Currently Director of the Athens Value Creation Consultancy, Evangelos is the perfect example of a seasoned professional who made a conscious career decision to expand his experience and fast track his career via further study. Following his studies at Bayes, he now imparts the knowledge he gained to those on a similar journey. He recounts the highlights and key takeaways of the Bayes Executive MBA and how he has not only maintained connections with his alma mater but also sought to advise those charting their own professional path.
What was your background prior to taking the Bayes Executive MBA?
“My academic background was rooted in business studies, with my Bachelor’s level studies taken in Greece focused on Business Administration and then a Master’s here in the UK in Operations Research. The latter provided me with a strong foundation in quantitative analysis and was a conscious choice to complement my undergraduate studies.
“I’ve worked across various industries and functions. I’ve always had a passion for aviation, which led me to spend over seven years in the airline industry following my Master’s. While I thoroughly enjoyed that sector, I was eager to broaden my experience, which took me into telecoms and media—specifically at Sky—where I held several roles within a subscription-based business model.
“Later, I transitioned into the technology and food delivery sectors to gain exposure to more transactional business models. And then after completing my Executive MBA, I moved into agile environments, applying the finance and strategy skills I mastered during the programme. It’s been a fascinating journey so far that has definitely expanded both my professional experience and functional expertise.”
What were your motives for resuming studies with an EMBA and why at Bayes?
“I identified gaps in my finance knowledge, particularly around financial instruments and financial management, which are critical for senior leadership roles. Although I had worked closely with finance teams, I lacked formal training and a comprehensive overview in some areas.
“In addition, I was inspired by mentors and managers who had completed MBAs and demonstrated a more holistic and strategic approach to leadership. Bayes stood out for its strong faculty in both Strategy and Finance areas I wanted to deepen. It’s location in the heart of the City of London was also a compelling factor, offering proximity to the financial sector and a vibrant professional network.”
What were the highlights of your experience as an EMBA student?
“There were many memorable moments, but one standout was the ‘Achieving Your Potential’ weekend. It was a transformative experience focused on self-awareness and reflection, especially meaningful given the limited in-person interaction during the COVID lockdowns.
“Another highlight was the simulation exercise in the M&A elective held at Aldersgate. It was an intense, competitive, and energising experience that brought out the best in everyone. Beyond the academic side of things, the camaraderie and social interactions with my cohort—whether during lectures or informal gatherings—were invaluable. The diversity of experiences shared by peers enriched the learning environment and made the programme truly special.”
What were the key takeaways from the programme?
“The EMBA significantly enhanced my confidence and strategic thinking. It equipped me with a deeper understanding of finance and broadened my perspective on business challenges. The programme also fostered lasting professional relationships and friendships. Despite busy schedules, many of us continue to stay in touch and meet regularly, which speaks to the strength of the cohort and the bonds formed throughout the journey.”
How have you maintained your connection with Bayes since the completion of your studies?
“Since completing my EMBA, I’ve remained actively engaged with Bayes by visiting annually to speak with both Full-time and Executive MBA students. I share insights from my own experience—how I leveraged the EMBA to advance my career and maximize the value of the programme. These sessions are designed to help students reflect on their own journeys and make the most of their investment, both in terms of time and energy.
“I also maintain informal connections with students and alumni, offering support through casual meetups and acting as a sounding board for their ideas. This includes guidance on electives, time management, and their Business Integration Projects. These interactions are mutually rewarding and help me stay reflective and focused on my own professional growth.
“Most of my engagement with current students happens later in the academic year, when they begin making decisions about electives and final projects. I offer practical advice based on my own experience of balancing work and study and I encourage them to seek support when needed—something I found invaluable during my own EMBA.”
What advice would you give to prospective EMBA students?
“An EMBA is a significant commitment, both financially and personally. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your motivations and goals before enrolling. I recommend attending pre-application events to assess timing and readiness. While demanding, the programme is deeply rewarding—not only in terms of knowledge and skills, but also in personal growth and self-awareness. The relationships and networks formed during the EMBA often last a lifetime.”
What benefits have you derived from giving back to your alma mater?
“Engaging with the Bayes community continues to enrich my professional life. I enjoy discussing career development with alumni and current students and I’m always open to exploring opportunities where I can contribute meaningfully. One of the most valuable outcomes of the EMBA is the shared mindset among graduates—we communicate with a deeper understanding of values and impact – and this is something that continues to foster strong professional connections to this day.
“My message, therefore, to any alumni considering re-connecting with Bayes in this manner is to not hesitate as the mutual benefits are there for all to see.”