UFred Alum Matthew Bowen finds Executive MBA education allowed him to provide strategic value, becoming a more impactful leader
Matthew Bowen serves as the Chief Executive Officer for Haldimand Norfolk Housing Corporation. He is responsible for leading the multi-municipality government organization providing affordable housing to the community’s most vulnerable.
Matthew’s choice to pursue the Executive MBA program was based on three key factors: he has a love for learning and self-improvement, a desire to expand his future career opportunities, and he wanted to expand on the tools available to him when looking at different scenarios in his professional life, developing practical and innovative solutions.
Matthew focused primarily on flexibility when choosing where to complete his MBA. With UFred’s fully online programs, it was the perfect fit for his busy life.
“I ultimately selected UFred for the flexibility and fully online learning platform. As a single father and executive, I needed the flexibility to accommodate my very busy schedule and lifestyle.”
Highlights of the UFred Experience and Program Applicability
Matthew’s highlight of the program was networking and building relationships that have continued beyond graduation. Working with others from across the country and numerous industries introduced him to new perspectives that he has since taken into his workplace.
The information Matthew gained throughout his MBA he found to be largely applicable, noting he was able to “…hit the ground running introducing techniques and tested practices and theories in the workplace.”
“Throughout my education, I have implemented learned ideas and concepts and shared them with the senior leadership team who have in turn shared them with the front-line staff.”
Achieving his MBA impacted the knowledge Matthew brings to his role, as well as the confidence he feels in his critical and strategic thinking abilities and the kind of leader he is. He said, “I have gained a stronger self-awareness that has enabled me to be a more impactful leader.”
Moving Forward: Goals and Advice to Future Students
Matthew’s future plans involve shifting from the public sector into the private sector in a leadership role such as CEO.
“My education from UFred has enabled me to strengthen and further develop a deeper sense of self-awareness, coupled with a richer understanding of practical and technical skills like strategic planning, finance, and leadership which are all necessary at the next level."
For those planning to complete the Executive MBA program, Matthew shares some advice:
“Enjoy the journey, be prepared, and attend with an open mind. Don’t be afraid to engage and ask the questions that are on your mind. Professors and staff are very responsive, and knowledgeable.”