In Australia, the number of individuals pursuing an MBA is significant, though exact percentages are not widely published. Australian MBA programs are highly regarded both domestically and internationally, attracting a diverse array of students, including international candidates.

As a Gen Xer I am about to embark on an MBA in my early 50’s. This is not so widely common as most embark on an MBA in their early 40’s. So why now? Looking for a new challenge, aiming to stay competitive, preparing to transition into consulting, entrepreneurship or academia is why most do it now.

Australia offers a compelling environment for MBA studies due to its high-quality education system, vibrant cities, and strong global reputation of its business schools. In my early 30’s I had the incredible opportunity to study with Harvard in Australia and IMD Business School in Switzerland. These were very fortunate experiences that propelled my career, gave me intense learnings in short periods of time and enabled me to appreciate my strengths in a pivotal time both economically and personally in my career. We are talking about the early 2000’s.

Yes our world has changed since then and the timing is right for me now. I have held Executive roles in global organisations and launched my own business nearly 4 years ago and the contrast of working in a multi-national to being a team of 2 in the early days couldn’t be more varied. I work today in an Executive Search environment and the landscape of senior executives trying to pivot their careers has got increasingly more competitive.

So will an MBA bring about a competitive edge? The sentiment among Gen X individuals studying for an MBA is generally positive and is obviously based on personal and professional circumstances. 

Generally the sentiment supports this lucky list of 7 -

1. Career Advancement: Many Gen X professionals view an MBA as a pathway to advancing their careers, especially if they are looking to transition into higher management roles or pivot to a different industry. 

2. Skill Enhancement: For those in their early 50s, acquiring new skills and knowledge is a significant motivator. An MBA program provides a structured way to gain advanced business acumen, leadership skills, and a broader understanding of the corporate world.

3. Networking: The networking opportunities provided by MBA programs are highly valued. Gen X students often appreciate the chance to connect with peers, professors, and industry leaders, which can be beneficial for professional growth and new business ventures.

4. Work-Life Balance: Balancing work, study, and personal life can be challenging for Gen X students. Many have significant responsibilities at work and home, and adding an MBA program into the mix requires careful time management and support from family and employers.

5. Digital Adaptability: While some Gen X individuals might feel less comfortable with newer technologies compared to younger generations, many see the MBA as a chance to stay current with the latest business technologies and trends.

6. Financial Considerations: The cost of an MBA program is a significant factor. For Gen X students, the financial investment is weighed against potential career benefits. Many are willing to invest in an MBA if they believe it will lead to substantial long-term gains.

7. Fulfillment and Personal Growth: Beyond career and financial benefits, some Gen X students pursue an MBA for personal fulfillment and intellectual growth. The challenge and achievement of completing an advanced degree can be highly rewarding on a personal level.

For me, balancing the demands of running an agile business in the HR Outsourcing and Recruitment Sector with the rigours of studying for an MBA will bring about new challenges that I seem to revel in. They say if you want to get something done well, give it to a busy person. 

I am starting with Entrepreneurship and Innovation which are not only enablers of global economic and social transformation, but the drivers of employment creation and prosperity, which seems perfect to me for where I am at in my career right now! Bring it on, I am excited about what this new opportunity will bring.

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