Interview: Ramla EISA Al SHIRI, AE MBA 2018

RAMLA EISA AL SHIRI (2018 promo)
learner of the Aerospace MBA.

Can you tell us what your career was before you joined TBS Aerospace MBA?

I joined Mercator, an information technology company of the Emirates Group, in 2000 as a management trainee, right after graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Business Information Technology. I then moved to a business analyst position to design technology solutions for Singapore Airlines, Emirates and SriLankan Airlines.

After five years working on technology projects, I decided to change for the domain of internal management consulting to leverage my analytical skills in the business world. After two years, I was appointed Account Manager for one of Emirates' largest commercial accounts, our Flight Operations Department.

After five years in Air Operations, I took on a new challenge and accepted a senior position as Director of the Program Management Office. I provide to the companies of Emirates group with a range of services that reinforce world-class project management and change application standards.

How did you hear about TBS?

It came from my HR department, while I was looking for an MBA abroad. They encouraged me to apply and benefit from the generous scholarship offered by ATR and to join a reputable university located in the heart of one of the world's aviation capitals.

Why did you decide to embark on a demanding training and why choose this very specific MBA?

I have always wanted to take an MBA in another country, where I could meet industry professionals from all over the world and learn from them. I found the program flexible. I can take a lot of classes at home, near my family and children, and at the same time, I enjoy being a full-time dive in the program twice a year when I am at TBS. Why did you choose the part-time program? It allows me to manage my other responsibilities while working towards a degree.

What did the training bring you and what did you appreciate the most?

I enjoyed meeting these very knowledgeable professionals from around the world and learning from teachers and stakeholders. I also appreciated that the program includes visits to other aeronautical capitals around the world, where we visited other universities and other companies. The leadership sessions were also very informative. I loved the city of Toulouse. The people are incredibly kind and helpful. I decided to learn a little French, which I liked.

What was the most difficult?

The return to Dubai after a stay at school was difficult for me because I had a lot of work to catch up with. As well as the fact that compulsory teaching sessions in Toulouse coincided with my children's return to school in autumn and again in spring.