Sharon Lee
Born in Hong Kong and raised in Singapore, Sharon Lee has been a marketer in the beauty industry for more than ten years. With a passion for traveling and diving, she loves staying active and exploring new places—both on land and under the sea—and is always in search of her next adventure. Coffee is her fuel; she could never get through a day without it.
"Having a degree from IE Business School allows me to position myself with more of an international exposure."
Why did you choose to pursue the IE Brown Executive MBA?
When I decided to pursue my postgraduate studies, I knew I wanted to look for something outside of Asia to gain international exposure, as well as something beyond just a fully online program for an engaging student experience. The IE Brown Executive MBA checked all the boxes: It allows me to have both international exposure and a hybrid of online and residential weeks, while still being based in Asia for work. The combination of programs between business and humanities from both schools was also a unique factor that differentiates IE Brown EMBA from the rest of the programs.
What were your first impressions of Madrid?
Madrid is a beautiful city with amazing food, people and culture. It's definitely a place I can even see myself living!
How does a degree from IE Business School help you stand out from other candidates?
With most of my education having been in Asia, having a degree from IE Business School allows me to position myself with more of an international exposure.
Tell us about your role as a regional product marketing manager at Estée Lauder.
My role encompasses being the brand custodian of the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region for Bobbi Brown. I work on developing the marketing strategy for the region and work closely with the APAC markets in driving execution excellence. I also collaborate with the global team to drive product development that is relevant to the needs of APAC trends to boost regional relevance for the brand.
You’ve worked for a few major brands throughout your professional career. Why did you decide to pursue the IE Brown Executive MBA at this point in your career?
Being in mid-level management at this point in my career, I decided to pursue the IE Brown Executive MBA to help me further equip myself with the skills and mindset necessary to advance in my career. I also hope to broaden my perspective through connecting with people from different industries and positions to explore and expand my options for the future.
You completed your undergraduate studies in Singapore and are now living in Hong Kong. What was it like for you to come to Madrid for the residential weeks?
Having lived and worked mostly in Asia, traveling to Madrid for the residential weeks was a fresh change in environment and pace. The language and culture were very different, and it was nice to have the opportunity to live, study and experience the culture as a student, even if it was just a few weeks.
What has been your favorite part about the IE Brown Executive MBA so far?
My favorite part of the IE Brown Executive MBA is the unique hybrid structure of the program. The online and residency combination allows me to have an international learning experience that also builds real in-person connections. And the residential weeks really foster camaraderie within the cohort, making it a truly unique experience.
What advice would you give someone who is about to start the IE Brown Executive MBA?
Enjoy the process and time with your cohort mates, because before you know it, you’re already halfway through the program. It won't be easy, but pace yourself and don't stress too much about not being able to finish the readings!
