By: Chandara Samban
As Cambodia’s economy continues to grow and globalization accelerates, the business landscape is rapidly evolving. With these changes, there is an increasing demand for highly skilled professionals with a deep understanding of business management, industry dynamics, and enterprise operations. In response to this need, advanced business education, particularly a Master of Business Administration (MBA), is becoming increasingly popular among young professionals in Cambodia and beyond.
Paragon International University, a leading institution in Cambodia, is committed to equipping students with advanced professional skills in business management. Offering bachelor’s, master’s, and recently, a doctorate in this field, ParagonIU aims to develop a new generation of business leaders.
In this article, 3 MBA students at ParagonIU, Ms. Prak Sonita from HEINEKEN, Mr. Kazato Saeki from FIDR and Ms. Mann Rachana from ABA share their experiences, career growth, and insights into how their studies have shaped their professional journeys. They highlight how the program has provided them with essential skills, expanded their networks, and prepared them for leadership roles in the business world.
Ms. Prak Sonita: From Insights to Impact at HEINEKEN
Ms. Prak Sonita, 32, currently serves as an Insights and Project Manager at HEINEKEN, one of the world’s leading brewers. As a senior MBA student at ParagonIU, she believes an MBA is a crucial asset in today’s competitive job market, especially in Cambodia, where economic growth and foreign investment are creating new opportunities for businesses and professionals alike.
“I chose to pursue an MBA to enhance my professional capabilities, complement my decade-long work experience, and achieve my long-term career aspirations. The program has allowed me to integrate theoretical knowledge with my daily work in advertising, market analysis, strategic planning, and supply chain management,” she explained.
Ms. Sonita emphasizes that an MBA provides a comprehensive understanding of business operations, covering key areas such as accounting, finance, marketing, supply chain management, operations, project management, and corporate social responsibility. “Even if we are not specialists in every area, as managers, we need a fundamental understanding of all these aspects,” she added.
For those aspiring to become senior managers or executives, she strongly recommends pursuing an MBA. “If you want to be a CEO or a senior leader, consider an MBA. But make sure you are passionate about it and committed to improving your skills and career prospects.”
Her decision to study at ParagonIU was influenced by the university’s strong academic reputation, experienced faculty, and globally competitive curriculum. Additionally, the flexible online learning options allowed her to continue working while advancing her education without the need to study abroad.
Mr. Kazato Saeki: Integrating Leadership and Management in the Non-Profit Sector
Mr. Kazato Saeki, a Japanese national in his 40s, is the Country Representative for the Foundation for International Development/Relief (FIDR), a Japanese NGO working in Cambodia’s education sector. As a final-year MBA student at ParagonIU, he reflects on how the program has helped him grow both personally and professionally.
“The MBA has given me a broader understanding of management at both macro and micro levels, especially in team leadership and strategic decision-making. While working in the education sector, I realized the importance of applying business principles to enhance organizational efficiency and impact,” he shared.
Mr. Kazato highlights that the MBA program not only strengthened his knowledge of business and entrepreneurship but also helped him analyze economic and social challenges that affect industries and communities. “The combination of theoretical learning and practical application has equipped me with problem-solving skills essential for tackling future challenges.”
When asked why he pursued an MBA, he said, “As a country representative, I am expected to lead and manage effectively. My interest in leadership and management led me to business studies, even while balancing a busy work schedule. An MBA teaches flexibility, which is valuable in both the corporate and non-profit sectors.”
Studying at ParagonIU has been a rewarding experience for him, with access to highly qualified professors and a diverse, talented student body. He encourages professionals, regardless of age, to invest in continuous learning, as education has no limits.
Ms. Mann Rachana: Elevating Career Prospects in Banking and Finance
Ms. Mann Rachana, a Senior Relationship Manager in Corporate & Institutional Banking at the National Bank of Canada Group (ABA Bank), is a second-year MBA student at ParagonIU. She strongly believes that an MBA is instrumental in advancing her career and positioning herself as a leader in the financial sector.
“The MBA program has helped me develop strategic planning, critical thinking, human resource management, and economic analysis skills. These competencies are essential for managing businesses and leading organizations effectively,” she stated.
Balancing a demanding career with academic pursuits is challenging, but Ms. Rachana has successfully managed her time to excel in both. “The flexible curriculum at ParagonIU is ideal for working professionals like me. Despite my busy schedule, I can maintain high academic performance while fulfilling my professional responsibilities.”
She emphasizes that the MBA coursework, which includes case studies and practical applications, has had a direct impact on her daily work. “I apply what I learn in class to my role at ABA Bank, particularly in strategic leadership, financial analysis, human resource management, and marketing. The real-world insights gained from the program have significantly enhanced my performance at work.”
Ms. Rachana encourages professionals looking to advance their careers to consider ParagonIU’s MBA program. “Graduates from ParagonIU are highly qualified and work in leading organizations at the national and regional levels. With its international standards and strong reputation, ParagonIU is an excellent choice for those looking to strengthen their business acumen and achieve their career goals.”
Why Choose ParagonIU’s MBA Program?
Paragon International University’s MBA program is designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills to excel in various industries, whether in the private sector, non-profit organizations, or entrepreneurship. With a globally competitive curriculum, experienced faculty, and flexible learning options, ParagonIU offers a high-quality education tailored to the needs of working professionals.
By joining the MBA program, students gain:
- A comprehensive understanding of business management and leadership
- Practical knowledge applicable to real-world challenges
- Networking opportunities with industry professionals and peers
- The ability to advance their careers and achieve leadership positions
If you are looking to enhance your career prospects, expand your business knowledge, and develop leadership skills, Paragon International University’s MBA program is the right choice for you.
Start your journey toward business leadership today! Enroll in Paragon International University’s MBA program and take your career to the next level