S2 E3 | Skipping Corporate for CEO: Bob Boniface’s ETA Journey (HBS)

KeywordsMBA, entrepreneurship, career progression, application process, HBS, business school, leadership, search fund, COVID-19, networkingSummaryIn this conversation, Bob Boniface shares his journey from working at General Motors to pursuing an MBA at Harvard Business School and eventually transitioning into entrepreneurship through acquisition. He discusses the value of an MBA, the application process, the impact of COVID-19 on his business school experience, and the lessons learned while running a business post-MBA. Bob emphasizes the importance of networking, being open to new opportunities, and the skills gained from an MBA that have helped him in his entrepreneurial journey.TakeawaysBob's background in finance and operations at GM set a strong foundation for his MBA journey.The decision to pursue an MBA was influenced by observing successful leaders in his field.Crafting a compelling application requires time and thoughtful preparation.Networking is crucial in the MBA application process and beyond.COVID-19 impacted the MBA experience, but Bob found value in the relationships formed.The search fund model allows for entrepreneurship without starting from scratch.Running a business post-MBA requires a diverse skill set and adaptability.The HBS brand can open doors, but credibility is built through actions and decisions.Bob's future aspirations include returning to the auto industry in a leadership role.Keeping an open mind about career paths can lead to unexpected opportunities.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bob Boniface01:00 Bob's Pre-MBA Career03:30 The Decision to Pursue an MBA07:34 Crafting a Compelling Application11:47 The HBS Interview12:54 Essay Writing and LORs14:43 Application Process Challenges15:33 Original HBS Essay Prompt15:55 LOR Wisdom17:40 Deciding to Attend HBS During COVID19:38 HBS Highlights21:20 Transitioning from GM to Entrepreneurship23:04 Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition25:45 ETA with a Co-Founder/Co-CEO27:22 Bob's Business Partner28:15 Owning and Operating a Small Business31:19 HBS Brand Considerations and Reflections33:13 Medium- and Long-Term Career Plans34:58 Advice for Prospective MBA Applicants36:41 Evaluating Bob's Applicant Profile38:26 Bob's Application Process and Preparation40:21 Insights from Bob's MBA Experience