Emre Karamagara

“A growth enthusiast who loves building connections, whether they are person-to-person or B2B!”

Program: MBA

Hometown:Istanbul, Turkey

Fun Fact About Yourself: I enjoy adding a bit of irony to my workday by frequently using my ‘unofficial’ title of ‘Chief Fun Officer’. It’s my way of blending a little humor with professionalism and proving that even in the most serious roles, there’s always room for a bit of levity.

Undergraduate School and Major: 

Istanbul Bilgi University – Psychology & History (Double degree)

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: My current employer is TikTok and I work as an Agency Partnerships Manager.

What were some of the key motivating factors behind pursuing your MBA, and why did this seem like the right time for you?

One of the key motivating factors behind pursuing my MBA was the desire to enhance my business acumen and leadership skills. I have always been passionate about driving organizational growth and innovation, and I recognized that an MBA would provide me with the strategic insights and advanced knowledge needed to excel in these areas.

Additionally, I wanted to expand my professional network and learn from peers and industry leaders who bring diverse perspectives and experiences. The MBA program offered an ideal platform for this, allowing me to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborations that would enrich my understanding of global business practices.

Timing was another crucial factor in my decision. Having gained substantial experience in my field, I felt it was the right moment to take a step back, reflect on my career trajectory, and invest in my personal and professional development. The insights and skills gained from the MBA program would not only help me address current challenges but also prepare me for future leadership roles.

Moreover, the evolving business landscape, characterized by rapid technological advancements and market dynamics, underscored the importance of staying ahead of the curve. Pursuing an MBA at this juncture seemed imperative to equip myself with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate and thrive in such a dynamic environment.
Overall, my pursuit of an MBA was driven by a combination of personal ambition, professional growth, and a strategic vision for the future.

When you think of your school, what is the first word that comes to mind and why?

I can say “growth”. The environment encourages continuous personal and professional development and another would be “diversity” The Quantic school embraces a wide range of perspectives and cultures, enriching the learning experience.

What are one or two key aspects of this MBA program that stood out among the others, and why were they so important to you?

One key aspect of the Quantic School of Business and Technology that stood out to me was its innovative approach to delivering education through a cutting-edge digital platform. The program’s emphasis on leveraging technology to create a flexible, interactive learning environment was important to me because it allows for a more personalized and convenient learning experience. The ability to access high-quality content and engage with peers from anywhere in the world aligns with my need for a program that fits seamlessly into my busy schedule.

Another notable feature was the school’s focus on integrating technology and data-driven decision-making into the curriculum. The emphasis on these areas is crucial for my career goals, as I seek to harness technological advancements and data analytics to drive strategic business decisions. The program’s blend of business fundamentals with a strong tech orientation prepares students to excel in a rapidly evolving business landscape, making it a perfect fit for my aspirations.

Overall, the Quantic School’s unique digital learning platform and its focus on technology-driven business strategies were decisive factors for me, as they align with my goals of gaining a modern, flexible education while staying at the forefront of technological advancements.

What course were you/are you most interested in taking coming into the program and why?

Coming into the program, I was most interested in taking the course “Leading Organizations.” This course intrigued me because it focuses on developing essential leadership skills and understanding how to effectively manage and inspire teams. In my career aspirations, I aim to take on leadership roles where the ability to guide and influence others is crucial. The insights and strategies provided in this course will help me enhance my leadership capabilities and effectively navigate organizational dynamics.

Additionally, I am excited about the “Data & Decisions” course because of its emphasis on using data analytics to drive business decisions. In today’s data-driven world, the ability to analyze data and make informed decisions is invaluable. This course promises to equip me with the analytical tools and techniques necessary to extract actionable insights from data, which will be instrumental in my goal of making strategic, evidence-based decisions in my future roles.

Both of these courses align perfectly with my professional objectives and personal growth goals, making them particularly compelling components of the MBA program.

What club, activity, or experience at the school have you most enjoyed so far, and why?

So far, the experience I have most enjoyed at the Quantic School of Business and Technology has been participating in the Global Business Club. This club offers a unique opportunity to engage with peers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, facilitating rich discussions and collaborations on global business issues. The exposure to different perspectives and the chance to work on international projects have significantly broadened my understanding of global markets and cross-cultural management.

