MBA profile: Switch from manager to data scientist

Question

Hi,
I am in a dilemma with respect to my MBA applications.
To give you a brief summary, I have been working for a data-driven leading analytics company for 4 years now. In my journey, I have worked on interesting analytical problems, strategic initiatives and helped business save x million dollars. Starting as a data scientist for a service based company, I grew as a manager and am currently managing a team of 20+ data scientists. But i feel this rapid growth from analyst to manager in a span of 4 years has taken me away from analytics, and therefore I am planning to switch to a data scientist role for an in-house analytics team of a large scale business company. I will be helping the business set up its analytical division and drive decisions.
I need perspective from folks as to how will this decision impact my MBA profile? Will it show negative growth? Need some advice.

99Colleges · Answer

Hi Advait08,

I don’t think this move shows negative trajectory. Setting up a division is a unique, important experience where one can learn the nuts & bolts. But remember, post-MBA jobs would entail taking up leadership positions where your responsibilities would be more managerial and less technical.

Advaintage · Answer

Thanks Anil, this helps.
Yes, I know post MBA roles would be managerial, and that is where I would like to be to be honest. It is just that my growth is stunted in the org, and i would like to learn a lot more before I don the managerial hat so that I can create a strong base before that. Hope this makes sense.

jeffreyadcom · Answer

Switching from a services company to a in-house analytics team! Bravo! Great Move for direct assessment of impact of your work. Also, I would say less clutter and more continuity. Congrats.

In terms of MBA, I see this as a logical progression and wouldn't hamper your application in any way. Go ahead, but spend atleast 2 years before you can think of B-School.

You shunned managerial post to revert to the work that you love. Now I don't see the reason why you want an MBA to become a manager again. Frankly, I don't think you'd an MBA to manage a Data Analytics team.

May be a PhD in Business Analytics will deepen your expertise and enhance your reputation at work. Think about it. My 2 cents.

Mo2men · Answer

I believe you decision in wise and consistent with your career track. With real compelling essays to show connection between your past and, short and long term goals, your profile will be attractive to many business schools. I agree about above advice, you may also consider Phd in analytics.

Advaintage · Answer

Thank you guys. This definitely helps me believe in my decision.
Regarding doing an MBA/PhD, I will let time take that call. As of now, all I know is I want to be as close to business as I can be, and data analytics is an excellent means to drive business decisions. Hence, inclining towards MBA.

MBAbot · Answer

Automated notice from GMAT Club MBAbot: 

A member just gave Kudos to this thread, showing it’s still useful. I’ve bumped it to the top so more people can benefit. Feel free to add your own questions or solutions.

 This post was generated automatically.

MBA profile: Switch from manager to data scientist

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards