Jonathan Herrick ’25

The MBA for Executives is ideal for someone looking to deepen their understanding of business while not losing sight of the societal impacts. In my field of capital markets, the development of advanced financial instruments and technology necessitates a deep understanding of evolving financial concepts, but at the same time the sector is also increasingly focused on sustainability. This combination aligns perfectly with Yale SOM’s focus on ‘business and society.’ This program is preparing me to lead initiatives that balance financial success with positive societal impacts, so that my career can keep evolving with the field.

My Yale SOM education goes beyond advancing my personal skillset and career. It’s also playing a direct role in enhancing my firm’s ability to compete and maintain a competitive edge in dynamic markets. Access to Yale’s expansive network, which offers invaluable industry connections and opens new business opportunities, including in debt markets, is another valuable benefit to my firm.

My leadership style was shaped by the Marine Corps, particularly my time leading Marines on the ground in Afghanistan. My style is direct, fair, and adaptable. In my civilian career, it’s been effective in the fast-paced and high-stress environment of the trading floor. But I’ve come to see that I can sometimes be overly direct. 

My coursework, and working alongside many talented classmates, has taught me the value in slowing down, fully considering various perspectives, and digesting different opinions before proposing a solution to a problem. I want to be the kind of leader who fosters an environment where openness and honesty are valued, and where problems are seen as opportunities for learning and improvement.