Executive Partners
At William and Mary, one of the most important resources available to you is our Executive Partners network. This volunteer group of over 100 active and retired senior business executives, from over 20 different industries, share their experiences and guidance with you as frequently as you seek it out.
The Executive Partners (EPs) are integrated into the William and Mary MBA program in several formal and informal ways. Your first exposure to our EPs occurs during orientation, when you meet the Executive Partner who will be your personal coach in our Leadership Advantage Program. Your coach will work with you throughout your MBA experience, and often well beyond it, to help you develop the skills that will matter most throughout your career. You will examine your leadership style and strengthen your leadership skills through both in-class and out-of-class coaching interactions.
Your coach will also help to connect you with other EPs who may provide more direct insight into your particular career interests. Broadening your professional network by connecting to several of our Executive Partners is an excellent way to maximize your reach into the business world.
Executive Partners also participate in your MBA classroom experience, working with the faculty to demonstrate how business theory applies to business reality. EPs participate in the design and delivery of the Career Acceleration Modules, during the classes on campus as well as the trips to major companies. EPs also serve as your expert advisors during the 2nd year Field Consultancy projects, which add important, real-world experience to your education and résumé. Through these experience-based learning opportunities, Executive Partners help you connect your academic training in business with the real business world.
Executive Partners, working collaboratively with our MBA Career Services team, are readily available to discuss their own career experiences as a real-world perspective on various paths you may consider. EPs come from virtually all industries, from Heavy Industry to Consumer Packaged Goods, from Investment Banking to Human Resources, from Sales Management to Entrepreneurial Ventures or Consulting, and many more. Their insight is invaluable, particularly as they help you develop your "pitch" to prospective employers and conduct practice interviews.
