An award-winning songwriter, music producer, and director, Shujun Huang is dedicated to helping emerging artists succeed in the entertainment industry. To hone the management skills required for the business side of his career, Shujun decided to attend our Senior Executive Leadership Program—China (SELPCH). While on the HBS campus for the program's fourth module, Shujun shared how this educational experience will help him shape the future of his organization—and the trajectory of China's rising stars.
How did you get your start in the music industry?
I learned how to play the violin when I was 10 and discovered the guitar at 12, but I never dreamed of becoming a composer until I was 20. When I was a junior in college, I started to compose and write songs. I won first prize in a contest, which led to a contract from a record company and a rewarding career in the entertainment business.
Why did you decide to attend SELPCH?
While speaking at HBS Shanghai, I got to know some of the faculty and students. They introduced me to the SELPCH. I earned my first EMBA degree in 2006, and much has changed since then. The cases, the methods, the models—they're all different. So I decided to go from being a speaker to being a student. It was a very smart decision.
What's it like to participate in program modules in both Shanghai and Boston?
I've enjoyed it a lot. I love to study here in Boston because I can be more focused than when I’m balancing other responsibilities in Shanghai. I've found it very productive to learn in different cities, and I hope to study in Boston more.
Have you enjoyed learning alongside a diverse cohort of participants?
Yes. Many of my classmates are in finance and other industries, and I've appreciated hearing the perspectives of people outside the entertainment business. My fellow participants are so engaged and willing to share their experiences.
I'm an artist, but I'm also a businessman. I've seen talented musicians fail to make enough money to support themselves because they focus only on the idea—not on the business. By participating in this program and learning from my classmates and professors, I can help my fellow musicians make the most of their talents.
SELPCH is taught in both English and Mandarin with simultaneous translation. What did you think of this bilingual learning opportunity?
Because I'm fluent in English and Mandarin, I didn’t need to use the translation. However, I enjoyed listening in both languages because sometimes certain details just cannot be easily translated from one language to another. I know it was very helpful for my classmates who are more comfortable speaking in Mandarin because they were better able to express themselves and understand the content.
What do you think of the case study method?
It's wonderful. In fact, the professor was talking about a case focused on the music industry, and I stood up and said, "I was there when that happened." The professor allowed me to share with my classmates how music piracy fundamentally changed the entertainment business and the way composers like myself earn money. It's a different world, a different time.
What is a key piece of management advice that you're bringing back to your company?
Reset your mindset. Treat each creative work as part of a holistic business strategy.
What would you tell other people about SELPCH?
I would say that if you can only choose one program, choose one from HBS. This is the top school in the world—and you’ll study cases here that you won't find anywhere else.