Matthew Walton

Tell us about your role.

I am the Division Manager responsible for the infrastructure and the build for the Australian Grand Prix. My role involves the delivery of the build for both Formula One and MotoGP. I have a project team under me, and within that project team we deliver all of the infrastructure service requirements. So, everything from grandstands, portable buildings, marquee structures, the electrical services, plumbing and so forth, falls under my remit. When we’re preparing a build, we go through a significant planning process for both events. And our remit is to deliver the build for the rest of the organisation so that we have fantastic world class events.

Why did you decide to study an MBA?

The reason why I studied to do my MBA was I felt I had a gap in my knowledge and my experience. So the reasoning for that was to fill that gap. I had this burning desire to put some fun foundational elements into my thinking and my learning to help apply those experiences into my current job.

What were you afraid of when you first started the MBA?

My greatest fear when I went into study was the gap since I first studied, which was 20 years prior, and the fear of failure. Although I’m highly motivated and dedicated to achieve that outcome, not having studied for so long was quite a scary thought. However, with that focus, I was able to get through successfully.

How has the MBA helped your confidence?

The MBA has helped my confidence by allowing me to gain confidence and better articulate my ability to be able to communicate with other professionals within my business. It’s allowed me to understand the different elements within the business and its allowed me to focus and put my attention into my reading.
 
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