Journey of Growth with an EMBA: Insights from Ben Johnston

Ben Johnston, Managing Staff Product Manager at Intuitive Surgical, shares his inspiring journey of career evolution, the impact of an Executive MBA, and how he navigated his transition into the high-growth field of surgical robotics. His story offers valuable lessons for professionals seeking to pivot, grow, and seize new opportunities.

A Background Rooted in Medical Devices
Ben’s journey began in New York and took him through various roles in the medical device industry. His early career was at Synthes, a company specializing in orthopedic trauma devices like plates and screws for fracture repairs. This experience paved the way for his move to Johnson & Johnson’s Spine division in Boston, where he spent nearly eight years in marketing, culminating in global strategic responsibilities.

Expanding Horizons in Asia
In 2021, Ben relocated to Singapore to lead the Southeast Asia Pacific segment of J&J’s spinal surgery business. The move was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which meant two weeks of quarantine—but the experience was rewarding. Traveling across the region exposed him to diverse markets including Japan, Australia, and India, enriching his understanding of global healthcare markets.

Facing Business Challenges and Seeking Growth
However, as the segment struggled with performance issues, Ben began contemplating his next move. Recognizing the need for new skills and a strategic pivot, he explored executive education options, ultimately enrolling in the UCLA-NUS EMBA program for the 2022/2023 cohort.

The Value of the EMBA Program
Ben highlights several reasons why the program was a game-changer:

Confidence and Clarity: The program helped him define his career goals and gain confidence in pursuing new directions.
Broader Business Knowledge: Exposure to supply chain, finance, and other fields strengthened his understanding and communication across industries.
Global Focus, Especially Asia: The program’s emphasis on international business, with exposure to Asian markets, aligned perfectly with his interests.

Strategic Career Pivot to Surgical Robotics
While in the program, Ben identified an opportunity at Intuitive Surgical, the leader in surgical robotics, known for minimally invasive procedures like prostatectomies and hysterectomies. This was a perfect fit for his aspirations—moving into a high-growth tech segment aligned with his passion for innovative medical devices.

Relocating to Silicon Valley
In late 2023, Ben returned to the US, now based in the Bay Area. He emphasizes that pursuing an MBA from reputable programs provides a strategic edge as one advances in competitive leadership roles. Beyond credentials, the program’s exposure to different industries and collaborative environment fostered a “learning about others” mindset, boosting confidence to explore new roles and sectors.

Lessons from the Program
Ben praises the intensive, focused format of the UCLA-NUS EMBA, which he believes is highly effective:

Time Management: The 15-month commitment was manageable, with dedicated on-campus segments that allowed him to fully engage without extended duration.
Work-Life Balance: Though demanding, the program’s structure encouraged serious focus during sessions with plenty of time afterward to reconnect with work and personal life.
Enriching Classroom Conversations: One of the highlights was engaging with diverse peers and professors, gaining insights into various industries and business practices.
Memorable Experiences: The program also provided memorable moments exploring cities like Japan, India, Singapore, and Los Angeles, fostering camaraderie among peers.

Practical Tips for Future Students
Ben notes that the program suits those with a clear goal and willingness to embrace networking and resource opportunities. Having company support is crucial, especially for managing the intensive on-site modules. Plus, being prepared for occasional workload spikes, like exams after segments, helps ensure success.

Final Takeaway
Ben’s story underscores that an EMBA is more than just a credential—it’s a transformative experience that can propel professionals into new industries and leadership roles. His journey from orthopedic implants to surgical robotics exemplifies how continuous learning, strategic networking, and openness to change can redefine a career path.

Click here to watch his interview.

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