Stephanie Gutnik

Online Masters in Business Administration (MBA), 2016

What made you choose to study at Heriot-Watt?
Given the global nature of my career, I selected Heriot-Watt to obtain an international perspective in my MBA syllabus. As I was often in the UK for work while completing my MBA, studying at a Scottish institution was the perfect way to ground my practical business experience gained abroad with academic principles.

Why did you choose to study an online MBA?
I was quite the road warrior during my MBA years, travelling across the world for business meetings and conferences. As such, being consistently present in a classroom was out of the question. Studying on my own schedule gave me much needed flexibility and sure passed the time on long-haul flights! It was equally as convenient to write exams in my city of residence. 

What's your favourite or most memorable memory of your time as a Heriot-Watt student?
I drew specific concepts from the coursework that helped me view everything from organisational structure to financial decisions in an inquisitive and learned manner. Applying these ideas to business cases and conference presentations was a gratifying way for me to demonstrate my new knowledge in real time.

How would you summarise your time studying an online MBA with the Edinburgh Business School?
Organised. Balancing work, business travel, school and a personal life can be daunting. The more I have on my plate, however, the more efficient my time management becomes. I never felt overwhelmed during my MBA, as I was able to work toward set exam dates and knew I had the option to postpone a sitting if need be.

Tell us about your career since graduating from Heriot-Watt.
Upon graduating, I moved from Montreal to New York to open an office – and stayed for four years. Manhattan offers a brilliant environment in which to build a career in advertising and technology. I have been recruited twice to fill newly created roles. I was Vice President, Digital Strategy and Programmatic Sales at OUTFRONT Media and am currently the Global Head of Digital Out of Home at Yahoo. I sit on the board of directors for the Digital Signage Federation and Canadian Association of New York, the Digital Signage Experience Advisory Board and am the co-chair of the OAAA Innovations Committee.

How has your Heriot-Watt University education contributed to your success?
While the technology industry has played a major role in proving just how influential young leaders can be (Mark Zuckerberg, Evan Spiegel and Whitney Wolfe Herd just to name three), there often remains a certain opinion of how 'experience' – or age, should be tied to specific job titles and functions. As I will age slower than my ambition to climb the ladder, an MBA has helped to quicken my pace at effectively navigating through business requirements and relationships. 

How has your online MBA benefited you personally?
I'm an academic at heart. I have always adored and excelled at school, so completing a MBA was a joy as opposed to a struggle. I distinctly remember answering questions for a write-up the last time I was graciously featured by Edinburgh Business School – sitting in the Lufthansa Lounge at Frankfurt Airport on my way home from a work trip. I mentioned that a doctorate was something I had my eye on for the future, with a true desire to take my academic experience to its upmost potential. I can proudly say I am now a doctoral candidate at Edinburgh Business School, currently preparing for my viva. The experience has been incredible. I am studying a subject I love and am working with a highly astute and kind supervisor.

What advice do you have for current students?
A MBA is such a valuable degree because students have spent time working in the business field and are pursuing a MBA to strengthen their commitment to this career path. As such, grasp the coursework with enthusiasm and apply it to your work and/or reality as soon as possible. The benefits commence before the degree is awarded.

What is your lasting impression of Heriot-Watt University?
A modern, dedicated institution. I am grateful to have found a university that has fit my schedule and needs so well.

What are your aspirations for the future?
For your career?
I look forward to continuing to grow my track record as someone who can think big picture and make it happen. I am passionate about the industry I work in, have assisted in driving it to where it is today and have no desire to slow down. I also am eager to earn my doctorate and begin sharing my knowledge through part-time lecturing positions.
For your local and wider community?
Being involved with associations that serve causes I care about has long been something that fulfils me. I aspire to retain my board and committee positions, and I am always available to share my experiences and insights with students and young professionals who are looking for direction. I am lucky to have encountered wonderful mentors and friends over the years and hope to assist others in this same way.