From Engineer to Strategic Leader: A Journey of Transformation
Balancing personal struggles with professional demands hasn’t been easy. For many years, it felt like navigating through a series of dark tunnels, with each challenge feeling more daunting than the last. But enrolling in SP Jain Global’s Executive MBA (EMBA) program was the torch that helped me find clarity, direction, and purpose—guiding me through those tunnels and toward a brighter, more strategic future.
The decision to pursue an EMBA was driven by my desire to go beyond my core engineering expertise. With over 15 years of experience in the oil and gas sector, I had already made several forays into contract support, proposals development, and other non-technical roles. These experiences were valuable, but I knew that to continue growing in a world that’s constantly changing, I needed to broaden my skills to include strategic management and business leadership. I wanted to understand the bigger picture and move beyond the technical aspects of my job. The EMBA program at SP Jain Global seemed like the perfect opportunity to do just that.
Stepping Into the Unknown
The transition from engineer to strategic leader was a significant leap. I had been working in a specialized technical field for so long that stepping into a broader business management role felt daunting. However, the EMBA program at SP Jain Global gave me the courage to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new challenges. It was in this new environment that I began to learn how to effectively analyze financial reports, contribute meaningfully during town hall discussions, and bridge the gap between the technical and business sides of my organization.
The journey wasn’t easy. Initially, everything felt new and unfamiliar. But as I pushed myself, I began to gain confidence. The ability to see beyond the technicalities of my work and understand the business side of things helped me connect with colleagues from other departments. I started adding value in meetings, offering insights that bridged the technical with the business—insights that I never thought I could provide before.
The Online Advantage
At the outset, I had my reservations about the online nature of the program. Would I still get the same quality of education and the opportunity to engage with my peers and professors in the same way I would in a traditional classroom? But the Engaged Learning Online (ELO) platform at SP Jain Global completely changed my perspective.
The platform offered a learning experience that was as engaging, rigorous, and interactive as any in-person classroom session I’ve attended. It allowed me to attend classes from anywhere in the world, giving me the flexibility I needed to balance my professional and personal commitments. Whether it was attending lectures or participating in discussions, the experience felt like being in a physical classroom. The professors were equally engaged, and the technology used ensured that no aspect of learning was compromised.
The breakout room discussions were a standout feature of the program. These sessions, where we worked with peers from a variety of industries like FMCG, banking, software, and oil and gas, were invaluable. We collaborated on case studies, shared experiences, and approached business challenges from different angles. This not only deepened my understanding of the subject matter but also allowed me to develop a more nuanced understanding of business practices across different industries.
Growth Beyond the Classroom
The EMBA program had an enormous impact on me, not only as a professional but as a person. I have always been someone who thrives on challenges, but the program helped me develop emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills in ways I never thought possible. My ability to manage complex business situations improved significantly, and I began to develop a more strategic approach to problem-solving.
One of the highlights of this journey was being awarded the President’s Award for Global Excellence. Being the first student from the Dubai campus to receive this honor was a moment I’ll always cherish. It was a testament to my commitment to the program and a reflection of the hard work I put into balancing my demanding job with my studies. This award validated my efforts and further fueled my drive to excel.
A Graduation to Remember
Graduation day was a culmination of months of dedication, hard work, and growth. As I stood among my peers and professors, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The program had not only provided me with new knowledge and skills but had also transformed me into a more confident, capable, and strategic leader. It wasn’t just about earning an EMBA—it was about gaining the confidence to lead, to make smarter business decisions, and to embrace new opportunities.
Today, I feel equipped to leverage my expertise in technical safety and project management alongside my newfound skills in strategic management, digital marketing, and business data analysis. These skills have already opened up new opportunities for me professionally, allowing me to contribute more effectively to my organization’s growth.
Adapting to New Roles
In addition to the technical safety roles that I’ve excelled in over the years, the EMBA program has opened doors for me to take on strategic roles, such as leading contract support, proposals development, and even managing projects with budgets exceeding $300 million. The program has enabled me to build on my experience, expanding my skill set and enhancing my ability to make strategic decisions. This has been a game-changer, not just for my career but also for my personal growth.
As a Technical Safety Specialist, I now undertake responsibilities such as technical assessments, pre-tendering activities, and bid preparation. With the additional business acumen I gained through the EMBA program, I am able to contribute to the technical and commercial evaluations of projects, ensuring both safety and profitability. The ability to view projects from a strategic lens and contribute to the broader business objectives has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career shift.
Advice for Aspiring EMBA Students
If you’re contemplating an EMBA, I have just one piece of advice: plan carefully, analyze your priorities, and trust the process. The journey isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Success is built on perseverance, continuous learning, and the willingness to step outside your comfort zone.
The EMBA program didn’t just light my path—it redefined my journey. It equipped me with the tools, knowledge, and mindset needed to navigate challenges, adapt to new roles, and thrive in an increasingly complex world. For anyone ready to embrace this transformative experience, I can assure you that the rewards are worth every effort.
About the Author
Sivaramakrishnan is a Technical Safety Specialist with over 15 years of experience in the oil and gas energy sector. Based in Abu Dhabi, he has managed projects worth over $300 million and is skilled in strategic planning, pre-tendering, and bid preparation. A recipient of the President’s Award for Global Excellence, Sivaramakrishnan recently graduated from SP Jain Global’s EMBA program, which he credits for transforming both his personal and professional journey.
