Originally published in NDNU Magazine, 2012

When he decided it was time to take his career to the next level, Myles McCormick turned to Notre Dame de Namur University (then CND) for his Master of Business Administration. Since NDNU, Myles has gone on to successful careers at Gymboree (CFO), Bare Escentuals (CEO) and now as a top executive at Berkshire Hathaway. We recently caught up with Myles, who filled us in on lessons learned in the classroom and the "real world."

How did you end up at NDNU?

I was working at Esprit in the early to mid-nineties and my friend/roommate Rich Boragno was working at Wells Fargo Bank. We were both ambitious and wanted to take our careers to the next level. Rich surveyed all possible graduate schools in the Bay Area and decided CND was best.

How did NDNU benefit you?

I was able to apply what I learned in real time. For example, I remember I was taking a financial analysis class and one of my assignments involved analyzing a balance sheet and comparing different types of accounting methods. At the exact same time at work, I was asked to analyze the balance sheet of a company Esprit had just bought. My classroom work was extremely helpful in allowing me to do that analysis. I saw how relevant my coursework was in the real world.

What was your impression of NDNU?

The students and professors were great. The education was very practical. I was impressed by both the professors and the students, who had interesting careers, expertise and talents. The curriculum required a lot of team work, the projects were meaningful and my classmates were easy to work with.

Tell us what NDNU is not.

If I were interested in working in New York in private equity, I would go to a different school. NDNU is not for everybody. But it is great for someone wanting practical knowledge and mentoring to be a manager in Corporate America. I have a young friend who wants to take some time off from his career and go into private equity at the top levels. I recommended Santa Clara to him, instead of NDNU. However, another friend was interested in a more fundamental, practical education and I recommended NDNU to him. If you are a young, ambitious professional in management, NDNU is a great choice.

What is the most difficult business lesson you've ever learned?

Two come to mind:

First, in my opinion, the most important decision you ever make as a manager is the people and the culture around you. The most difficult decision you will ever make is whom you choose to work with. That is much more important than your financial plan or your marketing plan. Good management and corporate success is about people and a cultural fit. It is important to be very smart about the talent you hire and to make sure they share a dynamic of collaboration.

Second, it is important to stay a learner. Adults have a tendency, or natural inclination, to be knowers, but it's important to listen, ask questions and stay curious.

What characteristics do you value in an employee?

Creative thinking, creative problem solving, flexibility, openmindedness, curiosity.

How would you characterize your style of management?

Fair. Direct. I trust my teams. Well, I guess to really know, you'd need to ask my employees. I have trust and respect for the people who work for me. I rely on them.

What is your favorite phrase?

"Just put the boat in the water." It's sort of another way of saying, "Just do it."

Take the Next Step in Your Career with NDNU

Myles McCormick's journey from MBA student to business executive highlights the value of practical education, professional connections, and lifelong learning. At Notre Dame de Namur University (NDNU), we continue to build on this tradition by preparing students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to advance their careers and become effective leaders.

Through NDNU's School of Business and Management, students benefit from experienced faculty, career-relevant coursework, and flexible learning options designed for working professionals.

Our Master of Business Administration (MBA) program offers concentrations in Artificial Intelligence, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Finance, Healthcare Administration, and Public Administration & Non-Profit Management, allowing students to tailor their education to their professional goals.

Whether you're looking to advance into leadership, transition into a new industry, or strengthen your business expertise, NDNU offers educational pathways designed to help you take the next step.

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Explore NDNU's MBA program and discover how our School of Business and Management can help you achieve your professional goals.