Norah Odwesso

Country: Kenya
Sector: Food & Beverage
Job title: Senior Director, Social Impact
Subject of study: Finance and Investment
Year of graduation: 1996
Type/Level of study: Postgraduate Taught

Current Employer/Organisation Name

The Coca-Cola Company

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

Since leaving Exeter, I have worked for several multinational blue chip organizations, and currently work at The Coca-Cola Company, as Senior Director, Social Impact. I am based in Atlanta, GA.

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

I am passionate about the work that I lead in Sustainability, and believe that I deliver value and bring positive change in the lives of our communities through social impact. I enjoy working with teams to drive responsible business and building reputation.

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

I enjoyed the learning and insights I obtained in Corporate Finance and Investment studies, and the possibility of becoming a qualified Fund manager, particularly in an emerging economy such as the one I am from. For me the biggest highlight was the cutting edge knowledge and course content that we as students were exposed to at the time. I believe that this contributed to my being considered as great talent for employment, not only in my country but in any country around the world.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

Exeter is an international university of incredibly high repute. I enjoyed meeting several students from various backgrounds and countries around the world. The university provided me with an opportunity to study in a highly diverse, multicultural environment, which I truly enjoyed being in.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I was admitted to the University of Exeter as a Chevening Scholar. The University offered me the course that I was keen to undertake, given my career ambitions at that point in time. I was also looking to study in a top ranking highly reputable international university, and Exeter provided me that opportunity.

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

Development of Business acumen, Making the right investment decisions for a company and an understanding of multicultural awareness.

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

I would say be clear about what you really want to pursue and why. The career I am in now (Sustainability) is an evolving career and space, with great opportunities for growth in the future.

What are your plans for the future?

I am keen to broaden my knowledge and expertise in the Sustainability space, and work with companies to drive responsible business practices.

 

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