On 19 July 2025, the University of Manchester China Centre warmly welcomed the new cohort of the Manchester Global Part-time MBA July 2025 intake. The induction ceremony marked the beginning of a transformative two-year academic journey for a group of experienced professionals from around the world.
Ms Sherry Fu, Founding Director of the University of Manchester China Centre, and Mr Josh Gabriel, Senior Programme Manager at the British Council, attended the event and delivered opening remarks to congratulate and encourage the incoming class.
This year’s cohort showcases exceptional diversity and professional calibre. With an average age of 37.5, participants bring an average of 13 years of work experience and 6.5 years in managerial roles. Over 30% already hold a master’s degree or above. The cohort represents a truly international mix, including students from China, Egypt, Uganda and beyond, reflecting a rich cultural blend.
Professionally, 74% of the students are from multinational corporations across a wide spectrum of industries such as biotechnology, healthcare, technology, FMCG, manufacturing, consulting, finance, logistics and energy. Notably, nearly 40% are engaged in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotech. The majority occupy mid- to senior-level leadership roles, with 38% already at the C-suite level—clearly demonstrating the cohort’s strategic aspirations and leadership potential.
In her welcome address, Ms. Sherry Fu reflected on the legacy of the University and the Centre’s ongoing mission. “For over two centuries, the University of Manchester has been committed to excellence in education and research, driving innovation and impact both locally and globally. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Alliance Manchester Business School, one of the UK’s first two business schools. True to our motto, ‘Original Thinking Applied,’ the MBA will enable you to gain fresh perspectives, enhance decision-making, and redefine your career trajectory.”
Ms Sherry Fu, Founding Director, UoM China Centre
She further noted that, in today’s VUCA world, choosing to invest in oneself through a global MBA is both a courageous and wise decision. Since its founding in 2008, the China Centre has been committed to cultivating internationally minded leaders, fostering cross-cultural exchange, and promoting UK–China collaboration in education, business and culture. With over 50,000 alumni now based in China, the Centre will continue to serve as a hub for professional growth, innovation, and meaningful engagement.
In his address, Mr. Josh Gabriel extended his heartfelt congratulations to the new students. He highlighted that embarking on the Global Part-time MBA is not merely a professional upgrade, but a meaningful journey that begins with self-awareness, renewed motivation, and a clear vision for the future. Becoming a student of a leading UK university marks a significant personal and professional milestone—an opportunity to think and act as global leaders. He encouraged students to embrace this journey with purpose: to collaborate, support one another, and grow together as a diverse learning community. With access to the University’s extensive global network and vibrant alumni community, students are empowered to transform learning into action—tackling complex challenges and contributing to real-world solutions with insight, integrity, and impact.
Mr Josh Gabriel, Senior Programme Manager, the British Council
To help break the ice and foster connections, the induction featured interactive team-building games, creating a warm and engaging environment for the students to get to know one another. Many expressed excitement about joining a diverse and global learning community, and shared aspirations to broaden their international perspectives, deepen their understanding of business trends, and develop cross-cultural leadership capabilities.
In support of their academic success, students will receive ongoing assistance from both the Manchester-based student support team and the China Centre’s dedicated local team. This dual support model ensures that each student receives personalised guidance on navigating the University’s virtual learning environment and making full use of its digital learning resources.
During the induction, the China Centre student services team led a detailed introduction to the University’s online platforms and answered practical questions, ensuring everyone was well prepared to embark on their MBA studies.
As these ambitious professionals begin their academic journey, we look forward to witnessing their transformation into visionary global leaders—equipped not only with strategic insight and business acumen, but also with the sense of social responsibility that lies at the heart of the University’s values.
Applications for the January 2026 intake of the Manchester Global Part-time MBA will open on 1 August 2025. Seize the opportunity to take your career to the next level with one of the world’s leading business schools!
Join the Jan. 2026 Intake
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