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The course

Why did you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School (UEBS)?

The key drivers for me were the programme’s top ranking in the QS Global University Rankings, the School's strong relationships with industry and alumni community, and the graduate success stories.

Another key aspect was the openness of the students and the diversity of the class. Before applying, I was able to talk to current students, and that showed me the type of culture the Business School has.

What was it about the degree programme that particularly attracted you?

One reason was the practical approach the courses had and the opportunities the School offered to work with industry, for example Edinburgh Airport, where I would be able to address real-life problems.

The academic profile of the lecturers was also important to me. The lecturers had significant experience in the field of operational research and analytics. I was interested in working in the aviation industry and found that one of the lecturers had undertaken research in aviation and was also interested in that sector.

Your career

Can you tell us about your career before and after graduating?

Before joining the University of Edinburgh Business School, I worked in the automotive and financial industries, where I found my passion for data analytics and operational research. Nevertheless, I had always known I wanted a career in the aviation industry - ‘the business of freedom’.

During my MSc I completed a client sourced dissertation with Lufthansa Cargo which enabled me to network and show my capabilities and passion for the industry. I was delighted when they offered me a Commercial Manager role.

While there, I used my analytics and digital skills to help develop a commercial and financial strategy and influence change. In addition, I led the inclusion and diversity pride campaign, enabling me to influence further important change.

After that, I followed my dreams with an opportunity at Airbus to join one of the Lean Manufacturing Graduate Schemes and a path to pioneering sustainable aerospace. Here, I had the opportunity to gain experience in different departments and expand my knowledge of the industry.

I can use my degree to positively impact people and communities.

How did your degree prepare you for your career?

My degree gave me prescriptive, predictive, and digital skills that have enabled me to develop a critical mindset and focus on the ‘big picture’ in the projects I do. In that sense, I remember one of my modules, Predictive Analytics, where we studied the network of an airline. Traditional education will focus on solving the problem in mathematics. However, our lecturer invited us to think more about what those findings meant. That's a key aspect I keep in mind to understand the whole process, the solution, and what it entails.

In addition, the professional development support offered by the Business School helped me to develop a clear career path and set up action plans. I still use it, even today.

Masters of Change

What are the changes you have been able to make in your chosen field, of which you are most proud?

One of the key changes I’ve been able to implement is to support both Lufthansa Cargo and Airbus in moving from more traditional processes to producing effective and efficient digital processes.

I’m also proud to have been part of the first warehouse in Mexico City Airport to show support for inclusion and diversity. I was able to create a Pride campaign which enabled and encouraged a culture of acceptance, respect, and support within the organisation, which was recognised by the team and the industry in Mexico City Airport. This an important achievement because this influenced others in the industry to also show their support. I’m now doing even more within Airbus; influencing and supporting groups including Pride@Airbus and WePionear for sustainability.

How did your studies at the Business School help you to make those changes?

The Simulation and the Predictive Analytics courses have been crucial for me and have given me methods which I still use today. I apply multi-criteria decision analysis to develop strong and weak indicators; using this proven methodology to verify decisions regarding the efficiency of the operations.

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that many people want to be a leader. But being a leader is not simply having a title, it’s about driving change and positively impacting people with empathy, ambition, and responsibility. With that in mind, I made the most of different societies available at the University of Edinburgh and this has become the foundation for me to be able to influence change in communities.

What key things that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

The vital personal development tools and mentoring opportunities offered by the Business School enabled me to design my career goals and build an action plan. I continue to use these tools today.

Course highlights and advice

What are your best memories on the programme?

Visiting Lufthansa Cargo Mexico and learning more about the operation of preparing a flight. That then led to the opportunity to do my dissertation in this area and strengthen the relationship with Lufthansa Cargo.

Another highlight was getting to support local medical centres in Mexico where I was able to contribute to the global effort.

These opportunities helped me to understand that the role of a data analyst/scientist goes further than just analysing. It means positively impacting my community and the industry I'm passionate about.

What one piece of advice would you give to current students and recent graduates?

One of the key things I advise is to get a university or industry mentor during your studies. A mentor is someone who has been in your shoes and can share their experiences and open opportunities.