Leaders in Residence event connects students with finance professionals

Students from Leeds University Business School gained valuable insights into careers in accounting, finance and banking at a recent in-curriculum networking event.

The event brought together 29 industry professionals representing our key partners, alumni and Leaders in Residence to meet first-year BSc Accounting and Finance and BSc Banking and Finance students. Through a series of round-table discussions, participants exchanged ideas, explored career opportunities and discussed the realities of working in the finance sector.

The informal and interactive format encouraged open conversation, enabling students to engage with guests from a wide range of organisations and professional backgrounds.

Reflecting on the activity, module leader Joanna Ye said:

"A key aim of the module is to help students understand how their academic studies connect to the world of work. In-module activities like this give students the opportunity to hear directly from professionals, gain insights into different career pathways and develop the commercial awareness and employability skills that are essential for success in the finance sector."

Students welcomed the chance to learn from practitioners working across accounting, banking and consultancy.

One student commented:

"I really enjoyed the round-table discussion. It was valuable to hear real-world experience from industry guests, and I got clear answers to my questions about finance career paths."

The event forms part of the Business School's Leaders in Residence programme [Leaders in Residence | Leeds University Business School | University of Leeds] which connects students with experienced business leaders to help them develop the knowledge, confidence and networks needed to succeed in their future careers.