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Question

I was recently offered a promotion and a move to the US with Sr. Manager title in product. I am a software engineer right now with 8 years under my belt.

I also admitted into INSEAD 23 BATCH.

I plan to not be in engineering role but definitely want to be in tech. 
I am very confused. Should I accept my promotion and forget about MBA(turning 33) or just go for MBA?

Any suggestions or insights are highly appreciated.

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myoldcheese · Answer

Hey!

Obviously salary/comp for the new title would help.

I was offered $180K total comp as a Sr. Manager at a start up in the US, but decided to go INSEAD as I have McKinsey experience and I’ll likely be switching back to consulting post-MBA.

Ultimately depends on your trajectory. I think I can reasonably expect to make partner in a big consulting firm within 6-8 years after INSEAD, so it makes sense for me given the cost of INSEAD, opportunity cost of lost income, and potential growth in my new role.

I will say 33 is the upper end of the age where an MBA makes sense.

Good luck! I hope I see you at INSEAD.

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usmanahsen · Answer

Hi,

I believe it will boil down to your long term ambition. If it is to stay in the same field and that you will side by side keep upskilling, then the designation/salary jump does help.

Regardless, considering the major experience, the age bracket and the fact that your MBA is going to give yo multiple more option too, MBA does really make sense if you are open to exploring what's in store. INSEAD MBA does have a a lot of brand value which you can cash in too.

Iamprithwish · Answer

Hi...I am faced with a similar situation too...Looking forward for the discussions on this topic.

MBAGuide · Answer

Hi  nshar  hope you are doing well

With things looking bright for you with either option, you must consider whether you want to work in the US in the short/mid-term or not (MBA or no MBA). If yes, then you could consider doing perhaps a 1 yr MBA in the US 1-2 years after taking up the new role. Another thing you could do is to have a candid conversation with your employer and discuss whether or not they would be happy to have you join in the US after you complete your MBA from INSEAD. An employer may not want to lose top talent and would try best to accommodate employee's needs (MBA in your case).

Best wishes

Admissionado · Answer

nshar :

It's also important to note that the MBA is a great opportunity to hedge should you want to change careers anytime after you graduate. Plus, there is the value of the network, the academic experience itself, and the experience of developing a deeper sense of self. Those are values to the degree that do not necessarily show up 
"on paper" but should be part of the consideration as you make this decision.

My vote would be to get the MBA given the branding and experience, but of course, there are other good opinions on this thread as well. Good luck and congrats either way!

bb · Answer

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