David Vazquez

Current Employer/Organisation Name

London Luton Airport (AENA group)

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

I’ve studied the Exeter MBA whilst working as Head of Sustainability for an international transport group with 30,000. Upon completion of the MBA, I’ve transitioned into Head of Sustainability for London Luton airport, where I developed a 2040 strategy with a detailed Capex and Opex investment roadmap to reach Net Zero by 2040, which is my current role

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

My passion for sustainability comes from suffering climate crisis first hand with 77,000 tonnes of oil spilled in the coastline near my hometown when I was a teenager. My life goal became to lead positive transformational change within forward looking organisations. Being in a position where I can challenge the status quo and make positive changes is what I enjoy the most about my work

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

I enjoyed understanding Sustainability and Business from a 360 perspective. My highlights are the leadership courses and in particular an international leadership course abroad, and an executive coaching session which helped me better understand my leadership style. The variety of modules and assignments developing consultancy projects for private, public and non-profit clients. These included working with IBM to develop AI business solutions and scenario modelling and financial valuation for mergers and acquisitions

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

The University offers a wide range of activities, with the Historic Quayside only a short walk away

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

It’s the best MBA with a focus on Sustainability

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

360 understanding of Sustainability and Business which allowed me to influence the work of other departments across the business, as well as a better understand my leadership style and the leader I’d like to become

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

Be curious to understand the material issues of your business and challenge the status quo in order to improve them

What are your plans for the future?

To continue to develop as a leader so my work positively impacts the lives of people