When Frank Jiao, MM-A '22, joined the Master of Management in Analytics program, he was looking for a way to use data and analytics to push projects forward at work and to create innovate solutions.

“There is often this gap between people who excel at the technical, data side and those who really need the data to make decisions about the business,” says Jiao, Manager, Data Science and Analytics at InnVest Hotels, one of the largest hotel owners in Canada.

“I saw an opportunity around the question of how to translate the information you get from raw data, and then help executives to make the correct decision.”

His classes at Ivey sparked an idea to digitize and automate some aspects of his company, so it could free up manpower to analyze the data being gathered and provide insights into how to best use that information. He wrote a proposal and shared it with his boss, which led to a promotion to Data Science Manager.

“My background is mathematical economics, so I’ve always been interested in problem-solving. But without the program, I wouldn’t have the mentality or knowledge to take on the role I’m taking on now.”

Jiao credits the business and leadership side of the MM-A with helping him develop more effective ways to speak with – and to explain technical concepts – to his company’s executives, while the technical courses helped him sharpen skills around building forecasting models and testing different hypothesis. He also learned how to do all it all with a very quick turnaround time.

“The Case Method and the discussion of those cases in class really helps, because you not only need to absorb the teachings quickly from the instructor, but also from your colleagues, and you need to give your thoughts,” he says.

“It was very challenging, especially when you had to give presentations in front of the whole class, but that really made me more comfortable when I speak to executives, clients, or partners, so it’s also very valuable.”

For anyone thinking about joining the MM-A, Jiao says the best way to make the most of the program is to come prepared, participate, and stay curious.

“Be proactive with your classmates, and with your instructor, when you have questions,” he says.

“The classroom is a great place to practice, it’s like a driving range before you hit the golf course. The more you engage, the better everybody gets.”