Ust Oldfield

Current Employer/Organisation Name

Advancing Analytics

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

Since leaving Exeter, I created a job for myself as a data analyst in a marketing company using the skills that I had developed while studying history – quantitative analysis. I was then fortunate to find a role as an analyst in the music industry, analysing consumer behaviour and making recommendations to artists and management about consumer preferences.

I then had an opportunity to join a consultancy, where I was doing the same as I was doing in the music industry but across industries. While I was there I grew more general data skills, as well as refining the softer skills such as understanding a complex problem and being able to provide a solution and associated strategy – and I was promoted several times over the 5 years I was there.

I had a break from consulting to join a global fashion house as the Head of Business Intelligence. When COVID hit, a lot of the interesting projects and transformational work paused and I realised that I was missing consulting.

I’ve been with Advancing Analytics for almost 5 years – I’ve created and grown a consulting practice from scratch, as well as led some novel organisational transformations.

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

I didn’t choose this career; it is something that I stumbled into. I considered the more traditional routes that one might consider with a history degree: teaching, civil service, academia, etc. but they didn’t feel like a good fit. Consulting isn’t the perfect fit, but it’s good enough for now as I get to enjoy what I do: solving problems, and helping others realise that they are the solution to some problems.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

I was part of Labour Students and the Rowing Society.

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

The programme was very structured and gave me a breadth of interest. Being able to study maritime history as well as political history was fun and gave me the skills and confidence to succeed in my first roles.

What did you most enjoy about studying here?

Making lifelong friends and additional study in the Ram. I also met my wife through friends I made at Exeter – so definitely a worthwhile experience.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

I wanted to continue studying after my bachelors and I know Exeter well. Both my parents studied at Exeter, and I grew up in the area.

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

1) Analytical approach and skills. Is the information I’m seeing correct? How can I corroborate it? What’s missing?

2) Bringing multiple disciplines into the problem space to find a solution

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

Stay curious.