Gen Z turn to global business education to accelerate leadership careers

As traditional career ladders give way to skills-based advancement, more young professionals are pursuing international business education in an effort to reach leadership roles at multinational companies earlier in their careers.

The newly released Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026 list reflects a broader workforce trend: professionals are increasingly attaining senior positions at a younger age.

Among this year's honorees is Vietnamese executive Bui Duc Anh, 29, investment director at Kasikorn Business-Technology Group (KBTG), where he oversees strategic investments in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity for one of Thailand's largest financial groups.

Similar examples can be found elsewhere. In Europe, Majid Mohamed became one of Microsoft's youngest AI strategy leaders before turning 30, while Tobi Gbile has led major collaborations at fashion retailer GAP, including the GAP x Cult Gaia campaign.

These cases highlight a changing employment landscape in which leadership opportunities are increasingly shaped by capability, adaptability and strategic thinking rather than tenure alone.

The shift is also reflected in workforce research.

According to NielsenIQ, many young professionals are seeking ways to accelerate the early stages of their careers and gain access to leadership opportunities sooner. Rather than prioritizing stability alone, they are increasingly looking for positions that offer greater responsibility and international exposure.

A Deloitte survey found that career progression has become one of the strongest factors influencing employee retention. Nearly one-third of Gen Z respondents and almost one-quarter of Millennials said they would consider leaving an employer because of limited advancement opportunities, ranking career development ahead of salary concerns.

The findings point to growing demand for performance-based career pathways rather than advancement primarily determined by seniority.

Young professionals discussing. Photo courtesy of BUV

As employers place greater emphasis on leadership potential and global perspectives, many professionals are turning to postgraduate programs that combine management education with practical business experience.

One example is the Master of International Business Management (MIBM) program offered by British University Vietnam.

The program is delivered in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University. Its business school holds Triple Crown accreditation, a distinction awarded to a small percentage of business schools worldwide. The 12-month curriculum is designed to help professionals strengthen management and leadership capabilities.

Graduates receive two qualifications: a Master of Science from Manchester Metropolitan University and a Master of Business from the Vietnamese institution. According to the university, the combination is intended to provide both international recognition and regional relevance.

Concurrently, the degree from BUV, whose MBA program ranks 43rd in Asia according to the QS 2026 rankings, serves as a benchmark for postgraduate educational excellence.

Beyond classroom instruction, the program incorporates applied learning through live business projects, case studies and engagement with corporate leaders. Students also gain access to a network of more than 500 corporate partners, including multinational companies and leading Vietnamese enterprises.

Shark Linh (C) observing young employees debating. Photo courtesy of BUV

International study trips form another component of the curriculum, allowing participants to observe how organizations in different markets apply emerging technologies and management practices.

According to the university, the blend of academic study, practical experience and industry engagement is designed to help participants develop strategic thinking, decision-making abilities and leadership skills earlier in their careers.

Alumni say the experience has helped them broaden their professional perspectives.

"Studying for my master's degree transformed not only my career but also the way I approach management challenges," said Chu Thi Linh Chi, risk consulting director at KPMG Vietnam and an MBA graduate of the university. "It helped me move beyond technical expertise and develop the strategic perspective required for leadership."

As businesses continue to prioritize adaptability, international outlooks and leadership potential, programs that combine global academic standards with real-world business exposure are becoming an increasingly popular option for professionals seeking to advance their careers.

The university is Vietnam's first QS 5-Star institution and the first higher education institution in Vietnam and ASEAN accredited by the UK's Quality Assurance Agency (QAA). Its programs combine academic learning with industry engagement to prepare graduates for international careers.

See here for more information about the MSc International Business Management program.