Khaled Salah
Director of Sales and commercial excellence, Schneider Electric
Distance Learning MBA (2020-24)

Tell us a bit about yourself
I am originally Egyptian, I have lived in the UK for four years in Leeds, and I am currently living in Paris. I have engineering background from Egypt, where I joined Schneider Electric in the procurement team, followed by managing the Europe procurement strategy in effectiveness. Recently, I have moved to a commercial organisation within the industrial automation business unit to run the sales excellence.

I was also a professional volleyball player back in Egypt for 20 years. I like to have a positive impact on the environment, not only in terms of business results, but more with respect to people and the planet we live on. Nothing is more motivating to me than seeing potential in someone and helping them realise that potential.

What first attracted you to Warwick Business School?
It was fundamental to enrich my business acumen, especially with the technical background I have. Warwick Business School is the prestigious business school which can equip me with the right educational level.

Why did you ultimately choose Warwick Business School for your MBA?
I was very clear in my choice; I wanted the best in the world.

What elements of the programme do you value the most and why?
The modules are very well structured and explained with the right level of detail, the cohort is diverse and international with outstanding cognitive diversity.

What is it like studying for an MBA?
Positively challenging, it widens your horizon and encourages you to look from different perspectives and consider different possibilities.

Has the Leadership module had an impact on your leadership style?
The Leadership module was one of my favourite modules, it offers numbers of theory and frameworks which you can utilize and apply immediately in your daily work as a leader, interestingly, I have been able to adapt my leadership style and move all along the spectrum of management.

Can you tell us about your career plans? 
I am planning to strengthen my commercial experience more and then complementing it with the strategic piece by driving the strategy of a commercial organisation.

Do you have any advice for anyone currently thinking about studying for an MBA?
I would strongly recommend the MBA program, specially if you are willing to mix the academic practice with working experience, or if you are willing to change career path. The modules will give you on hand experience of real case studies from the market with the academic debate around them, which will elevate your business acumen.