Jarek Zasadzinski MBA Graduate 2010
For Jarek Zasadzinski, Director of Operations at Greiner Packaging, the Queen’s MBA was more than a degree,it was a turning point. The programme’s intensity, collaboration, and leadership focus empowered him to grow, adapt, and lead with purpose.
Before beginning the MBA, my career was on a solid path. I had built experience in production, site management and purchasing, and I was eager for a transformational experience that would help me step into leadership with confidence and purpose. That’s precisely what the Queen’s MBA delivered.
Joining the programme was both thrilling and humbling. Of the 14 of us who started the journey together, only 7 made it through to the end. That sounds dramatic, and it was! But it speaks volumes about the intensity, rigour, and high standards of the experience. And despite the challenges, or perhaps because of them, we formed a tight-knit cohort that I still stay in touch with today. Our shared triumph in completing such a demanding journey continues to motivate me.
Post-MBA, I noticed a profound shift not just in what I could achieve, but how I saw myself. The blend of experiential learning and teamwork instilled in me a clearer sense of leadership, sharpened critical thinking, and, most importantly, a confidence to step into complex, ambiguous environments. It enhanced how I collaborate, strategize, and take ownership of outcomes.
In the years since graduating, I’ve been able to advance into multi-national roles of VP or Director Operations, making more strategic contributions within my organisation and beyond on several continents. The support network of fellow alumni, faculty, and mentors from Queen’s has made all the difference, whether that’s through referrals, strategic advice, or simply encouragement during challenging moments.
For any prospective MBA candidate wondering whether it’s worth the leap, I would say, yes, wholeheartedly. The programme is intense and demanding, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences you can invest in. You emerge not just with advanced business knowledge, but with resilience, lifelong connections, and a broader vision for what’s possible professionally and personally.
Thank you again, Queen’s Business School, for lighting that spark both through the world-class curriculum and through connecting driven, diverse learners who drive each other forward. I’m proud to be part of the Queen’s alumni story.
