UPEI Executive MBA program and Newman Estate Winery partner in marketing challenge

The UPEI Executive MBA (EMBA) program recently partnered with a local company, Newman Estate Winery, in a marketing challenge for students. Five EMBA teams in the Business 603 Marketing Management class were tasked to prepare a comprehensive marketing plan to help with the launch of two new winery products. Each group presented their marketing plan to the company, the class, and a panel of judges. The winning team-Angie Cormier, Adam Proud, Mary Jane Webster and Bai Yunpeng-took home a Newman Estate Winery sponsored prize of $1,000.

Judges included Brian Howatt, Results Marketing & Advertising; Miriam Briggs, Briggs & Briggs Marketing; and Mike Newman, owner and operator of Newman Estate Winery, located in Gladstone, Prince Edward Island.

'The opportunity to work with a real company and to assist them in achieving their goals and objectives allowed everyone in our cohort to feel invested in this project,' said Webster. 'This was an incredible learning experience, and I believe Mike will appreciate all of the time and energy that the groups dedicated to his company.'

Newman always believed there would be a benefit of introducing 20 students to his company, but the value he received far exceeded his expectations. 'The groups really took the time to understand the business, and come up with some tactical strategies and innovative solutions to help out with some of the issues I was facing,' he said. 'I am already implementing many of these ideas into my business and I look forward to working with the School of Business on future projects.'

Launched in September 2008, the UPEI Executive MBA program provides a unique opportunity for working professionals to advance their education while continuing to work. It employs an integrated approach, peer-to-peer learning, and an emphasis on developing global perspectives to prepare graduates to act as leaders and innovators in an ever-changing environment.