About
Name: Calvin Liew
Nationality: Malaysian
Programme: MBA 2023
Education: BAcc Corporate Finance, University of Adelaide, Australia
Pre-MBA role: Associate Director, Consulting, KPMG Melbourne
Post-MBA role: Senior Finance Manager, Agoda, Bangkok, Thailand
Why did you choose to do an MBA? What were you looking for in your career?
I was looking to broaden my financial expertise and deepen my understanding of areas beyond traditional finance such as energy markets, economics, artificial intelligence and deep technology.
I wanted to enhance my financial acumen and expand my understanding of the subjects beyond traditional finance.
I was eager to refine my skills in financial modelling, investment analysis and market dynamics. These are essential tools for making informed decisions in an increasingly complex business environment.
How has the MBA enabled you to pivot in your career?
At Agoda, I am now directly involved in decision making, executing strategic initiatives first hand rather than advising from the outside. There is real satisfaction in seeing my work have a measurable impact on the growth of the organisation. The MBA has helped me transition into a more hands-on role.
How did you shape your MBA experience to drive your finance career transition?
I was drawn to the MBA’s finance-focused courses, which provided both foundational learning and advanced insights tailored to real-world applications. The Corporate Finance core class helped me refine essential financial concepts while diving deeper into complex investment strategies.
During the Easter term, I chose the Finance Concentration, where I explored how private equity firms could integrate artificial intelligence across the PE lifecycle. This was an eye-opening experience that exposed me to emerging trends at the intersection of finance and technology.
Industry engagement was another standout aspect of the programme, with Coach Nights offering direct insights from seasoned professionals on financial trends and market dynamics.
I also took an elective course in Mergers and Acquisitions, which significantly enhanced my understanding of deal structuring, valuation and negotiation strategies. These skills have proven incredibly useful in my current role at Agoda.
How did the MBA’s global network and diversity impact you?
Studying alongside classmates from diverse financial backgrounds such as investment banking, private equity and asset management has broadened my perspective on financial decision-making, enriching both class discussions and group projects.
The Cambridge alumni network was also pivotal in my career transition. A Cambridge alumnus at Agoda introduced me to the company, guided me through the application process and helped me understand how my skills aligned with the role.
Relocating to Southeast Asia after spending my entire career in Australia was a challenge but my MBA network provided immediate support. Several classmates from Thailand were returning home, giving me an instant community.
Beyond technical expertise, the programme shaped my leadership skills. The Management Praxis course refined my ability to work across different cultures and I left the MBA as a more strategic, adaptable and confident leader, ready to tackle complex business challenges with fresh insight. Beyond the financial skills I gained, the MBA truly helped me grow as a leader.
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Career opportunities for our latest MBA graduates
Despite economic uncertainty, our MBA graduates have secured strong career opportunities, reflecting their resilience and adaptability. As we publish the Cambridge MBA Employment Report 2025, Cambridge Judge Business School remains committed to preparing students for success in a dynamic global market.