Learning to lead, the MBA way

Learning to lead, the MBA way

A veteran in the Composites and Adhesives industry, Jason Triggs chose to take on a larger role within his company. In order to equip himself with the necessary skills to lead his team, he joined RMIT’s MBA program – learn about his unique perspective and read on!

One reason people choose to take an MBA degree is due to the fact they discover themselves in situations that demand a transformation of their foundational work-related skills. 

This is where Jason Triggs, current MBA student in his final semester, found himself as the company whom he works for began to expand within Asia. Mr. Triggs took on a senior role at Allnex (composites and adhesives) as Commercial Director for New Business Development (NBD), Technical Services (TS) and Sales in Asia Pacific (APAC). 

However, coming from a technical background, Mr. Triggs knew that this new role was much more focused on the business side of the operation. He notes that “as changes within the group were happening, and specifically as we were being taken over by a Thai company, I took the challenge to be promoted and oversee a larger scope of the business. Personally, I wanted to rise up to that challenge and do well, but understood I needed to upskill myself in terms of leadership and strategic thinking. I also wanted to obtain a more holistic and forward-thinking view of the business.”

Although there were a number of online MBA options, Mr. Triggs wanted to be physically present in a classroom and being an Australian national, he knew RMIT’s reputation well. 

Jason Triggs, MBA student at RMIT Vietnam Jason Triggs, MBA student at RMIT Vietnam

With clear goals in mind, Mr. Triggs states that it was the core courses of Design Thinking for Business and Leadership and Management which had the most impact on his work. “These really opened my mindset on how to deal with people, and I used design thinking tools when I conducted the company’s strategy review meeting. We do not want to remain stagnant in the market and wish to reposition our business to create sustained value for our clients and stakeholders. The design thinking methodology really allowed my team to come up with some interesting ideas and unique perspectives.”

Mr. Triggs said that the main lesson he gained from Leadership and Management was understanding how to empower others. “I offload a lot of the regular work that I used to do,” he says, “and allow my team to make decisions. This requires a leader to place their trust in those under them, while remaining in communication to help give validation to their solutions.” 

With the end in sight for his MBA journey, Mr. Triggs reflects on the past two years, stating that the educational experience at RMIT ‘far exceeded’ his expectations. In terms of the lecturers, he states that “when they introduce themselves, you can really see how experienced and qualified they are.  I have appreciated all their different types teaching and learning styles and feel as though I've taken something away from each.”

Mr. Triggs confides that through his time taking the MBA at RMIT, he has learned how to listen more and take on board what his colleagues, clients and team members have to say. Importantly, he states that he “feels more confident in doing business in general, whether that is talking to clients, or presenting business strategies to senior level executives; I have the tools to express myself with assurance”.

Share

Related News

a business person in a navy suit holding imaginary blue figurines of business people in their hands on a blue background with blurry bubbles

Authentic leadership: nurturing the growth and passion of others

Starting a Logisitics career in China to General Manager at Circle Logistics Vietnam - Aaron Ma pursued an MBA to enhance his skills in finance, leadership, and management. Learn how his education at RMIT has transformed his approach to leadership and personal growth.

handshake-1200x800.jpg

How becoming a cultural manager changes your career outlook

In today's globalised world, cross-cultural management is a crucial skill. Over an intensive 4-day period, students engage in case studies, role-playing, and workshops, transforming into adept cross-cultural managers. Discover Dr. Ribeiro's unique approach and insights into international business challenges.

Dr Nuno F. Ribeiro, RMIT Vietnam, spoke at the event.

A lifelong look at culture: Dr Nuno Ribeiro’s inspiring journey to RMIT

Dr. Nuno Ribeiro's journey from Portugal to Vietnam highlights his passion for culture and tourism. Discover how his fascination with cultural dynamics and problem-solving shapes his teaching and research and learn about his contributions to Vietnamese tourism!

hung-phan.jpg

A quantitative analyst turned AI professional

Discover how Phan Quoc Hung transitioned from economics and finance to becoming an AI professional at RMIT – a journey highlighted by the transformative power of determination, passion, and the desire to provide real solutions to global problems using technology.

Back to postgraduate news