Dennis Docherty

Why did you pursue an MBA?

"My career goal was to continue to develop and progress at Deere. The company routinely sends high performers through an executive MBA program. So when my senior managers asked me to consider getting an MBA, I took that as a positive sign."

Why UNC?

• Collaborative Environment: "Earning my MBA was one of the most challenging experiences of my life – and one of the most rewarding. The folks at UNC understood that business is about managing relationships. Beyond the academic rigors, the faculty and staff knew that an ability to form strong networks and build teams would help us advance our careers. Everything they did was focused on making sure we we’re successful."
• Convenient Commute: "Before graduation, Deere offered me a promotion that required me to move my family from Raleigh to Atlanta. The commute to Chapel Hill for weekend classes was easier than I expected. I’d fly in early Friday morning for class and return home on Saturday afternoon."

Career Impact

• Business Knowledge: "The depth of knowledge I gained in finance, strategy and analysis amazed me. Instead of looking at a decision from just a marketing perspective, I learned to think through the impact on the whole organization and our marketplace."
• Leading Teams: "My MBA team members came from different industries and disciplines, and we had different work styles. This showed me the value of building a team with a diverse set of functional skills, from finance to operations. Now I know what to look for when pulling together my own cross-functional teams at work – and I’m a better leader."