EMBA Bocconi opinion

Question

Hi there,

I am about to start an 18-month Executive MBA at Bocconi University and currently work in corporate finance valuation as manager (3 years of experience) and I had 3 years as entrepeneur cofounding an aparthotel. I would appreciate your insights on whether this EMBA at Bocconi would add value in pursuing opportunities at investment banking firms or M&A big 4 in the Middle East, especially Dubai. Additionally, I’d love to understand which roles I could realistically aspire to with this background.

Thank you in advance for your time and guidance.

Answer 1

Hey there,

For IB or Big 4 M&A, expect to aim for Associate roles, maybe Senior Associate depending on the firm. The EMBA helps with credibility and networking, but direct deal experience is key. If you can leverage your current role for more transactional exposure, even better.

Dubai’s market is growing fast and they love international talent with diverse backgrounds. Your mix of finance + business ownership should position you well, especially if you build the right connections.

Let me know if you want to chat more!

Answer 2

Hello,

An EMBA from Bocconi will enhance your profile for roles in investment banking or M&A in Dubai. Bocconi has a strong reputation, and the international exposure and network from the program will be valuable in the Middle East, particularly in finance hubs like Dubai. The EMBA will help you refine your leadership, strategic thinking, and financial modeling skills, all of which are crucial for mid-to-senior-level positions in these fields.

With your background in corporate finance valuation and entrepreneurship, you can realistically aim for roles such as Investment Banking Associate/VP, M&A Senior Associate in a Big 4 firm, or even roles in private equity. Your entrepreneurial experience, combined with the EMBA, makes you an attractive candidate for these positions, especially in advisory and strategy-focused roles. Additionally, focusing on networking in Dubai and understanding the local business culture will be key to leveraging your new qualifications effectively in the region.

Answer 3

Hi, an 18-month Executive MBA from SDA Bocconi, a top-ranked European business school, will significantly boost your profile for investment banking (IB) and Big 4 M&A roles in Dubai, given its strong reputation and focus on finance and leadership. Your three years as a corporate finance valuation manager, combined with entrepreneurial experience cofounding an aparthotel, already make you a strong candidate, and the EMBA will enhance your strategic and managerial skills, network, and global perspective—key for Dubai’s competitive financial hub. The program’s rigorous curriculum, including finance-focused modules and access to Bocconi’s alumni network, aligns well with IB firms like Goldman Sachs or J.P. Morgan and Big 4 M&A teams (e.g., Deloitte, PwC), where Dubai’s market values expertise in valuation and deal-making. You could realistically aspire to roles like Associate in IB (given your experience) or Senior Consultant/Manager in Big 4 M&A advisory, focusing on deal structuring or valuation. To maximize your chances, leverage Bocconi’s career services and network with Middle East alumni during the program. Want help preparing for these roles?