David Mitchell (EMBA '11)

Sabre Holdings, Director of Enterprise Operations

• Why did you choose to attend the Cox School?

I chose Cox for two primary reasons. One was the feedback I had been given when asking about Cox's program. From executives in and outside my company, I heard nothing but compliments about the program and the quality of professors at the school. Two was the location of a top 20 business school that was practically in my back yard. The location was not only convenient, but is complimented by the relationship Cox had with the Dallas community and companies in the DFW area.

• How has the Cox Executive MBA Program helped you to achieve your career goals?

I've always been valued as someone who could understand technology and the challenges that come with managing complex technical environments. The Executive MBA program at Cox has given me the tools to put those technical solutions and challenges in terms that are relevant to the business. In addition it helped me grow as a manager and leader; it has taught me to think differently when looking at today's global and local opportunities for our business.

• What advice would you give to candidates considering the Cox Executive MBA Program?

Be realistic about the amount of effort that the program is going to take and ensure you have the full support of your family and your company. Take the time requirement in context, the benefits from the program quickly overcome the two years of commitment.

• Please add anything else that is unique to your Cox Executive MBA experience.

I started the program in 2005 as part of the 2007 graduating class. Halfway through the program I was asked to transfer to a new acquisition my company had made in Europe. While in Europe the integration objective I had been given quickly grew in size, presenting organizational and business challenges alike. I quickly realized I was using something from every class that I had taken while at SMU. I then really understood the value of the Executive MBA program, so I vowed to come back and finish the program as soon as I was able.