John Franz
"One of the most meaningful moments of growth for me has been learning to connect with people from very different backgrounds. After living and working in San Francisco for many years, I realized how much of a bubble I had been in. The program pushed me out of that comfort zone and into conversations that challenged my assumptions. Rather than defaulting to shared experiences, I had to lean into curiosity and empathy—learning to meet people where they are and build relationships across cultural, geographic, and professional lines. In today’s increasingly divided world, that kind of connection is not just valuable—it’s necessary.”
Global Executive MBA
Industry:
Prior Education:
Northeastern University
BS Business Administration & Finance
Why I Chose Fuqua
My decision to pursue a Global Executive MBA was deeply inspired by my grandmother. Raised in a patriarchal environment where only men were encouraged to pursue higher education, she postponed her academic journey to raise 11 children. In her 50s, she returned to school, earned her master’s degree, and began a teaching career. Her story instilled in me the belief that it’s never too late to learn and grow—a value that continues to guide my own journey.
Fuqua was the obvious choice for me. As someone who has always thrived in team settings, especially through sports, the Team Fuqua spirit truly resonated. What set it apart was that the collaborative culture wasn’t just marketing. Every interaction—from alumni to administrators—reflected a community that leads with humility and authenticity. It felt like a place where I could grow, contribute, and belong.
Now, being in the program, I’m more certain than ever that I made the right choice. Having my grandmother still cheering me on makes this experience even more meaningful. Her journey continues to inspire mine.
Before Fuqua
I was an independent consultant in financial services technology, managing projects that support transformation and operational scale. My work focuses on program delivery, process optimization, and implementation strategy. I help firms modernize systems, streamline workflows, and align cross-functional teams to execute effectively in complex, fast-paced environments.
After Fuqua
My goal is to continue leading transformation in corporate environments—fixing distressed initiatives, building operational rigor, and enabling scale. Strengthened by the Global Executive MBA, I aim to elevate into the leader companies call when stakes are high and direction must shift, while at the same time pursuing entrepreneurship through acquisition to identify transition-stage businesses where I can unlock value and drive renewed growth.
5 Fuqua Networking Tips
- Reach out with confidence
- Use LinkedIn intentionally and personalize messages
- Be authentic—let your personality show
- Stay engaged by attending events and following through
- Check in regularly to build genuine, lasting relationships
Bonding Beyond the Classroom
During our residency in Lima, Peru, one of the most memorable experiences was dining at Central—one of the world’s top restaurants. As someone who considers themselves a foodie, it was an unforgettable opportunity to experience such artistry through food. But what made it truly special was sharing it with a small group from my cohort.
The meal lasted nearly five hours, and each course sparked new conversations about our lives, backgrounds, and perspectives. It wasn’t just a dinner—it was a deep, thoughtful exchange in an environment that encouraged presence and connection. We laughed, reflected, and shared stories that might never have surfaced in a more formal setting.
That evening highlighted the unique value of this program. It’s not only about gaining a global business education—it’s also about forming lasting bonds through shared experiences that go beyond professional roles. The sense of community and depth of connection I felt that night is something I’ll carry with me long after the program ends.
MSQM:HA students "meet" in Durham without leaving home
Global Executive MBA
Top Areas of Career Focus
Financial Services (20%)
Consulting (5%)
Sales/Business Development (5%)
Energy/Chemical/Gas (9%)
Marketing/PR/Advertising (6%)
Consumer Goods (3%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Non-US Citizenship
Women
Master of Management Studies: Duke Kunshan University
Undergraduate Majors
Business/Accounting (51%)
Economics (22%)
Liberal Arts (14%)
Engineering/Natural Sciences (10%)
Other (4%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Non-US Citizenship
Women
Master of Management Studies: Foundations of Business
Undergraduate Majors
Liberal Arts (33%)
Business/Accounting (24%)
Engineering/Natural Sciences (18%)
Economics (17%)
Other (8%)
Average Age
Average Work Experience
Countries Represented
Non-US Citizenship
Women
Weekend Executive MBA
Top Areas of Career Focus
IT (16%)
Financial Services (14%)
Health Care/Health Services (10%)
Manufacturing/Operations (9%)
Sales/Business Development (8%)
Consulting (8%)