Wendy Kent

“Strategic thinker with global supply chain and product development expertise, skilled in SME business growth”

Hometown: Beloit, Wisconsin USA

Fun Fact About Yourself: Played Bell No. 6 in the hand bell choir in my teens.

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire – Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Linstol Inc. – Procurement and Operations Director

What has been the biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

Increased turnover of a £2M SME to £50M and EBITDA from 6 % to 15 % in a 5 year period. It was the first business where I could combine all my experience gained in the USA, China, France and the UK to achieve dramatic but focused results.

When you think of your school, what is the first word that comes to mind?

Innovative

The UCL MBA program is new and data focussed and we are taught by leading professors that have hands-on business knowledge.

What are one or two key aspects of this program that led you to choose the program, and why were they so important to you?

• Cutting-edge curriculum focused on digital transformation, data analytics, and emerging technologies
• Diverse student body and faculty representing various backgrounds and industries, fostering rich learning experiences

What course, club, activity, or experience excites you the most and why?

• AI White Papers – published in conjunction with Capgemini, an analysis, review and critique of the benefits and risks of AI and how they should be globally regulated to prevent misuse and impropriety.
• Immersions – great mixers where the students travel from around the world coming from their home/work environment to meet and mix in London for an extended weekend of business discussions, learning and fun.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs?

Steven Bartlett Podcast – Diary of a CEO. The variety of interviews covers a breadth of industries and subjects. There are some great nuggets of information on leadership and how to lead global teams.

What are two things you have learned that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

• The impact of artificial intelligence and machine learning on traditional business models and ‘old-school’ industries especially with the rise of ChatGBT in the years that I have been in the MBA program.

• Even though the students are from many different countries, cultures and have roles across various industries, we are all very much the same in our goals.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into your MBA program?

• Showcase your passion for digital innovation and technology in your application essays and interviews.
• Demonstrate your relevant experience and achievements highlighting measurable results and impact.
• Research the UCL MBA programme thoroughly and tailor your application to align with its curriculum and values.
• Connect with current and past students as well as faculty to gain insights and perspectives on the program, its community and outcomes.

CLICK HERE TO MEET THE MBA CLASS OF 2025 FROM THE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON SCHOOL OF MANAGEMENT