Mohamed Anas Riza

Tell us about your degree - why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it? 
My primary motivation for pursuing the MSc Banking & International Finance program was to deepen my technical knowledge in this dynamic field. I reached a point in my career where I realized that practical experience alone would only take me so far. 

The industry is constantly changing, and I felt the need to equip myself with the latest methodologies backed by rigorous research. Additionally, completing this program qualifies me as a Chartered Banker, further enhancing my credentials and helping me stand out in a continuously evolving marketplace.

What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most about your course?  
The best part of my studies was undoubtedly the friends I made along the way. The program was filled with like-minded students from diverse backgrounds and fields of work, which greatly enriched the learning experience as we navigated this journey together. The course and overall university life were structured in a way that promoted co-learning and socialising beyond the classroom. My classmates became a vital support network throughout this demanding program, and I'm glad to remain connected with them long after graduation. 

Additionally, each module was unique, offering a variety of learning objectives and assessment methods, making every subject both challenging and rewarding. Every lecturer brought something new to the classroom and went the extra mile to ensure that what we learned on paper was supported by real-world applications. This focus on practical application, beyond academic literature, helped me see how I could make immediate impacts upon returning to the workplace.

What was your 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 fell in love with Leeds the moment I arrived. It felt like a second home within a short period, thanks to the wonderful ambassadors from the Student Union who welcomed us during orientation. I was blown away by the number of clubs and societies, that cater to both mainstream and niche interests. While I don’t recall all the clubs I signed up for (and the gift hampers that filled my backpack that afternoon), I found my fit with the Casual Kickabout futsal society. While it wasn't the Premier League, it was certainly enough to tick off playing football in the UK! 

If by any chance you’ve arrived late or missed the fun of orientation, don’t worry- the Student Union always has something going on. My favorite ongoing event was the Global Café, where every Monday you could meet new people and have memorable conversations to distract you from the intensity of daily studies.

How did your experiences at Leeds University Business School help you to advance your career?
When I joined the Business School, my goals were to deepen my understanding of the financial industry, learn from leading academics, and acclimate myself to current trends in banking. By the time I graduated, not only had I achieved these goals, but I also felt a newfound self-confidence in my decision-making abilities. I became the go-to person for my colleagues to help navigate complex problems, and my recommendations were well received by the management team. The content of the MSc program and the skills I acquired along the way put me on a clear path to success and career growth. 

Future students should take full advantage of the optional courses and resources offered by the Business School. In particular, certificates from Bloomberg complement the learning journey, providing practical insights while strengthening your CV. The Business School also has classrooms equipped with Bloomberg terminals, allowing you to apply what you learn. Additionally, the MSc program provides subscriptions to top financial newspapers, helping you stay on top of recent developments in the finance world. By the time I graduated, keeping up with and applying my knowledge felt like second nature- an invaluable asset in the workplace.

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? Have there been any notable highlights?
Just before joining the Business School, I was a Senior Relationship Manager at the Mauritius Commercial Bank. While soft skills were essential for success in that role, my post-graduation goal was to apply my newly acquired technical expertise to move from ‘running’ the Bank to ‘building’ the Bank. Upon my return, my credentials were well-received, and I received an immediate promotion to Business Development Manager. 

It was an exciting time to fulfill that role, as a key competitor was exiting the market. This provided an excellent opportunity to apply what I had learned. I began by ensuring that our sales and marketing efforts were guided by international best practices, with a focus on improved operational efficiency, stronger risk management, and data-driven decision making. By the end of the year, we were on track to becoming the preferred commercial banking partner in the country. 

Today, I am proud to be appointed as Head of Commercial, as I shift my focus to elevating all segments of the bank to a higher level.

What are your ambitions for the future?
The Business School exposed me to a different narrative, showing that the impact of banking and finance can extend far beyond the workplace. The classrooms and lecture theatres were a melting pot of stories from across the world and inspirational ambitions from all corners of the globe—it was hard not to be excited about the future. 

My long-term goal is to apply what I've learned about this industry and banking practices in the UK to help redefine what banking means to the average Maldivian. There is much that could be applied on a national scale to strengthen the financial sector of the Maldives. Ultimately, by combining my knowledge from the MSc program, the shared ideas from my classmates, and my personal passion for promoting financial inclusiveness, I will strive to create a sustainable, equitable, and modern banking future for my nation. 

What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in a similar role or industry to you?
Commercial banking can be a fast-paced environment, requiring you to apply your technical skills and work effectively within a team to achieve organisational objectives. Fortunately, the MSc Banking and International Finance program offers modules that help you develop these essential skills. 

To ensure success, think beyond the lecture theatre and take full advantage of the resources available through the Business School. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in class and rely on your professors for guidance on academically proven strategies that you can apply in your career. Engage with your friends about their international experiences and share your insights. Life-long learning, a curious mindset, and strong people skills are essential to elevate your profile for future employers.

How was the transition to living and studying in a different country? Did the university offer support or services that you found helpful? Can you offer any advice?
It can be a nerve-wracking experience to leave the familiarity of your hometown and move to another country where the language may not be your native tongue. Fortunately, everyone else goes through the same feelings! 

The University provides, either directly or via their partners, plenty of accommodation options to suit your requirements. My choice to live in a location dedicated to postgraduate students was a great decision as it provided the perfect mix. It offered a safe space to recharge, socialize with relatable students, and avoid worrying about typical household management tasks such as utilities and internet, as these were often included in the monthly payments. 

Before starting your Leeds journey, my advice is to proactively find your preferred living arrangements through the supportive links provided by the Business School. This way, you can focus on excelling academically by the time you arrive.

What is your defining memory of studying here? Would you recommend the Business School to others?
The University spoils you with choices of where to study, with each building having its own unique quirks. The views of the beautiful campus are unbeatable in any weather- rain, shine, or snow. Whether you prefer to study alone on some of the comfortable sofas overlooking the greenery, or in one of the several bookable study spaces alongside friends, the Business School always has something on offer. And when you're done, your choice of coffee is just next door and the city is just a walk away. 

One of my fondest memories was in one of those spaces a day before my final exam, when my study group got together for one last revision session. I remember how fast my nervous heart was beating as I took the bus to the Parkinson steps, wondering how best to prepare for the big day. Meeting my friends and going through the materials left me feeling at ease. It was a moment of reflective joy as our anxious fidgets turned into bursts of smiles, knowing that this journey we had taken was almost at its end. While bittersweet, it made me grateful to have had this experience, which I know I’ll always cherish long beyond walking out of the Great Hall for the last time. 

Choosing Leeds University Business School is highly recommended for an unforgettable experience.

What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time in Leeds?
Always be on the lookout for opportunities beyond the classroom. Twelve months may seem like a long time, but it will fly by quickly. One of the best experiences for me was applying for and being selected for the annual study tour. I was part of the group that visited the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management in Germany, which included a week-long series of stimulating lectures, industry visits, and exciting excursions. The city of Leeds is also perfectly situated for day trips to nearby attractions or longer trips across the UK.