Mais Khader

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it?
The Middle East region is witnessing drastic change as businesses are becoming more aware of the important developments in technology and data science. We are in the phase of understanding the huge potential of utilising data properly and how it can transform the way we solve crucial problems in the region. As a previous Assistant Manager in business data analytics at EY and PwC consulting, I had witnessed firsthand how the use of modern data analysis techniques is growing in demand in the region. My role allowed me to play a key role in multiple high-profile and impactful projects around the Middle East. I worked alongside industry experts and subject matter experts and enabled them to better utilise data and analytics to provide better advice and solve business problems. 

My experience in consulting made me realise how important modern data analytics techniques in solving pivotal problems that we have in the region, and this is why I chose to pursue a Masters in Business Analytics. This course opened my eyes to real life applications of data science and AI to solve various business problems. 

In my country, there are a lot of business experts, and the experts in data analytics are growing in number by year, but what’s truly missing in our country is people who can speak both business and data analytics. What drew my attention to this course at the University of Leeds specifically, is that the programme is also focused on the study of the decision sciences and decision-making tools and the connection of it with Business and Data Analytics as a powerful tool that provides actionable insights for decision makers. 

What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most about your course?
The University of Leeds has provided an exceptional learning experience. The constant reflection on different industry experiences and real business problems was incredibly helpful in making the best out of the programme and being able to utilise the knowledge gained effectively.

What was your impression/experience of the student union, the city of Leeds and Yorkshire? Did you do any extracurricular activities during your studies? How did you enhance your personal development? What would you recommend to future students?
I loved the diverse environment of the University and the city. I never felt like a stranger! The community was generally open and welcoming which was quite pivotal, especially with the multiple challenges enforced by the Coronavirus pandemic and lockdowns and through online learning. I also found that the data science communities in the University were a great networking opportunity that helped me in meeting like-minded people who have similar interests and contributed greatly to my overall experience. 

How did your experiences at Leeds University Business School help you to advance your career?
The knowledge that I’ve gained from my course is constantly helping me in my role as a product owner of data analytics in the automotive sector, keeping me focused on both the business and technical aspects of my projects, empowering me to use data to answer important questions, and helping me to have a constant balance between my technical and business acumen. 

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights? I moved to Germany after finishing the MSc, where I found my course advantageous to enter the European market. 

What are your ambitions for the future?
I have been part of community service programmes for almost eight years and have led and taken part in multiple initiatives and voluntary programmes in charity and education around Jordan that have impacted more than 200,000 individuals. This experience made me believe that we are a country with talented youth and a lot of resources that are not utilised properly. My country is missing the right people in the right places, and I want to use my growing knowledge in the business analytics field to provide expertise in my country that can guide our stakeholders to make informative decisions that use our resources and talents. 

What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in a similar role or industry to you?
The business analytics field is constantly changing and growing with innovative technologies, new tools, pioneering philosophies, agile management styles, etc. There is a lot to learn and will always be. I believe that it is important to constantly develop yourself to keep growing in this field and to chase a successful career in it. 

What is your defining memory of studying here? Would you recommend the Business School to others? Studying in the business school has increased my confidence in my abilities and expanded my horizons. The business analytics programme is offered by multiple Business Schools but I believe that there are multiple advantages to studying this course at Leeds as it not only develops your technical data science and analytics skills but it also helps you to use data analytics to provide actionable insights, deeply understand business challenges, and to make informative decisions. 

What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds?
Explore Leeds, its culture, and the county in general. Yorkshire is a culture-rich place and has a wonderful landscape. Don’t limit yourself to your comfort circles; expand your international network, and try to meet people from different majors and cultures, exchange food recipes and traditions and be sure to stay in touch with your new network after your studies.