CFO Patrick Brunner sees a return on his investment

Patrick Brunner of NatureWorks, LLC, a Minnesota-based green chemistry and biopolymer company, enrolled in the Carlson School Executive MBA (CEMBA) program for its national and global recognition, plus its accommodating schedule. “The program offered a good balance of structure and flexibility,” he says of his experience. “The faculty had high expectations, but understood that we were all working professionals.”

With faculty having both strong academic credentials and strong practical business experience, Brunner felt he got the best of both worlds with his CEMBA education. In addition, because he was in a class of other high achieving professionals, he was able to gain knowledge from their experiences as well. “The amount of knowledge that passed through the classroom every session was truly inspiring,” he says. “There was always something in every session that I could take away and immediately apply to my work on Monday morning.”

Shortly after graduating in May 2007, Brunner saw a return on his CEMBA investment. He was promoted to corporate controller in June; a position that he quickly grew into, receiving broader responsibility and accountability. Two years later, in June 2009, he was promoted to his current position as chief financial officer of NatureWorks.

“Within two years of graduating from the CEMBA program I was in a C-level (chief-level) position,” he says of his rapid rise in rank. “Without the tools and education I received in CEMBA, the C-level position would have taken much longer to attain. I am now responsible for all finance, accounting, treasury, and IT functions. I am also a member of our executive committee which sets the strategic direction for NatureWorks.”

Asked what he liked most about his career path since attaining a CEMBA degree, Brunner says, “The level of responsibility I was given so soon after graduation. After going through the program, I knew I was extremely well prepared to handle whatever was thrown at me. I believe it was this confidence that gained the attention of the executive team and enabled my advancement.”

Reflecting on his Carlson School education and his accomplishments since graduating, Brunner says, “The Carlson Executive MBA program is a world class program. Without it I would not be where I am today.”
 

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