Accounting and Finance Postgraduate Summer Event Brings Together Students, Alumni and Industry Leaders

Leeds University Business School’s Accounting and Finance Department welcomed postgraduate students, alumni, guest speakers and colleagues to its Postgraduate Summer Event on 19 June 2026.

The event gave students the opportunity to hear first-hand career advice, meet alumni and build connections beyond the classroom.

A highlight of the evening was a fireside chat with Aki Hussain, Group CEO of Hiscox and a Leeds Accounting and Finance alumnus. During the conversation, Aki emphasised the importance of curiosity, problem-solving and continuous learning, particularly as artificial intelligence continues to reshape the workplace.

Students also heard from Sravya Pasumarthy, an MSc Financial Risk Management alumna who now works at Goldman Sachs. Drawing on her experience as an international student, Sravya offered practical advice on internships, graduate recruitment and starting a career in finance.

The evening concluded with dinner, networking and student performances, giving attendees an opportunity to celebrate the end of the academic year together.

Dr Ali Altanlar, Director of Postgraduate Studies- Accounting and Finance Department, said:

Hearing directly from alumni at different stages of their careers gives our students valuable perspectives on the opportunities and challenges ahead. We are grateful to Aki and Sravya for sharing their experiences and advice.

Dr Lu Qiao, Deputy Director of Postgraduate Studies- Accounting and Finance Department, added:

It was a pleasure to bring students, alumni, guest speakers and colleagues together for this event and to see new connections being made. Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make the evening so enjoyable.

The Accounting and Finance Department continues to support students’ professional development by strengthening alumni connections and creating opportunities to engage with industry leaders.