Majid AlKhulaify
Current Employer/Organisation Name
Aramco
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
Since graduating, I have dedicated my efforts to advancing my career in business development, nurturing my entrepreneurial aspirations, and writing for local newspapers as a columnist. Additionally, I have had the privilege of serving as the MBA Global Ambassador for the Middle-East region at the University of Exeter, where I continue to be actively engaged with prospective students.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
I chose a career in business development because it allows me to combine my passion for innovation, communication, and entrepreneurship while supporting the local economy. I find great satisfaction in identifying new opportunities, developing businesses, and fostering partnerships that drive growth and success for the organization. What I enjoy most about my work in business development is the dynamic nature of the role. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, adapt, and think creatively. It is worth mentioning that after completing my MBA, I made a conscious decision to transition into a different career path. While I had previously been engaged in a different area of work, the transformative experience of earning my MBA instilled in me a fresh mindset, placing emphasis on seeking a professional journey that would allow me to unleash my innovative spirit, maximize my productivity, and align with my entrepreneurial interests.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
I admire the concept of the MBA Consultancy Project. It offers a unique approach that enables students to showcase their learning and abilities in challenging real-life positions as consultants for major companies and organizations. Personally, I found my experience to be greatly enhanced by this opportunity, as it sharpened my skills and understanding. In my opinion, this aspect of the program is one of its strongest features, as it seamlessly combines practical experience with the application of knowledge. For me, it was the biggest highlight of the program.
What did you enjoy most about studying here?
At Exeter, I thrived in a culture that celebrated creativity and authenticity. The incredible support of the MBA administration team and the abundant resources provided by the university empowered me to express myself fully. This environment fueled innovation in my projects and presentations, while allowing me to embrace my unique individuality and creativity.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
The University of Exeter and its MBA program consistently receive global acclaim, high rankings, and prestigious accolades, which I perceived to be reflective of the university’s commitment to excellence. Exeter also had a great reputation as a top choice for international students and families, being known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, vibrant community, and convenient walkability with essential amenities nearby. It offered excellent connectivity and transportation options, allowing residents to easily explore the city and wider UK. Those factors made it seem to me that Exeter was the optimal choice for my MBA journey – and it was!
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
Developing a resilient mindset is crucial for personal growth, success, and a fulfilling life. During my MBA studies, many guest lecturers were actual successful entrepreneurs who shared invaluable insights on resilience drawn from their experiences. Their stories taught me that resilience involves embracing change, adapting, and maintaining a growth mindset. Moreover, failure should be seen as an opportunity for growth, and setbacks viewed as stepping stones to success. Cultivating resilience continuously enables me to overcome challenges with determination and grace, navigating life more effectively. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships and projects, as well as networking and building professional relationships, all proved to be invaluable to my career.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
Embrace curiosity and thirst for knowledge. Be open to new ideas, and always look for the positive in any situation (or in my case – business ideas and pitches!). For current University of Exeter students, I would advice you to treasure your time there as a unique opportunity for personal growth that is shaping your future. It is a great opportunity to engage with faculty members and expert entrepreneurs, there’s a lot of supporting platforms where you can acquire knowledge from, such as the Centre for Entrepreneurship, and the Student Startups team. I also encourage all students to stay inspired and make their Exeter experience a transformative and unforgettable one filled with curiosity, knowledge, and a commitment to maximizing your time there.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan to advance my career and start my own business, aiming to have a meaningful impact in my field as an entrepreneur. I also plan to continue my education in the future, and of course, Exeter would be my preferred choice as I found its academic environment, research opportunities, and community perfectly match what I look forward to in my next academic journey.
