Tauber Institute alumni bring their operations expertise to leadership roles in a wide variety of fields, all over the globe. Read about what some of our alumni are doing today, and learn about the impact their Tauber experience has had on their career paths.
Rebecca (Brown) Achariyakosol is the Executive Director, WW Services Upsell Offer Development & Marketing at Lenovo. Prior to this position, she was the Director of Global Support Services M&A and Strategic Programs at Dell’s headquarters in Round Rock, Texas. Upon leaving U-M, she worked as a consultant for A.T. Kearney before finding her niche at Dell. Here’s what she recalls of her days in Ann Arbor, and her advice for today’s Tauber students.
Q: In what ways did your Tauber experience shape the professional that you are now?
A: Tauber gave me an extra layer of rigor and corporate professionalism on top of the regular MBA program. The skills I learned with regard to operations and technology are a part of my everyday life today.
Q: When you think back on your time with the Tauber Program, what stands out?
A: My most beneficial and memorable experience was my summer project. I was fortunate enough to be able to work with two other individuals who had tremendous experience and skills -- and who was fun to work with. It was a great learning experience.
Q: What is the most challenging aspect of your work life today? How do you find new talent?
A: The most challenging aspect for me is finding the right roles that allow me the challenge and ability to progress while also allowing me the flexibility to manage my home life. I’m also continually looking for new talent for my team as priorities and the business landscape continues to change. The main trait I am looking for in employees is someone who has the intelligence and flexibility to be able to tackle any challenge that is put in front of them. While I look for skills that are specific to the role, I am also looking for someone who can adapt and succeed in a variety of situations. Business priorities and challenges are constantly changing. I need people who can change with them and figure out how to move ahead in ever more ambiguous situations.
Q: What advice do you have for current and future Tauber students?
A: Take advantage of every opportunity you can while in Tauber. Soak up as many experiences, classes, and seminars as you can, but don’t overlook the learnings you get from spending time with your peers. There will never be another time in your life where you have this opportunity to grow and expand to this extent.
Q: What would your peers at Tauber be surprised to know about you today?
A: I think my fellow alums would be surprised by how passionate I have become about children and children’s causes. I am very active with the March of Dimes organization and other charities that promote the well-being of babies and children.