In today’s ever-evolving professional landscape, continuous learning and skill building are essential to stay ahead. Annie Webb, MBA '23, a seasoned advocate in government affairs, recognized this truth early on in her career.
After 17 years working in the financial services sector, advocating for key issues like tax reform, cybersecurity, and retirement solutions, she realized that a gap in her professional toolkit was hindering her full potential. This gap wasn’t in policy knowledge or legislative affairs, but in business expertise. Enter the MBA program at the Costello College of Business at George Mason University.
Annie’s journey is a clear example of how an MBA can provide the missing piece for professionals who already have deep expertise in one field but seek to expand their skill set in another. With years of experience in government relations, specifically in the financial services industry, Annie knew that to truly accelerate her career and open new doors, she needed to develop a stronger understanding of business operations.
“I’ve always worked in the government relations office at financial services companies, but I had never worked within one of the business units. That was the place where I had the most opportunity to grow and develop,” Annie shared. The solution? Pursuing an MBA.
By enrolling in GMU’s MBA program, Annie was able to dive into the business theories and practices that her colleagues had already been exposed to in their own educational journeys. The program would allow her to build on her extensive advocacy background while gaining a deep understanding of the fundamental business concepts that shape every successful organization.
One of the key factors that has contributed to Annie’s success in the MBA program is her involvement in the Bryce Harlow Fellowship. This prestigious fellowship supports professionals in policy advocacy who are pursuing graduate degrees, offering valuable mentorship, networking, and learning opportunities. The fellowship’s commitment to ethics and integrity in lobbying aligns with Annie’s own values, and it has provided her with tools to grow both personally and professionally.
“The Bryce Harlow Foundation emphasizes ethics in lobbying, which is something I deeply resonate with. Our currency as lobbyists is trust and integrity. Losing that trust means losing your ability to advocate effectively,” Annie explained. Through the fellowship, Annie has had the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, attend educational events, and, most importantly, be paired with mentors who guide her in her career development.
Her mentor for the past year, Karen Knutson, the leader of global government affairs at Chevron, has played a pivotal role in shaping Annie’s professional trajectory. “Karen’s advice has been invaluable in helping me navigate my current role while preparing for what comes next in my career,” Annie shared.
The fellowship also offers a unique opportunity for mid-career mentorship, helping fellows build relationships with professionals who are just a few years ahead of them. This well-rounded support system ensures that Annie’s growth is both immediate and long-term, positioning her for continued success.
Annie's role as Associate Vice President for Federal Government Relations at Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company has always been demanding, focusing on issues like corporate tax, data privacy, and retirement solutions. Yet, despite her extensive experience and success in this role, she knew that an MBA would set her apart from others in her field.
“The MBA program has helped me understand how the different parts of my company operate, like accounting, finance, and organizational management. It’s deepened my understanding and appreciation for why certain business decisions are made,” she noted. As someone who works across multiple business units, Annie now feels better equipped to connect with her colleagues and advocate more effectively within the company.
Annie credits classes in change management and organizational behavior as particularly impactful. “I’ve learned how these theories can be applied to improve how work gets done, not just within my own team, but across the entire organization,” she explained. This has given her a new perspective on her day-to-day work and allowed her to approach challenges with a more strategic mindset.
Moreover, Annie sees her MBA as a powerful differentiator that will give her a competitive edge in future career advancement opportunities. “Not many lobbyists pursue an MBA. By taking the time to understand business operations more deeply, I know this will set me apart from my peers in a significant way.”
For professionals like Annie, who already have extensive expertise in their field, the MBA program at GMU offers a unique opportunity to elevate their careers. It provides not only an understanding of business fundamentals but also the skills needed to navigate and influence complex organizational dynamics.
Annie encourages others in the policy and government relations sectors to consider how an MBA could enhance their career: “The MBA is helping me complete the picture. It’s giving me the tools to understand business in a way I never did before. It’s a rare opportunity to deepen your knowledge, gain new perspectives, and build a network that can serve you for years to come.”
For anyone in a similar position—whether in government affairs, policy advocacy, or another specialized field—Annie’s story is a compelling reminder that sometimes the most powerful way to grow is by gaining a broader understanding of business and leadership. With the right program, like the MBA at Costello, professionals can fill in the gaps that hold them back and push their careers to new heights.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, an MBA could be the key to unlocking your full potential, just as it has for Annie Webb.