Lyufei Huang

Tell us about your degree – why did you choose it? What elements of the degree inspired you to study it?
In terms of both teaching quality and industry relevance, the content of the IB program is outstanding. Most courses are taught and analyzed through real-world industry cases, allowing us to apply theories in practice and develop a strong methodological approach. Each course in IB is unique, fostering different dimensions of international business and encouraging us to view issues from multiple perspectives.

Additionally, the diverse student body, with peers from all corners of the globe, adds an invaluable international dimension to the coursework. This exposure has given me the opportunity to learn about cultures I otherwise wouldn’t have encountered—an essential skill in today’s globalized world. The breadth of knowledge I’ve gained across various fields has also helped me refine my career interests, clarifying which areas I want to pursue and which I might steer away from in the future.

During my IB studies at Leeds, I enriched my understanding of business through group case studies, individual presentations, entrepreneurship seminars, and engaging discussions with like-minded peers at public lectures. The program provided ample opportunities to showcase our academic achievements, and the strong emphasis on communication skills has been invaluable for my professional growth.

Thanks to the IB program, my understanding of international business has never been sharper. I now have a clear grasp of how businesses operate, and the solid foundation laid by my studies continues to support my career development.

What was the best part of your studies here? What did you enjoy the most about your course?
The tutors in the IB program have incredibly strong industry connections, and I experienced this firsthand. In March 2021, the IB department invited Dr. Zhan Xiaoning, the President of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), to deliver a lecture for our major.

During that session, I had the opportunity to ask him about the challenges facing the global supply chain during COVID-19. It was an unforgettable moment to have someone of his stature, frequently featured in international news, directly answer my question. Following the session, I learned about job opportunities at the United Nations, and my tutor even expressed willingness to recommend me for an internship at UNCTAD in Geneva, possibly within Dr. Zhan’s team.

This was a rare and invaluable opportunity, but due to the pandemic and personal reasons, I ultimately chose to return to work in Shanghai. If given another chance, I would definitely participate in such events again to broaden my horizons. Studying at the University of Leeds truly felt like standing on the shoulders of giants, giving me a broader perspective on the world.

What was your impression of the student union, the city of Leeds, and Yorkshire? Did you engage in any extracurricular activities?
I absolutely adore Leeds—I can confidently say it’s my second home.

The city is full of fascinating places to explore. From artistic havens like museums and galleries to modern shopping malls, Leeds offers something for everyone. Whenever I had free time, I loved heading to the park with friends for a picnic under the sunny skies. Leeds seamlessly blends historic charm with modern convenience, making it easy for everyone to find a lifestyle that suits them.

On a broader note, Yorkshire is a breathtaking region with picturesque, serene towns surrounding Leeds. The city also has excellent transportation links, with the train station conveniently located in the city center. Whether heading north or south, there are frequent trains to take you wherever you need to go.

How did your experiences at Leeds University Business School help you advance your career?
The IB program has laid a solid foundation for my career development. Core courses such as Innovation and Globalization, International Strategic Management, and Strategies for Entering Foreign Markets provided me with a deep understanding of global economic dynamics and corporate governance. I have been able to apply this knowledge in my current role, helping Chinese enterprises expand internationally, navigate different markets, and address complex international business challenges.

My job requires a high level of responsibility and self-motivation, as I need to accurately identify problems and propose solutions. This ability is closely linked to the logical and critical thinking skills I developed through the IB courses at Leeds. The instructors, all experts with years of industry experience, not only guided me academically but also provided invaluable career advice. Studying here made me feel like I was engaging with some of the brightest minds in the field.

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School?
I currently work for NIO, a leading company in China’s new energy vehicle industry, where I am responsible for products and strategies related to vehicle asset operations.

My role involves conducting in-depth industry analysis to support the development and execution of asset strategies. Additionally, I focus on building digital processes within my department and across the company, driving the intelligent transformation of internal systems used by different teams. This work enhances operational efficiency and improves the user experience for various app modules.

A major part of my role is planning the overall digitalization and intelligence of collaborative office work. I analyze specific business processes, identify the intersection between business and digital systems, refine business workflows, and develop scalable implementation plans to ensure seamless integration between company needs and technological solutions.

What are your ambitions for the future?
I aspire to become an industry expert, enabling Chinese enterprises to establish a strong foothold in the global economy while contributing to a more interconnected and sustainable business world.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to work in a similar role or industry?
Beyond academics, I highly recommend gaining practical experience through internships. Internships allow you to apply what you’ve learned in university, giving you a clearer understanding of the career paths available to you. They also help you determine the types of roles and work environments you enjoy—or don’t enjoy. This trial-and-error phase is crucial in shaping your long-term career decisions.

What would you say is your defining memory of studying here? Would you recommend the Business School to others?
Looking back, I realize that what Leeds has given me extends far beyond academic knowledge—it has instilled in me a spirit of exploration and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. I want to pass on this spirit to future students, encouraging them to chase their dreams with confidence at the University of Leeds. No matter where life takes you, be proud of being a Leeds graduate and use what you’ve learned to give back to society, creating a brighter future for all.

What advice would you give to students to help them get the most out of their time at Leeds?
Make full use of the university’s resources, including career guidance, further education opportunities, and lifestyle support services. The University of Leeds offers a robust and comprehensive career development program, including resume editing services, interview coaching, and job search assistance. Seeking help from these resources can be incredibly beneficial as you transition from university to the professional world.