‘Aston is a university that invests in its students. Even as an alumni, I still enjoy the perks of once having attended Aston University.’

What did you study at Aston University?
MBA

Organisation?
Standard Chartered Bank

My career journey so far

My work experience spans across Corporate Law, Sales, Risk Management, Credit Analysis and most recently Strategy. I practised as a Lawyer briefly before fully starting my career in Standard Chartered Bank as a Financial Consultant in 2011. This was my first role in Banking and it involved portfolio management and sales. It was an enjoyable role as I had the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life. It was also satisfying as I was able to provide solutions through banking products by matching benefits to needs.

However, after a few years, I yearned for further development, I moved to Credit Risk Control. In this department, I learnt how to employ the use of credit risk management tools to mitigate risk. In search of further development including self-development and general management skills, I took a 1 year sabbatical and went to Aston University for a full time MBA (best decision ever). I came back at the end of the program and worked as a Credit Analyst. ‘My best course during the MBA was Business Finance. ‘(Matt Davies who was my tutor at that time, is pure genius). I then moved to Risk Management briefly and subsequently, to my current role as a Strategy/Business Planning Manager.

How I secured my current job

I strategized. When the role became available, I did my research, asked questions, prepared for the interviews. The interviews were very competitive. As a matter of fact, the first stage (which was practical) was completely different from all I had prepared for, however, I quickly adjusted and put my best foot forward. I applied the different strategy tools I had picked up during the MBA and used that to approach the interview questions. My versatile work experience also helped. Lastly, I focused on my strengths and it paid off.

Biggest achievement to date

My biggest achievement has been taking part in the full-time MBA. Apart from the taught modules which were really good, meeting and working with a diverse group of people was brilliant. I learnt how to approach life from different angles and how to tackle issues from different perspectives. The Mindful Global Manager course helped me address areas of my life that were greatly influenced by culture. I became a better Self-leader. I learnt the huge power of networking and mentorship/sponsorship (This was something I had never paid too much attention to before). Aston is a university that invests in its students. Even as an alumni, I still enjoy the perks of once having attended Aston University.

My advice to students

I will advise students to have a balanced approach to life at the university. Study hard but also give attention to other factors such as your social life and the life-long connections you can make. I am still in touch with most of my previous course mates and some tutors and of course the university. We have continued to be of help to each other through various stages in our careers. I will also say try to be exceptional in all that you do. This is a chance to develop your soft skills, perfect your presentation skills, become a more effective leader. If you are given a mentor, make sure you make the most out of the relationship and if you are not given one, seek one out.