Date May 1, 2026
All News

Brian Norris ’16 EMBA: Leading with purpose in a fast-moving media landscape

When Brian Norris enrolled in the IE Brown Executive MBA (EMBA) program, he was seeking a way to elevate his leadership. With extensive experience across media and senior leadership roles, he wanted a program that would challenge him and expand his global perspective. He was also looking to position himself for his next phase of growth.

Headshot of Brian Norris

Brian Norris, a 2016 graduate of the IE Brown Executive MBA (EMBA) program, built his career in the media industry, holding senior leadership roles across major organizations.

His work spans both operational leadership and strategic innovation, with experience at major media companies including Scripps, Dish Network and NBCUniversal. Despite this steady progression, Norris identified an opportunity to sharpen his business acumen, deepen his strategic thinking and engage with a global network of peers. 

With this in mind, he decided to pursue an MBA to further strengthen his skills. He ultimately focused his efforts on the IE Brown EMBA, choosing to apply exclusively to the program.

Finding the right MBA

As he explored his options, traditional MBA programs did not feel like the right fit. “I wanted more than just business knowledge. I wanted alignment with my personal values and a chance to make a difference,” Norris shared. After extensive research, he found that IE and Brown’s Executive MBA was the perfect fit. 

He was drawn to the program’s global perspective and collaborative learning environment. “Having access to an international cohort was a game changer. I was not looking for an echo chamber of like-minded professionals. I wanted diverse perspectives from across the globe,” he explained.

Norris also highlighted the faculty’s ability to structure learning around students’ strengths and weaknesses. “We were grouped intentionally so that each team had a mix of skill sets. That diversity made the learning richer and more practical.”

From operational leadership to strategic impact

Following graduation from the IE Brown EMBA, his career accelerated. He was promoted to head of sales at Dish, overseeing the organization’s entire sales strategy. Shortly after, he was recruited by NBCUniversal to lead a team focused on advertising solutions for small and medium-sized businesses, marking a significant step forward in scale and scope.

Today, he serves as executive vice president and chief revenue officer at Scripps, overseeing the media company’s revenue strategy across its portfolio of national television networks and local television stations.

“ Going back to school as a new parent and a busy executive was a big decision, but it was one of the best investments I’ve ever made ”

Turning insights into leadership


For Norris, the IE Brown EMBA experience went far beyond classroom knowledge. He learned to evaluate decisions with a long-term lens, considering their impact across multiple levels of the organization. “I’ve learned to step back, plan thoughtfully and recognize how each decision shapes outcomes. That mindset has transformed how I lead in a fast-moving media landscape.”

Time management was another unexpected benefit. “Finding the extra 20 hours a week for the program was a revelation. It taught me that I had more time than I realized — not just for work, but for my family, hobbies and personal growth.”

Since graduation, Norris has leveraged these lessons in multiple areas. He teaches as an adjunct at Fordham University, mentors young professionals, coaches his son’s sports teams and has even started an art collection, all while serving in a senior leadership role. 

“The program unlocked more than business knowledge. It unlocked the time and clarity to pursue what matters most.”

Measuring the return on investment

Norris emphasizes that the IE Brown EMBA was both a professional and personal milestone. It not only supported his advancement into larger leadership roles, but also gave him the confidence and framework to navigate them successfully.

“ The return is exponential. It is not just the career growth. It is the mindset, the framework and the courage to take calculated risks. I am not afraid to ask the hard questions or challenge assumptions in the boardroom. ”

Advice for future students


Reflecting on his journey, Norris encourages prospective students not to let fear of time hold them back. “You will find the time. The program will stretch you beyond what you think is possible, and that muscle memory will serve you long after graduation.”

He also underscores the power of the IE Brown network. “The community is incredible. I have stayed connected with my cohort, attended alumni weekends and built relationships that continue to grow. EMBA is not just a credential. It is a lifelong community.”

“Leadership is not just about making decisions. It is about being thoughtful, intentional and aligned with your values. The EMBA helped me integrate all of that into my professional life.”

15 Years. 15 Stories.

To mark the 15th anniversary of the IE Brown Executive MBA, we are sharing 15 alumni stories that reflect the breadth and diversity of the IE Brown EMBA experience.

Explore 15th Anniversary Stories