growth.”

9. What advice could you give to people who are considering doing a Global Executive MBA?

“My advice is simple: if you are considering a Global Executive MBA, be ready for transformation.

First, embrace the intensity – it will push you far outside your comfort zone, but that is where true growth begins.

Second, apply what you learn immediately. The value of the GEMBA is not in theory alone, but in how you bring insights into your work and see them make a difference.

Finally, lean into the network. Your peers, professors, and mentors will shape your journey as much as the curriculum. The diversity of perspectives is what makes it truly global and unique.

The GEMBA is more than a career step. It is about widening your horizon, discovering new possibilities, and becoming the leader you aspire to be.”