Did you know that each of our MS programs has an Advisory Council of industry leaders? Our AC members provide mentorship to current students, advise staff and faculty on the curriculum and future of each program, and advocate for the programs broadly. Learn more about one of our MS Business Analytics council members, Joe Sagrilla below:
Tell us a little bit about yourself – your educational/professional background and current position/company.
I completed my undergraduate studies at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, with a double major in accounting and general business. I then completed an MBA at Cleveland State University before taking the CPA exam.
I’ve spent the majority of my career in management consulting working with global companies across industries on projects including business strategy, transformation, technology, process improvement, business analytics, organizational effectiveness, and M&A integration. I’ve had the opportunity to work at large firms including Booz Allen, Ernst & Young, and PwC. In late 2018 I was looking for a new challenge, so I joined a technology implementation startup called Clearsulting as Chief Strategy Officer to help the company expand and scale.
Why have you volunteered your time to be on the MSBA Advisory Council?
The invitation to join the MSBA Advisory Council was something I couldn’t pass up. It’s a wonderful opportunity to give back in a small way by investing in the next generation of business leaders. Through the Council, members have a platform to work with the MSBA program leadership to ensure that the course content is evolving on pace with the business technology landscape. It’s extremely rewarding to see the MSBA leadership incorporate the Council’s industry perspectives into the course content to help optimize the program for student success. Council members also have opportunities to help students flourish through panel discussions, mentoring circles, and interview preparation. It’s a rewarding experience all around.
What do you enjoy about working in the field of business analytics?
I love the Edwards Deming quote: “Without data, you’re just another person with an opinion.” With business analytics, one can quickly separate opinion from fact, which is essential when trying to diagnose a complex issue or design an effective solution. As a consultant, I found business analytics to be an indispensable tool for cracking tough client problems and presenting compelling recommendations. I’ve also had the opportunity to help multiple clients deploy analytics systems at the enterprise level. I’ve witnessed firsthand the tremendous value analytics systems create through improved automation, decision support, and forecasting.
In your teaching capacity at McCombs as well as your interactions from the Advisory Council, what is your impression of McCombs students?
I’m constantly impressed by the caliber of McCombs students. They are ambitious and hold themselves to a high standard while remaining humble and open-minded. McCombs students are truly a joy to teach and interact with.
Why do you think someone should choose Texas McCombs to earn a Master of Science in Business Analytics?
McCombs is an innovator in this space with tremendous foresight, as it was one of the first schools to launch an MSBA program. Since its launch, the McCombs MSBA has been highly ranked each year and universally recognized as a top-tier program.
I think what sets the program apart is its laser focus on student success. Students leave the program with working knowledge of the latest technologies and analytical models, along with the business acumen and communication skills to create real value in the business world.
I see the McCombs MSBA program as a launchpad for career success. Some of the most prestigious and innovative companies in the world recruit McCombs MSBA students. Students also benefit from an incredible Career Management team to help guide them through the job search process.
Why should a company hire a McCombs MSBA graduate?
McCombs MSBA students leave the program ready to solve problems and create business value for the companies they join. The program is very intense, so prospective employers can be confident that any graduating student is highly motivated, with a strong work ethic and passion for business analytics. These students have been trained by some of the best minds in the field on the latest concepts, with a constant emphasis on creating business value. As an employer, you can be confident that McCombs MSBA students are well prepared to apply their skills and make a meaningful contribution at your company from day one.
Ending on a tough one – what is your favorite part about living in Austin?
Austin is an amazing city that seems to get better every year. It’s hard to name a single favorite thing about living here. Having lived in the Midwest for most of my life, I enjoy the weather and skipping the long, cold winters. Beyond that, the entertainment options are hard to beat – standup comedy, live music, amazing speakers at UT, incredible restaurants – there’s always something fun to do in Austin!
