Tell us a little about your career background
After earning a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, I began my career in the oil and gas industry as a Mechanical Engineer in Aberdeen, Scotland. Over five years, I gained hands-on experience working both onshore and offshore, across operations, projects, and engineering change.
Before pursuing my MBA, my focus was entirely on engineering execution - I had little exposure to business strategy or the commercial side of the industry. However, I became increasingly curious about the strategic decisions shaping the energy transition and wanted to broaden my skill set beyond technical execution. This drive led me to pursue an MBA, equipping me with the business acumen necessary to make a meaningful impact in the clean energy space.
Turning to your personal career journey, did you know where you wanted to head in your career before your MBA? Did your career plans change while studying on the programme?
When applying for the MBA, I knew I wanted to transition into renewable energy as it felt like the natural next step for someone already working in the energy sector. However, early in the programme, I found myself drawn to the tech industry - excited by its rapid innovation and the potential to drive change.
By the end of the Michaelmas, my career direction became clear. Attending an energy careers event reminded me of my deep connection to the industry, and a climate talk on COP27 (and its lack of progress) reignited my passion for tackling climate change. These events in quick succession brought complete clarity: I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to the energy transition. From then on, I focused on building my network and positioning myself for opportunities that aligned with my mission.
How do you anticipate your MBA experience, and the resources and opportunities at Oxford, will support you on your career-path going forward?
The MBA has given me not only a global mindset but also access to an incredible international network.
Before Oxford, my career was rooted in a local industry, but post-MBA, I’m excited by the possibility of working across borders to tackle the global climate crisis. It’s reassuring to know that wherever my career takes me, I’ll have a network of friends and peers from the MBA community nearby.
For me, one of the most valuable aspects of the MBA has been the ongoing career support. I remember asking my career coach, Madeleine, in September when we would transition to alumni coaching, and she told me, 'I’m here to support you until I retire' and I plan to take her up on that offer!
Having graduated from the MBA, what recommendation would you give to incoming students embarking on their MBA journey?
Now post-MBA, my recommendation is to savour every day. It’s not necessarily the fancy Oxford events and formals. It’s the downtimes with your friends in the evenings at the pub or impromptu conversations you’ll have with classmates during breaks that make a lasting impact and what you’ll miss the most.
Oh, and grow your network! Although it may seem uncomfortable and unnatural at the beginning, these connections can turn into amazing relationships and you’ll be surprised at how eager some people are to help.
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