What Additional Skills Do Managers Need to Steer Their Businesses?

Navigating the Challenges of a Dynamic Environment

The powerful rise of pioneering technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, and Cloud Computing is reshaping the fundamental operations of businesses globally. McKinsey’s latest global survey in 2024 revealed that 65% of businesses have adopted AI in their operations. Meanwhile, Blockchain technology, with its ability to provide data transparency and security, is gradually being applied in the financial, real estate, and retail sectors. Cloud computing is also in the mix, becoming a crucial platform for businesses to optimize performance and agility in their operations.

However, this wave of technology brings not only opportunities but also significant challenges, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam amid intensifying competition.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has just released its updated report on the global economic outlook for 2025, pointing out the economy’s challenges. The report highlights risks to the global and regional outlook, including heightened trade tensions, tighter financial market conditions, and increased instability. Tariffs will also weigh on the global economy and dampen the region’s post-pandemic economic growth, including Vietnam.

Amid these mounting economic challenges, business leaders and managers need breakthrough perspectives on long-term strategic equations. This calls for a shift in leadership thinking, systematic investment, and enhancing the internal capacity of each enterprise.

Many experts argue that globalization is not just about market expansion but also a comprehensive test of each administrator’s leadership capabilities. Those who do not quickly acquire international knowledge and global thinking will likely fall behind in this race.

A “Roadmap” for Administrators

To adapt to the economy’s changes, experts suggest that successful leaders and managers in this new era must possess the necessary capabilities, applying skills, knowledge, and experience in contemporary business issues and risks with a global mindset.

In this context, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at the British University Vietnam (BUV) is attracting many students, including middle-level leaders and managers from various enterprises, thanks to its practicality and applicability to market demands.

BUV’s MBA program facilitates expanding professional networks and connections with experts from diverse fields.

The program emphasizes practical elements, regularly organizing workshops, forums, and seminars to keep students updated with the latest knowledge.

The distinctive feature of BUV’s MBA program is its core leadership competency-based approach. Instead of focusing on academic theory, the program aims to develop five critical qualities of modern administrators: strategic agility, organizational acumen, customer focus, results orientation, and career ambition. These capabilities are key to enabling managers to lead enterprises through turbulent times, not just maintaining stable operations.

Dr. Simon Kimber, Head of Postgraduate Studies at BUV, shared his insights on the teaching methodology: “The program is built upon the philosophy of ‘problem-based learning,’ where students engage with real-world business scenarios, propose solutions, engage in debates, and adjust strategies. This approach enhances not only critical thinking but also decision-making skills in a practical context.”

Additionally, with its part-time weekend format, the program accommodates working professionals who wish to pursue further education without interrupting their careers.

The program is accredited by the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and boasts a 100% internationally qualified faculty, with 60% holding doctoral degrees and possessing practical business experience.

One of the highlights of BUV’s MBA program is the development of soft skills and diplomatic etiquette, such as learning to drink and dine gracefully at important events.

Beyond imparting knowledge, BUV’s MBA program facilitates expanding professional networks. Through a multidisciplinary learning environment, themed seminars, one-on-one mentoring, and business connections, students can engage with industry leaders and experts and enhance their potential for collaboration, entrepreneurship, or new career opportunities.

Upon graduation, students will be equipped to manage and lead enterprises comprehensively, armed with financial, marketing, strategic, and risk management knowledge. Notably, they will possess analytical capabilities, systems thinking, and agility—essential qualities for effective leadership in the digital age.

Nguyen Bich Diep, from Clickable Impact Consulting Group, shared that the MBA program not only provided her with practical management knowledge but also developed the essential skills to become a true senior manager: from asking the right questions and analyzing problems to building focused solutions and leading a multinational team with a holistic market perspective.

“The MBA program at BUV also served as a bridge to expand my professional network, allowing me to connect and learn from potential partners,” she added.

Learn more about the Master of Business Administration program: https://www.buv.edu.vn/chuong-trinh-thac-si-quan-tri-kinh-doanh-mba/