Don't tell them what to write. That would be obvious, and would suggest your integrity was limited.

Why do you want an MBA? Any idea of what your GMAT will be?

Hi Duncan,

Id be a bit more creative than just asking for a contrived reference....but i do see your point! Thanks.

Personally I want to do an MBA to allow me more of a strategic leverage on regulatory strategies. I must admit I am dubious of the value it would provide me as i have a very good reputation in the industry i guess it would help me to enhance it further. As for GMAT, no idea! Alas that is the issue, from a academic background I?ve done well but from a professional one I?ve done exceptional, therefore a GMAT would never be a gauge as to my ability therefore I?ve decided to go to a school where this is not required. Duncan here?s a question for you, in terms of an MBA would it be more ?cost-effective? do one at a lesser uni, for instance the surrey MBA has a very flexible programme and since I don?t need an MBA to open doors, just the focus on certain modules would be enough to benefit me. I?m thinking outside the box here but id value your opinion.

Hi Fernando. First off, really do look at the methods for calculating Net Present Value. The costs of MBAs vary more or less in line with their value. Look at the average salaries from the top programmes (http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings/global-mba-rankings-2011) If your salary is already there, the look at executive programmes (http://rankings.ft.com/businessschoolrankings/emba-rankings-2010). These are far in excess of what a Surrey MBA will do. A second or third rate MBA would be a false economy..

Second, do you intend to finish your career in regulatory affairs? If so, I would recommend an alumni-status general management programme (not necessarily an MBA) with a strong emphasis on interpersonal skills and soft skills, like LBS's ADP or the Advanced Management Programme at Ashridge. If not, then look for a Executive MBA programme that is extensive rather than intensive: one which gives you a relatively high volume of case studies, classroom time and assignments. I would recommend LBS (again), Cass, IMD and Cranfield.

Third, do not underestimate the transformative experience of an MBA. At a top MBA, all the students coming in have great reputations and at at the top of their game, often in senior functional roles. They still experience, on average 50%, salary growth.

Hi Duncan,
great reply, i cannot disagree with your advice. In fact i am discussing entry with Ashridge as we speak. Especially as i have secured company sponsorship, money and time is not an option now. It could be they advise on a simular alternative course.In addition I will look at the others you recommend as a back-up.

Another question Duncan. i am on a six figure salary now, but i am only 31 and want to maximise my potential. i could potentially go alone and be a paper millioniare in about 2 years...would YOU follow this route (i can always do it in 2 years) or would YOU take the longer more structured route i.e. MBA first ? i'll be interested to hear your opinion on this.

I would take a part-time MBA, and do both at the same time ;-)

Also look at the MSc in management at Ashridge. That's perhaps a more flexible route although the EMBA is a better experience.

Thank you Duncan, an asset to this forum.