Jabulani Nkomo

Profile

Why did you choose to study online with Edinburgh Business School?

I chose Edinburgh Business School (EBS) because of its reputation, which has a mark of quality unparalleled by a few global schools worldwide and its association with recognisable and respected top employers. I was drawn to EBS specifically by its balanced approach to working professionals and the emphasis on practical oriented teaching approach which resonated with the changing dynamics in the global financial services sector and specifically insurance, which is my area of focus fuel/gas and automotive sectors in South Africa. The modules for the MBA Finance, Leadership, Marketing, People, Work & Organisations, Developing and Executing Strategy, and Developing successful projects were pivotal in positioning my company’s three-year best growth and underwriting profits for the years 2023/2025 and 2025 within our stable, and I couldn't be happier as EBS has given me the skills to drive this upward profitable growth trajectory.

Why did you choose to complete your chosen programme at this stage of your life and career?

I have spent the past few years before COVID-19 battling with business tools to grow as a start-up, but since enrolling with EBS all this changed as I started applying my theory from the course directly into my business and my finance skills have improved significantly, turning the company performance into something admired by our peers within the industry. We have a 2030 strategy, and applying the tools learnt has made it all easy for me and my team.

What does this achievement mean to you now?

This achievement signifies a powerful globally recognisable validation of my strategic leadership, financial prowess, and management skills with a significant career acceleration capped with an international network as an alumnus of this prestigious institution. It gets me respect amongst my peers and confidence to engage with fellow professionals on an equal footing.

How has your programme impacted your career and personal life so far?

Firstly, people take you seriously when you talk, knowing you have this prestigious qualification. Secondly, it has assisted how I handle complex business matters and decision-making is easier knowing that I have the right tools at my disposal. It has accelerated my leadership transition and has provided access to a strong global network with the flexibility to balance work and family as I can delegate and empower my staff more now.

Overall, how has your experience been with Heriot-Watt?

Heriot-Watt has been an amazing experience for me as it has given me the confidence to dream even higher. The professionalism of staff when I first came for the MBA programme in 2024 was unmatched and the programme we had in May 2024 was worth every penny and I would advise that you continue exposing the talent that's coming from the African continent and reach out more to those marginalised communities because experiences like the Heriot-Watt MBA can continue changing this polarised world for the better. Subsidising the cost of earning has made it easier for us on this side of the world, so continue the good work and reaching out all corners of the world, empowering the world with education will reduce poverty and suffering that we see around the world.

How have you found the learning materials?

Learning materials and videos were excellently put together, honestly I can't fault any of that as it allowed me to understand the content without lecturer intervention.

What was your favourite course and why?

Developing and Executing Strategy was a game-changer for me as it brought all elements of the nine modules into focus, and it certainly stretched my thinking to the limit.