Ben Uphill

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Sibelco

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I am still in the same business, although promoted to Director Operations. Have gone through a good growth period in the business, some restructuring and large capital projects. More engagement with the Institute of Quarrying, have been deputy chair since September 2022, two year post before Chair and then President.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

Have been in the engineering, quarrying, minerals industry all my career, either direct or indirect. Lots of variety in the role, can help, guide and mentor my team with experience.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

The range of subjects, learning about myself and expanding my vision on multiple levels.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

Location, staff and cohorts.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

The MBA program.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Many, but Industry 4.0, marketing, consultancy project, leadership, confidence.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

There are many entries into the industry, where you start, does not mean where you go and develop.

What are your plans for the future?

Continue to improve, perhaps pivot into another role, VP, MD etc.