From MBA student to business owner: Ally backs herself

For Ally, completing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Newcastle was about more than adding another qualification to her resume. It gave her the skills, network and confidence to take the leap into business ownership.

A mum of three and Hunter Valley local, Ally is now the sole owner and operator of Little Leaf Consulting, a fractional CFO consulting firm providing financial expertise to small and medium businesses and not-for-profit organisations.

“I'm my own boss! I work as a Fractional CFO, working part time so I can structure my client work around my family life. I've finally found that sweet spot between using my skills and education to contribute to businesses whose values align with mine, whilst being present for my family and myself.”

Ally's career began with a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) at the University of Newcastle, followed by a Graduate Diploma of Chartered Accounting with CAANZ. She returned to the University to complete her MBA, graduating in December 2022.

At the time, Ally was working at Newcastle Airport when management invited her to undertake the MBA as part of her professional development.

“I was working at Newcastle Airport at the time when management tapped me on the shoulder and asked if I'd like to take part in the Women in MBA program as part of my professional development. I didn't know it then, but the MBA would give me the skills and confidence to one day start my own business.”

Studying part-time at Newcastle City Campus allowed Ally to balance her studies with work and family. She also experienced the rapid shift to online learning when COVID-19 lockdowns began shortly after she commenced her degree.

“I started my MBA right as we went into COVID lockdowns, so the University had to quickly shift the earlier classes online. They were incredibly responsive and supportive through this change. Eventually we were able to get into a physical classroom, which was a really great change of scenery. Juggling work, family and study during such an uncertain time wasn't always easy but being able to mix online and on-campus classes made it possible.”

Today, Ally draws on her MBA every day, combining her finance expertise with knowledge of marketing, governance, business operations and corporate social responsibility.

“The MBA at the University of Newcastle prepared me for running my own business. Gaining an education in marketing, governance, and business operations, on top of my finance background has given me the full toolkit to successfully operate Little Leaf Consulting. It also plugged me into a network of professionals across the Hunter Region, connections I still value today.”

For Ally, the value of her MBA extends beyond the skills she gained. The friendships and professional connections she made during her studies continue to play an important role in her life.

Her advice for anyone considering postgraduate study is to be realistic about balancing study with other commitments and to choose a study load that allows them to put their learning into practice.

“Just that I'm so glad I took the leap. The MBA changed the direction of my career and gave me the confidence to back myself. If you're thinking about it, go for it!”

The MBA changed the direction of my career and gave me the confidence to back myself.