Yao Wen

“A financial consultant, global traveler, and creative cook, driven by new experiences and challenges”

Hometown: Jiangxi Province, China

Fun Fact About Yourself: I love traveling and immersing myself in different cultures. I’m fascinated by how people live, eat, and think differently, and I enjoy connecting with locals to gain new perspectives. In every place I visit, I always remember one thing that leaves a lasting impression, whether it’s food or the people.

Undergraduate School and Major: Wuhan University, Financial Management

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Strategy and Transaction Service, Senior Consultant

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

I started my career auditing large multinational corporations and later transitioned to evaluating financial risks for startups. Throughout my projects, I saw firsthand how technology is transforming industries and the unique challenges startups face, such as strategic growth and cash flow issues. This solidified my passion for helping startups develop sustainable growth strategies. As an external financial advisor, I recognized the need for a more holistic understanding of strategy and deeper business insights. That’s why I decided to pursue an MBA to gain the strategic expertise required for tech startups to succeed long-term.

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

“China depth, global breadth”. The courses and cases in the CEIBS MBA program not only provide us with a deep analysis of the transformation of China’s economic development but also taught us how to adapt to the fierce competition from all sides of globalization when uncertainty is the new constant.

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?

CEIBS has an incredibly strong alumni network in China, which is well-connected and influential. Having relocated every few years, I’ve found it challenging to maintain business networks. Since I plan to work in China post-MBA, CEIBS’s alumni network will be invaluable.

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

Marketing. The professor uses case study teaching methods to introduce the essentials of marketing: what’s the source of value, how firms and consumers behave, and how marketers create value for consumers in today’s dynamic environment. The professor constantly asks questions to lead us to find out the issues of the company step by step and lead to the key theory she wants to deliver in the end. This teaching method helps us apply classroom concepts to real-world business scenarios, allows for dynamic exchanges of ideas and perspectives, encourages us to think critically, and enhances our problem-solving abilities.

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

I’ve really enjoyed leading the Food and Beverage Club as its president. Networking is crucial during the MBA, and our club’s mission is to create memorable experiences through food, drink, and community. We held the first event for the 2026 batch in October, and it was a success in bringing together students from different sections and helping them to know each other better. In addition, I’m also a student ambassador and recently led my first campus tour for potential applicants. I find this role incredibly rewarding, as I can empathize with their journey and help them navigate some of the challenges.

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

My biggest professional achievement was leading a project under challenging conditions, ensuring the timely delivery of critical findings to clients despite severe understaffing and an unexpected leadership change. When the project manager resigned at a critical point, I stepped up, taking on leadership responsibilities, managing the project, guiding junior staff, and addressing investors’ and partners’ queries. My efforts uncovered financial risks, earning investor appreciation for the depth and value of my analysis.

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

During a CEIBS mentor sharing session, I was struck by the “promotion triangle” concept: to get promoted, three things must happen—you must be good, someone must say you’re good, and that person who says you’re good must also be good. As career progression is such a big focus during the MBA, this advice really resonated with me and is helping shape my future career plans.

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

Academically, I was surprised by the 3-E framework (Economics, Environment, and Ethics) introduced in the Business Ethics class. I used to behave according to my personal ethical values and I think it’s good for all the stakeholders, but now I understand that overlooking economics and environmental aspects can harm a company’s sustainable profitability.

Non-academically, I was surprised by how many of my classmates come from family business backgrounds. This could be CEIBS’s strong influence on China’s economy and the trust many local enterprises have in the program.

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

Prepare early and aim for good GMAT or GRE scores. Attend CEIBS events like coffee chats and career workshops, and talk to more alumni about your career goals or challenges. This will help you better understand why MBA, why CEIBS, and why you.