Mary Iyere is a Management Consultant at Capco; a global technology and business management consultancy. Mary tells us more about her time at ULMS and her advice to graduates transitioning from university to the professional world.
What does your role involve and what is a typical workday like?
I am currently employed as Management Consultant at Capco. I joined the company in 2022 through its Associate Talent Programme - an 18-month entry-level programme designed to provide individuals with first-hand experience in the FS industry.
I work on client change management and strategy projects across Tier-1 Global banks. My day-to-day depends on the project and client needs.
Currently, I work within the capacity of a Business Analyst, gathering business and user requirements to translate into technical documentation for the development team, preparing and delivering presentations, reports, and other deliverables to present findings, recommendations, and progress updates to clients, which often requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing priorities
How did your time as a student prepare you for your current role?
I worked as both an International Student Ambassador and a Project Intern during my studies, implementing approved university recommendations and issuing revised instructions on a case-by-case basis, as well as, initiating regular cadence with the leadership at the Liverpool City Region (LCR) Combined Authority, jointly identifying opportunities to improve the city region, respectively.
These opportunities helped me put into practice various management concepts, methodologies, and frameworks and build strong stakeholder management skills.
My student experience allowed me to develop strong analytical skills, which have helped me in analysing complex business problems, conducting research, and interpreting data to provide meaningful insights to clients.
Overall, my time as a student provided me with a strong academic foundation, practical skills, and a mindset that is well-aligned with the demands of the management consulting profession.
Why did you choose the University of Liverpool Management School?
I had considered a few other universities and programmes before applying to the University of Liverpool Management School (ULMS).
However, I knew being a part of ULMS was an opportunity to be part of a reputable Russell Group institution that would give me access to a high standard of education and access to a vast network of alumni, industry professionals, and potential employers.
I carefully crafted an application in 2020 after hearing about UoL in 2018, landing me the ULMS Future Leaders Masters Scholarship. These networking opportunities have been valuable for building connections, exploring career options, and gaining insights into the industry.
What was your best experience while studying your course at the University of Liverpool?
One of my best experiences while studying at ULMS was participating and presenting my major thesis at the 9th International Conference for Contemporary Marketing Issues (ICCMI).
I was given an opportunity to also publish my paper in the 58th Volume of the International Journal of Contemporary Management (IJCM), allowing me to apply my knowledge of conducting extensive research and analysis to gather insights.
This knowledge has been highly valuable to my work as a consultant when gathering data and insights for client projects, enabling me to provide evidence-based recommendations
Do you have any top tips to share with future and current students to help them make the most of University?
Everyone’s university journey is unique, so my first tip would be to make choices that align with your passions, and goals.
Be open to new opportunities and make the most of the resources available either through actively engaging with professors and fellow students - this can provide valuable guidance and networking opportunities while connecting with peers can lead to lasting friendships and potential collaborations.
Finally, regularly reflect on your experiences, challenges, and achievements. Assess your progress towards your goals and make adjustments if needed.
Embrace opportunities for personal growth and continuous learning, allowing your university experience to shape you into a well-rounded individual.
Finally, what advice do you have for final-year ULMS students who will soon become new graduates?
Congratulations to final-year ULMS students on reaching this milestone! Here is some advice to help you transition from university to the professional world as a new graduate:
- Graduating from university does not mark the end of your learning journey. Embrace a growth mindset and commit to lifelong learning. Stay updated with industry trends, attend relevant workshops or seminars, and consider certifications or further education to enhance your knowledge and skills. The ability to adapt and learn will be crucial as you navigate your career
- Remember to enjoy the process and celebrate your achievements along the way. Graduating from university is a significant accomplishment, and the start of your professional journey is an exciting time. Embrace new challenges, be open to learning opportunities, and stay curious as you embark on this next chapter of your life.
- Best of luck in your future endeavours as new graduates! Trust in your abilities, stay proactive and seize the opportunities that come your way.