MBA Africa alumni showcase: Ehui Osei-Mensah

4 minute read
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Why did you apply to Oxford Saïd?

I applied to the Oxford MBA program at a pivotal moment in my career when I was deeply curious about the inner workings of businesses. At the time, I was the Director of Market Research at a firm in Washington, DC, providing insights to diverse B2B companies aiming to break into new markets, expand their offerings, or outmaneuver their competitors. I sought a formal education in business to sharpen my understanding of the drivers of success and elevate my leadership potential.

Oxford’s one-year program was also especially appealing to me as a working mother. I wanted an opportunity to advance my career without being away from my family for too long, and Oxford’s accelerated format made this possible. The school was incredibly supportive of students who were also parents or married. Many of my classmates spent the year at Oxford with their families—some even had children while on the program—and there were ample resources to help us manage these commitments.* This balance between academic rigor and family life was extremely attractive and allowed me to bring my authentic self into the experience.

Beyond the curriculum, Oxford's international reputation was a major draw. Growing up in an international school in Ghana and building my career across the US, I craved an environment that could offer a truly global perspective. Oxford's Saïd Business School stood out, with its multicultural lens on business education and its ability to prepare me for the culturally agile leader I aspired to become.

And, of course, the allure of Oxford’s storied history and architectural beauty was irresistible. The chance to study in a place where tradition meets innovation, all within a one-year accelerated program, felt like the perfect combination of challenge and opportunity. I knew it would be an exhilarating chapter of my life.

*Please check UK Government's website for the most recent guidance on student visas and dependant visas.

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What made the biggest impact on you during your time on the Oxford MBA?

Without a doubt, my classmates had the most profound impact on me during my time at Oxford. Everyone I met had a remarkable story, with diverse backgrounds and a shared ambition to use business as a force for good in tackling some of the world's biggest challenges.

I was privileged to learn alongside individuals from various fields—government, healthcare, impact investing, education, venture capital, and technology. These were not only some of the brightest minds but also some of the kindest people I’ve ever encountered, many of whom remain lifelong friends.

My African peers, in particular, left a lasting impression. They represented such promise and potential, reinforcing my belief in the future of our continent. Their passion and determination filled me with hope and inspired me to be a part of Africa’s journey toward progress.

Where has your career taken you since graduating from the MBA?

The Oxford MBA was a powerful catalyst for my career, opening doors to opportunities I hadn't anticipated. Immediately after the program, I was recruited by Microsoft as an Account Executive—taking on a new industry and role. My time at Microsoft was a whirlwind, often feeling like 'drinking from a firehose,' but the rigorous training at Oxford had prepared me well. The accelerated program taught me how to think on my feet, adapt quickly, and solve complex problems—skills I relied on daily in my role.

I spent nearly six years at Microsoft, transitioning through various sales roles before discovering my passion for Strategic Communications and Marketing. I honed my ability to use communications as a tool to drive business outcomes, shaping the voices of business leaders and amplifying their impact both internally and externally.

Today, I lead research product strategy for the Chief Diversity Officer Collaborative (CDOC) at Seramount, a firm dedicated to fostering inclusive workplaces. This role brings exciting intellectual challenges, and I thrive on the opportunity to integrate market research, strategy, and implementation. Oxford’s lessons—especially from courses like the GOTO program, where we explored the future of work—continue to shape my approach to innovation and leadership.        

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Is there anything from your time on the MBA that still influences you or that you still refer to?

Absolutely. Oxford ingrained in me a love for problem-solving, no matter the field or challenge. The ability to dissect an issue and approach it with a mindset focused on practical, actionable solutions is something I’ve carried with me in every role.

Finally, how would you sum up the overall impact that the MBA has had on you, and how has it enabled you to increase your own impact on your organisation and beyond?

My time at Oxford was transformative. Being accepted into the program boosted my confidence; completing it alongside some of the world’s most talented professionals humbled and motivated me. It pushed me to reach my fullest potential.

The lessons from Oxford have shaped me into a more collaborative, compassionate, and solution-driven leader. Whether navigating complex business challenges or working toward social impact, the tools and insights I gained at Oxford have allowed me to create meaningful change in every endeavor I undertake.

Oxford MBA