There’s more to Las Vegas than bright lights, casinos, and entertainment. While the city once relied on its glitzy reputation, it has successfully transitioned to a dynamic and diverse business hub. Las Vegas is now home to some of the most successful companies in the U.S, as well as UNLV Lee Business School, one of the region’s best business schools.
Set in Paradise, Nevada, close to the Las Vegas Strip, UNLV was founded in 1967. Today, it’s one of only 5% of business schools in the world with dual AACSB accreditation.
Marian Hristov, Chief Technology Officer of Vegas Technologies, was looking to gain a competitive advantage in business leadership. He was searching for a program that provided core business knowledge, a strong professional network, and flexibility. The UNLV Executive MBA Program fit the bill.
“I needed a program that would allow me to keep running my business, and the EMBA format made that possible,” he says. “At the same time, it was a great way for me to connect with local executives from different industries. That was a huge draw. It gave me both flexibility and access to a really strong professional network.” (00:28)
The UNLV Executive EMBA curriculum is designed to give aspiring entrepreneurs and executives the business expertise needed to succeed in a modern environment.
One of the most compelling aspects of the UNLV Executive MBA is its focus on leadership. Moving from a ‘doer’ to a ‘leader’ involves having a deeper understanding of the way business functions. For Marian, the program’s strategic approach gave him a different perspective.
“It really changed how I think about leadership,” he says. “Being a small business owner, before I had more of a ‘do everything myself’ kind of mindset. The program helped me understand that that’s not scalable. I became much more focused on delegating, empowering my team, building systems… the shift made a big difference in how the business operates today.” (00:55)
Modules such as Leadership and Team Effectiveness and Organizational Behavior equip candidates with the personal and professional skills needed to hone their own leadership style. The program blends theoretical knowledge and real-world experience to produce well-rounded leaders ready to make an immediate impact in their careers.
Marian built upon a crucial foundation of skills during the program. Three fundamental skills stood out. “Strategy, leadership, and financial decision making were probably the most [valuable].” (01:32)
These newfound abilities had a profound impact on his business. “After the first year of the EMBA, we saw about 23% growth. Then, over the next three consecutive years, we averaged around 70% year-over-year growth. That was a direct result of applying what I was learning.” (01:42)
MBA candidates like Marian often experience rapid career advancement and significant salary increases shortly after graduation. Data shows an average salary increase of 8% after graduation from an EMBA program.
In just 18 months, executives are exposed to a rigorous curriculum while continuing to work full-time. They often see a very quick ROI as a result. This is a huge competitive advantage for those looking to break into the fast-paced business environment in Vegas.
“It helped me become more effective in areas that really matter in Vegas… negotiating, structuring, better contracts,” says Marian. “Las Vegas is very fast-paced and relationship driven… being able to negotiate well and develop solid agreements has been a big advantage for me.” (02:30)
Networking also played a key role in elevating Marian’s career. “A lot of opportunities in Las Vegas come from relationships and networking,” he notes. “The EMBA gave me access to a network of professionals across industries.” (02:58)
These connections turned into real business opportunities for Marian, enhancing his understanding of Vegas culture on an executive level.
The UNLV EMBA cohort was a key source of inspiration for Marian. “The cohort was one of the most valuable parts… you’re surrounded by people from different backgrounds, most of them executives… people in different fields. We stay connected even now, strengthen our relationships, and share our growth stories.” (03:35)
He also drew inspiration from UNLV’s professors. “The faculty have been amazing. That made a great difference,” Marian says. (05:16) “You are treated as an equal to the professors there… I really appreciate that way of learning, and the camaraderie that they have.” (05:27)
The school’s collaborative spirit gives candidates the ideal environment to share ideas and knowledge. What’s more, the diverse nature of the cohort provides a rich array of perspectives to learn from.
Designed for mid-career and senior executives, the UNLV Executive MBA is the perfect program to accelerate career growth without stepping away from employment. By maintaining career momentum during an 18-month program, candidates can immediately apply new knowledge.
Marian advises candidates to immerse themself in the experience and use every resource available. “Take full advantage of the program, especially the network, and apply what you learn right away,” he says. “I saw firsthand that several people in our cohort received promotions within the first year because they were already applying what they learned.” (05:46)
Take control of your leadership and carve your own career path with the UNLV EMBA. Blending modern business theory and immersive, real-world learning, it’s a truly unforgettable learning experience.
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