Mark Lubkoll

Current Employer/Organisation Name

infodas, an Airbus Cyber & IT subsidiary.

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

I continue to do my job as of today, but I have been giving greater scope to help expanding our ongoing internationalisation since leaving Exeter. My job entails leading the sales operations and bid management function for the whole company and adapting our processes, tools, internal workings to the needs of increased international business.

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

I chose this career because it is giving me a sense of purpose. Working in the cybersecurity and aerospace sector means to me that I can contribute with my skills and know-how to shape the best possible offering to our clients in this segment to make the world a little bit safer amidst increased cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities.

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

I enjoyed most the content and the pace of my programme which are all highly relevant to today’s business needs and challenges, in particular sustainability, responsible leadership, and cross-cultural management.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

The people I was able to study with and formed closed relationships, even though this was an online programme!

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I chose Exeter because of its strong international reputation and global outlook. The flexibility of the programme also gave me the opportunity to continue developing my intellectual curiosity while balancing my professional and personal responsibilities.

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

I was able to use the experiences and the learnings throughout the programme in my daily work; for instance, the content about responsible leadership and cross-cultural management have been useful as our company has not been exposed to many international markets yet. But in order to facilitate the growth of our international business, it does require change from within: the way we work, the way we understand foreign customers, and so forth. I have been able to contribute to this change process in my function already in various leadership workshops.

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

Know your ‘why’ and what motivates you. Don’t chase titles or positions but ask yourself how you can contribute and expose yourself to new challenges. Have an open and curious mindset and be willing to learn new things.

What are your plans for the future?

My immediate goal is to continue growing in my current position and broadening my leadership and commercial responsibilities. In the medium term, I hope to gain greater international exposure and potentially pursue an opportunity to work in another country.