The ever-changing global economy, driven by technological trends and trade barriers, demands breakthrough management thinking, flexible adaptability, and a long-term strategic vision. So, what is the way forward for managers in this challenging era?

Challenges in a complex environment

The rapid rise of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and cloud computing is fundamentally reshaping how businesses operate worldwide. A 2024 global survey by McKinsey revealed that 65 per cent of businesses have adopted AI in their operations. Meanwhile, blockchain, with its ability to ensure transparency and secure data, is gradually being applied in finance, real estate, and retail. Cloud computing has also become a critical foundation, enabling businesses to optimise performance and enhance operational flexibility.

However, this technological wave brings not only opportunities but also significant challenges, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam, which face increasingly fierce competition.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently released its 2025 Global Economic Outlook Update, highlighting several challenges. It points to risks such as heightened trade tensions, tighter financial market conditions, and growing uncertainties. Tariffs are expected to further pressure the global economy, slowing post-pandemic growth in regions, including Vietnam.

In this context of mounting economic challenges, business leaders and managers need innovative perspectives on long-term strategies. This requires a shift in leadership mindset, substantial investment, and strengthening internal capabilities within each organisation.

Experts note that globalisation is not just about market expansion but a comprehensive test of leadership capabilities. Managers who fail to quickly acquire international knowledge and a global mindset risk falling behind in this race.

A roadmap for managers

To adapt to these economic shifts, experts suggest that successful leaders and managers in the new era must possess essential skills, apply accumulated knowledge and experience to contemporary business challenges, and manage risks effectively. Beyond acquiring new knowledge, managers must broaden their perspectives and develop a global business mindset.

In this context, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme at British University Vietnam (BUV) attracts many participants, including mid-level leaders and managers, due to its highly practical approach and alignment with market demands.

The distinctive feature of BUV’s MBA programme is its focus on developing core leadership competencies. Rather than emphasising academic theory, the programme targets five key management and leadership competencies, including strategic agility, organisational agility, customer focus, drive for results, and career ambition. These critical competencies enable managers to lead businesses through turbulent times, not merely maintain stable operations.

Dr. Simon Kimber, Head of School, the graduate school at BUV, shared insights on the teaching approach: “The programme is built on a ‘problem-based learning’ philosophy, where students tackle real-world business scenarios, propose solutions, debate, and refine strategies. This method not only sharpens critical thinking but also hones decision-making skills in practical contexts.”

Additionally, the programme's part-time weekend study format is ideal for working managers who wish to advance their learning without pausing their careers.

Another advantage is that the programme is accredited by the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). All faculty members hold international qualifications, with 60 per cent possessing doctoral degrees and real-world business experience. Students learn not only from textbooks but also from the practical expertise of their instructors.

Beyond imparting knowledge, BUV’s MBA programme facilitates professional networking. Through a multidisciplinary learning environment, specialised workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and corporate connections, students gain access to industry leaders and experts, fostering opportunities for collaboration, entrepreneurship, or new career prospects.

Upon graduation, students are equipped to manage businesses holistically, with a strong foundation in finance, marketing, strategy, and risk management. They also develop analytical skills, systems thinking, and adaptability – essential for effective management in the digital age.

Ms. Nguyen Bich Diep from Clickable Impact Consulting Group shared that the MBA programme not only provided her with highly applicable management knowledge but also developed essential skills to become an actual senior manager: from asking the right questions and analysing problems to crafting focused solutions, leading multinational teams, and gaining a comprehensive view of the market.

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

British University Vietnam (BUV) is Vietnam’s first QS 5-star university and the first in Vietnam and ASEAN accredited by QAA, the UK’s prestigious higher education quality assurance agency. BUV’s well-designed programmes stay current with industry trends, combining theory and practice to ensure 100 per cent graduate employability or further study within three months of graduation.

Learn more about the Master of Business Administration programme:
https://www.buv.edu.vn/en/programmes/master-of-business-administration-mba/