Pawan Patil

Why did you choose to study this degree? 

My undergraduate studies in Electrical Engineering developed my analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a structured approach to tackling challenges. However, I wanted to complement this technical foundation with a deeper understanding of business strategy, international markets, and the decision-making processes of global organisations.  

The MSc International Business programme represented an opportunity to combine my technical mindset with strategic business knowledge. What particularly inspired me about the programme was its global approach and focus on understanding real-world business challenges. Learning about international strategy, market expansion, and the complexities of operating across different countries and cultures helped me develop a broader view of how businesses function beyond individual departments. 

What did you enjoy most about your course? 

I particularly enjoyed how the course connected academic theories with practical application. The use of case studies, discussions, and practical examples helped me understand how organisations approach international expansion, strategic decision-making, and complex business problems.  

Another highlight was my dissertation, where I developed a US market entry strategy for Itecho Health Ltd. This gave me the opportunity to apply the concepts and frameworks from the programme to real life.  

What did you enjoy most about student life at Leeds? 

I enjoyed exploring Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region. The city offered the perfect balance between being vibrant and student-friendly while also providing opportunities to experience the natural beauty of Yorkshire. Exploring different places, meeting new people, and experiencing local culture helped me become more independent and confident.  

What professional skills and experience did you gain? 

My time at Leeds University Business School helped me develop a combination of strategic, analytical, and interpersonal skills that have become fundamental throughout my career. Coming from an Electrical Engineering background, I already had a structured approach to problem-solving, but the MSc International Business programme helped me understand how those skills could be applied within a wider business context.  

I developed stronger capabilities in strategic analysis, research, presenting recommendations, and understanding how organisations operate in complex international environments.  

How has your career progressed since leaving the Business School? 

I have built my career within supply chain and operations, gaining experience across logistics, e-commerce fulfilment, inventory management, and retail operations. My journey after Leeds began with GXO Logistics, where I gained valuable experience in a fast-paced supply chain environment and developed a practical understanding of logistics operations, process discipline, and the importance of delivering reliable service in complex supply networks.  

I then progressed into an Operations Coordinator role with HBL International, where I worked in an e-commerce fulfilment environment, supporting order management, process improvements, and operational performance. Currently, I work as an Operations Team Lead at AS Watson, supporting stock control and replenishment operations within the retail environment. In this role, I work with inventory processes, operational systems, data, and teams to improve availability and support efficient store operations.  

What are your ambitions for the future? 

My ambitions for the future are centered around becoming a business leader who can drive improvements within global organisations. In the long term, I aspire to become a Chief Operating Officer (COO), leading large-scale supply chain and operational transformations within the FMCG, retail, or consumer-focused sectors.