Additionally, the Global Business Club regularly hosts webinars and guest lectures featuring industry leaders and experts, providing invaluable insights into current trends and best practices in global business. These events have not only expanded my knowledge but also allowed me to network with professionals and thought leaders in the field.

The combination of interactive discussions, practical projects, and networking opportunities has made the Global Business Club an enriching and rewarding experience, aligning perfectly with my interests in global business and my goals of developing a more comprehensive, international business perspective.

What do you consider the biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

The biggest accomplishment in my career so far has been creating a B2B partnerships ecosystem at TikTok and helping launch the TikTok Business Ecosystem. This project was pivotal in establishing a robust network of business partners and advertisers, significantly enhancing TikTok’s business capabilities and market reach.

One of the key challenges was identifying and onboarding the right partners who could contribute to the ecosystem’s growth and sustainability. I spearheaded the development of a strategic plan that involved extensive market research, outreach, and negotiation with potential partners. By fostering strong relationships and ensuring mutual benefits, we were able to build a cohesive and dynamic partnership network.

The successful launch of the TikTok Business Ecosystem not only provided a new revenue stream for the company but also positioned TikTok as a valuable platform for businesses to connect with a global audience. This accomplishment demonstrated my ability to drive strategic initiatives, collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and deliver tangible business results. It was a defining moment in my career, showcasing my skills in partnership development and ecosystem building.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs? 

One film I recently watched that I would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs is “The Big Short” directed by Adam McKay. This film provides a riveting and insightful look into the 2008 financial crisis, focusing on the complexities and intricacies of the financial markets.

“The Big Short” is not only an engaging story but also a valuable educational tool. It delves into the importance of understanding market dynamics, the impact of regulatory frameworks, and the ethical considerations in financial decision-making. The film brilliantly illustrates the consequences of systemic failures and the importance of due diligence and critical thinking—skills that are crucial for any MBA student.

Additionally, I must mention how much I love Christian Bale as an actor. His portrayal of Dr. Michael Burry in the film is exceptional, bringing depth and authenticity to the character. Bale’s performance highlights the power of innovative thinking and the courage to challenge the status quo, as depicted by the protagonists who identified the impending crisis and acted upon it. These lessons are particularly relevant for prospective MBAs aiming to make a significant impact in the business world.

Overall, “The Big Short” is a thought-provoking film that combines entertainment with deep insights into the financial industry, making it a must-watch for anyone pursuing an MBA.

What are two things you have learned at your school that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

One academic insight that has surprised me at the Quantic School of Business and Technology is the depth of the data analytics curriculum. I was aware that data analytics would be an important part of the program, but I was pleasantly surprised by how comprehensive and hands-on the courses are. The program not only covers the theoretical aspects but also provides extensive practical applications, using real-world data sets and advanced analytical tools. This approach has significantly enhanced my ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions, which is an invaluable skill in today’s business landscape.

On the non-academic side, I was surprised by the sense of community and the level of engagement among students, despite the program being online. The interactive platform and numerous opportunities for virtual networking, group projects, and discussions have created a supportive and collaborative environment. I was initially skeptical about forming meaningful connections in a digital format, but the school’s structure and initiatives have fostered a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie among the students. This network has been instrumental in exchanging ideas, gaining diverse perspectives, and building lasting professional relationships.

What advice would you give to help prospective MBA gain admission into the MBA program?

Craft a Compelling Narrative: Clearly articulate your career goals, motivations for pursuing an MBA, and how the program aligns with your aspirations. Admissions committees look for candidates who have a well-defined vision and can demonstrate how their experiences and goals align with what the program offers. This really helped me to advance in my admission process.

Highlight Unique Experiences: Showcase experiences that set you apart, whether they are professional achievements, leadership roles, or impactful projects. Emphasize how these experiences have prepared you for the challenges of an MBA program and how they contribute to your overall story. My experience in working with different cultures, locations and sectors allowed me to highlight this dimension of my career.

By focusing on these aspects, prospective MBA candidates can create a compelling application that highlights their strengths and fits well with the program’s values and offerings.