Mike Croatti, MBA ‘09

Senior Vice President, Operations
UniFirst Corporation

How did Riv prepare you for your career?  My MBA coursework applied directly to my real-world environment. I enjoyed the mock negotiations, in-depth case studies, and a range of financial topics. My classmates included many people from BAE Systems and foreign countries, and I gained new perspectives based on our interactions.

What’s your typical work day?  I am typically in the office by 7 a.m. or on a plane at 6:30 a.m. I am in one of our facilities daily, reviewing sales, customer retention, plant processes, and efficiencies. I meet with employees and check on what they might need to accomplish their goals, and I also visit customers and sales prospects on my location visits.

Your advice to future students? I am always advocating for people to get their MBA through Rivier or even their undergraduate degree. I have sent my employees to get their MBA there, and I actively recruit from Rivier for UniFirst. Students who attend Rivier have a high moral character and a solid foundation for business. They graduate with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in their chosen career fields.