
Rebecca King – Director, Project Implementation – NEOM Operations, Saudi Arabia
Rebecca has followed a unique personal career path to her current position, working in a senior role on one of the region’s (and world’s…) most iconic real estate development construction projects. She has a deep experience of engineering project work and is highly qualified professional in engineering and in leadership. The MBA provided the opportunity to explore business beyond the technical aspects and also for personal and professional development. Her MBA experience also had notable features – earning not only a Distinction but also the Best Student Award for achieving the highest individual mark. Rebecca also gave the graduation address - representing the graduating class at the Middle East graduation celebration - where she spoke eloquently and openly about overcoming self-doubts to complete the programme successfully.
Was the MBA intended to help equip /transition you into your current role?
At that stage of my career, I was transitioning into more strategic roles, and I believed an MBA would deepen my knowledge and broaden my perspective. However, my decision to pursue an MBA was also influenced by my circumstances at the time. Living in a remote location, I anticipated having significant free time and fewer distractions, which made it the perfect opportunity to take on a personal challenge and fully dedicate myself to this learning experience.
What did you want to gain from the MBA – what did you think was missing from your profile, knowledge or skillset?
Throughout my career in construction, my roles have been predominantly technical. Pursuing an MBA allowed me to expand my skill set by delving into areas like finance, strategy, and marketing. As I progressed in my career, I began working more frequently with diverse, multidisciplinary teams. The knowledge I gained from the MBA has significantly enhanced my ability to understand and contribute effectively in scenarios that demand these broader skill sets.
Did you achieve your learning and development aims?
Absolutely—and I exceeded those expectations. My goal was to become a more well-rounded individual, but the experience went far beyond that. I found myself deeply immersed in areas I hadn’t previously understood, gaining a newfound appreciation for how the different aspects of the MBA are interconnected. Each discipline informs and enhances the understanding of the others, creating a cohesive framework. What were once isolated pieces of knowledge came together, enabling me to critically analyse situations from a holistic perspective.
You already had substantial work experience and a range of professional qualifications – what did the MBA add to this?
It brought everything together, giving me a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate. I realised that organisations don’t function in isolated silos; instead, every department and function acts as a cog in a larger machine, working together to drive the entire organisation forward.
How did you first connect with UoM and why did you choose the Manchester?
My primary inspiration came from a colleague in Dubai who had completed the Global MBA. His impact in the workplace was notable, serving as an inspiration to many, including myself. When he recommended Manchester’s programme, it resonated deeply. Being a proud Mancunian, it felt like everything had aligned perfectly, making the decision an easy one.
What specifically attracted you to the Manchester MBA?
The Manchester Method, with its emphasis on collaborative group work, was a significant draw for me. It felt like the most authentic approach to learning, mirroring the way the professional world operates. While it was challenging at times, in hindsight, I fully appreciate the immense value of this learning style. Working with diverse groups of people from various backgrounds and industries not only enriched the experience but also fostered personal and professional growth in ways I hadn’t anticipated.
What were the highlights of the MBA experience?
Every lecturer was truly outstanding, delivering an exceptional learning experience with unique teaching styles and ongoing support. I particularly enjoyed the Operations and Marketing module, a distinctive feature of Manchester’s MBA programme. Unlike many other programmes that treat these subjects as separate modules, Manchester’s integration of these topics revealed how decisions in one area of a business can significantly impact another. The workshop for this module was not only insightful but also incredibly engaging and enjoyable.
Was the transition back into the ‘classroom’ challenging, while in a demanding role?
It wasn’t particularly challenging for me, as I’ve always prioritised ongoing professional development throughout my career. I’ve consistently pursued courses and learning opportunities, so dedicating time outside the typical 9-to-5 routine felt natural. Being a morning person also worked to my advantage—I genuinely enjoyed starting my day early, diving into MBA work over a cup of coffee.
Did you have any doubts about your ability to complete the MBA?
I absolutely did. Like many others, I’ve experienced imposter syndrome, and at the start of the course, I was genuinely worried that I might be out of my depth. However, I quickly learned that with consistent effort and by making the most of the resources available, there’s no reason why anyone can’t achieve their goals. It was a valuable lesson in trusting the process and believing in my own abilities.
Did your cohort peers make a difference to your MBA experience?
The cohort was pivotal to my MBA experience. In the Executive MBA programme, working together as a closed cohort meant we got to know each other deeply and had the chance to collaborate with everyone in small group settings. We quickly formed strong friendships, and the shared experiences and camaraderie became a cornerstone of our journey. During challenging times, we supported and motivated one another, pushing each other to keep going. The learning we gained from each other's diverse perspectives was invaluable, and we forged friendships that will last a lifetime.
Did you visit the Manchester campus or other Centres during your programme?
As a cohort, we travelled together for each MBA workshop, visiting Manchester twice as well as the Dubai branch and Singapore centre. It was inspiring to see how the University represents and supports its students globally. During each workshop, the University organised events and activities that allowed us to immerse ourselves in the local culture, enriching the experience and helping to create a deeper connection with each other.
Did you face any particular challenges?
Like many MBA students, we faced the challenge of balancing the programme with substantial family and work commitments. It required a lot of dedication to stay on track and meet deadlines, even when life inevitably threw obstacles our way. Thankfully, the support of our cohort and the encouragement of our loved ones made it possible to persevere and succeed.
Were you able to use any of your new learning from the MBA in your role?
The framework I find myself referencing most often is the Reflective Executive Decision-Making Framework (PRISM), developed by Dr. Mark Winter. It’s invaluable in my day-to-day work, where I frequently encounter challenges that require me to pause, reflect, and thoroughly assess a situation before deciding on a course of action. Additionally, the insights I gained during the Strategy workshops have proven indispensable as I transition into more senior roles, enabling me to navigate complex situations and decisions with greater confidence and clarity.
Are you a lifelong learner and do you have any plans to continue your studying?
I have a genuine passion for learning and have consistently prioritised courses and professional development throughout my career. Staying current in the fast-evolving business landscape is something I value deeply. I’m confident that I’ll pursue further studies in the future, though I think I’ve earned a little break for now!
What was your reaction to the Best Student of the Year award?
This was an incredible surprise, and I’m immensely proud of this achievement. Many of us in the cohort exceeded our own expectations, which is a testament to the exceptional teaching at The University of Manchester. The lecturers and staff continually pushed us to uncover potential we didn’t realise we had. I certainly felt this throughout the programme and know I couldn’t have achieved Student of the Year without their support and guidance.
How did you approach your speech at the graduation celebration?
I was nervous about giving a speech but I let my words come straight from the heart. Imposter syndrome and self-doubt are challenges many of us face but it’s important to remind ourselves that we’re all human, doing our best to navigate life’s journey. It was incredibly rewarding to receive such positive feedback from those who listened—knowing my message resonated with so many made the experience even more meaningful.
Do you believe you are a role model for women in your profession and others?
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have several strong female role models. Most recently, in Dubai, I reported to Afraa, our team director, who exemplified the value and strength of women in leadership. She set an inspiring example, and I hope to carry that momentum forward by setting an example for others on similar journeys. It’s also important to acknowledge the male role models who are increasingly recognising and championing the importance of gender equality. Many men today actively create inclusive environments where individuals of all genders can thrive both personally and professionally. Their efforts are equally inspiring and play a vital role in fostering industry progress and growth.
What would you like to add?
The entire team at The University of Manchester has been exceptional. Their unwavering support and dedication have been instrumental in helping us reach our full potential. They consistently go above and beyond to ensure we have everything we need to succeed. A heartfelt ‘thank you’ to the entire team for making it all possible!