When she embarked on the HEC TRIUM EMBA program, Marie Barter was Managing Director of Accommodation Services with UNITE, a UK group that constructs and manages student rental accommodation. When she completes her studies, Ms. Barter will move to Sydney to lead a new company that is bringing the same kinds of service to a new market: Australia and New Zealand.

Why did you opt for the TRIUM EMBA?
I was attracted by the international focus of the program. My career has always centered on the UK but I felt the time had come to spread my wings. I knew I needed to learn more about the working culture in other countries and build up a network of international contacts. I also needed new skills that would allow me to rise to the challenges involved in leading a company. In short, I needed a broader perspective on management and TRIUM fitted the bill.

Has the program met your expectations?
Absolutely. Over 30 different countries were represented in my year, our fields of activity ranged from pharmaceuticals to African NGOs and the program actively encouraged geographical, gender and business diversity. In addition to a comprehensive program of formal study, TRIUM offers fantastic opportunities to learn through experience and from other participants. We went to London, New York, Shanghai and Mumbai, gaining first-hand experience of places where we are likely to be doing business in the future.

How has TRIUM influenced the way you think about management?
At the end of March, I will be moving to Sydney as CEO of a start-up, NEST. I'm not sure that I would be making such a move without TRIUM. The course has given me a broader range of skills and a new set of business reflexes. I feel much more confident in my ability to make sound decisions that take account of all relevant financial, strategic, operational and ethical factors.

Do you have any advice for other executives considering the TRIUM EMBA?
Even though the workload is well spread out, this is a demanding program: be honest with yourself and your family about what to expect. Deciding to do an EMBA is a major life decision. You can spend a lot of time thinking about it but at some point you really do just have to jump in and do it.