Michael Wong

I was born in Shantou, China and got my Bachelor degree in Economics from Guangzhou University in 2007 before I went to the UK. After one year's language-enhancement programme (ELAN) at Northumbira, I officially enrolled on the MAIBA in 2001 and graduated in 2003.  In the same year my family decided to move to Canada permanently and I started my career as a commodity trader in 2004.  In 2010, I joined Grande Cache Coal LP, a coking coal producer and exporter in Western Canada, and was positioned as Marketing Manager with responsibility for over USD$300 million sales per annum.

Where are you doing now?

As Marketing Manager, my primary role is to ensure that the company gets the best business results. Grande Cache Coal LP is a coking coal producer in Canada.  The product is being exported to markets all over the world including China, Japan, Korea, South America and Europe. 

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals / give your career an edge?

The MAIBA programme was designed for students interested in joining multinational companies and it is perfect for my current business position where I have to deal with customers all over the world.

What was the best thing about your course?

The MAIBA programme covers the most important aspects of business, i.e. Human Resources, Marketing, Strategic Management, Organisational Management, etc.  Not only does it provide solid fundamental knowledge that all business people must have, but it also provides students the opportunity to experience and discuss hands-on scenario analyses and business simulations.

Who inspired you the most, and why?

Li Ka Shing, the greatest businessman in Asia, who has great business philosophy, inspired me a lot.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now/throughout your career?

The International Marketing course benefited me the most.  It gave me the tools to use when dealing with customers around the world.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

Not only did I enjoy my student life at Northunbria University, but also I liked the Toon very much.  The Quayside was being developed at that time and the Millennium Bridge was built when I was there.  Alan Shearer was and always will be a legend in English football history.  My memories of Northumbria will be with me for a very long time.

What advice would you give somebody who is thinking of studying at Northumbria?

Northumbria university is always able to provide students with great academic resources. Besides that, the city is a great place to live in.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in 3 words?

Absolutely brilliant.