I aspire to leave a lasting legacy that contributes to a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for generations to come

Sameer Zama Khan wearing graduating robes.
Sameer Zama Khan
Postgraduate alumnus
MBA
2023
Sameer Zama Khan completed The Sheffield MBA in 2023, after moving to Sheffield from India. He has now started working as the Strategic Marketing Manager at Airbag Disposal UK, part of Vantage Waste Solutions.
Sameer Zama Khan wearing graduating robes.

The Triple Crown accreditation was a significant factor in my decision to study at Sheffield University Management School

The Management School holds accreditation from three of the most respected international accreditation bodies: AMBA (Association of MBAs), EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System), and AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). This Triple Crown accreditation reflects the School's commitment to academic excellence, rigorous standards, and continuous improvement, giving me confidence in the quality of education I would receive.

Furthermore, being a member of the prestigious Russell Group, comprising only 24 leading research-intensive universities in the UK, further validated my decision to study at Sheffield University Management School. This affiliation meant that I would have access to high-calibre, research-active academics who are at the forefront of their fields, providing me with cutting-edge insights and knowledge.

The emphasis on practical learning and real-world application also caught my attention

The programme's focus on three core pillars - Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Consultancy - promised a well-rounded education that would equip me with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in a dynamic business environment.

Additionally, the vibrant student community and renowned student union at the University of Sheffield were appealing aspects of campus life. Being recognised as having the best student union in the UK indicated a supportive and inclusive environment where students could thrive both academically and socially.

Image of Sheffield University Students Union

My degree has been instrumental in preparing me for my current role, particularly in the field of marketing

Through my academic journey, I've gained a comprehensive understanding of marketing principles, strategies, and practices which have directly translated into my ability to excel in my role. The research-based learnings from my degree have equipped me with the ability to conduct in-depth market research, analyse data, and draw actionable insights. In my current role, I regularly leverage these research skills to inform marketing strategies, identify emerging trends, and measure campaign effectiveness.

Presentation skills are essential in any marketing role, and my degree provided ample opportunities to enhance this skill set. From group presentations to individual pitches, I learned how to confidently present ideas, articulate key points, and engage with stakeholders effectively. These presentation skills have proven invaluable in my current role, where I regularly pitch marketing strategies to clients and present campaign results to internal teams.

The university's inclusive environment and supportive academic staff created a conducive atmosphere for learning and personal growth. Whether it was engaging in stimulating discussions in class, collaborating on group projects, or participating in extracurricular activities, I always felt encouraged to explore my interests and pursue my passions.

The Marketing Consultancy Challenge was a great opportunity to build practical experience

One of the most valuable aspects of my degree was the opportunity to engage in live projects related to marketing. These projects provided hands-on experience in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. By working on these projects, I learned how to analyse market trends, identify target audiences, and develop effective marketing campaigns. This practical experience gave me a solid foundation in marketing fundamentals, which I now leverage in my role on a daily basis.

My involvement in the marketing consultancy project during my degree gave me firsthand experience in working with real clients to solve marketing challenges. This experience taught me how to collaborate with team members, manage client expectations, and deliver high-quality solutions within set deadlines. These project management and client-facing skills have been essential in my role, where I often collaborate with cross-functional teams and manage various projects simultaneously.

Working for the Management School as a Content Creator was also valuable experience

I had the opportunity to serve as a Content Creator at the Management School. This role allowed me to hone my creative skills and develop content that effectively communicated key messages to diverse audiences. Whether it was writing blog posts, designing social media graphics, or producing videos, this experience helped me refine my communication skills and learn how to tailor content to different platforms and audiences.

During my time at the University of Sheffield, I made use of various support services and facilities

The Employability Hub was instrumental in helping me polish my CV and navigate the job market. Their guidance on CV writing and interview preparation boosted my confidence and helped me secure job opportunities.

The 301 Skills Centre offered fantastic academic writing classes, which significantly improved my writing skills and academic performance. I learned how to structure essays effectively and received constructive feedback that helped me excel in my coursework.

I also found great support from the Students Union, where I engaged in volunteering activities to enhance my profile. This not only allowed me to give back to the community but also equipped me with valuable skills valued by employers.

Sheffield truly felt like a home away from home

One of the things I enjoyed most was the vibrant student community and the welcoming atmosphere of the city. Sheffield truly felt like a home away from home, with its friendly locals, diverse culture, and bustling energy. Whether it was exploring the charming streets of the city centre, attending cultural events, or simply hanging out with friends in one of the many cosy cafes, there was always something exciting to do and new people to meet.

Sheffield's stunning natural beauty and green spaces were a constant source of joy and inspiration for me. From the picturesque Peak District just a stone's throw away to the tranquil parks scattered throughout the city, I cherished the opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.

A road winding through the Peak District as the sun rises.

My role as Strategic Marketing Manager allows me to play a pivotal role in shaping and executing marketing strategies

Currently, I hold the position of Strategic Marketing Manager at Airbag Disposal. I play a pivotal role in shaping and executing marketing strategies to drive business growth and enhance brand visibility. In this role, I collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop comprehensive marketing plans aligned with organisational objectives and market trends. I oversee market research initiatives, competitor analysis, and customer segmentation to identify key opportunities and areas for differentiation.

Additionally, I lead the development of marketing campaigns and initiatives across various channels, including digital marketing, social media, and content creation. I work closely with creative teams to ensure consistent messaging and branding, while also leveraging data analytics to measure campaign effectiveness and optimise performance.

My role as a Strategic Marketing Manager allows me to utilise my skills in business development, sales, and strategic planning to drive results and achieve organisational goals. It's a dynamic and challenging position that continuously pushes me to innovate and adapt to evolving market trends and consumer preferences. I'm excited about the opportunities ahead and committed to making a meaningful impact in my role.

My plan for the future is to embark on an entrepreneurial journey and create something of my own that adds value to society

I am passionate about making a positive impact and contributing to the betterment of communities, and I believe that starting my own venture is the best way to achieve this goal. While the path of entrepreneurship may come with its challenges and uncertainties, I am committed to embracing the journey with resilience, creativity, and perseverance. I plan to surround myself with a supportive network of mentors, advisors, and collaborators who can provide guidance and support as I navigate the entrepreneurial landscape.

Ultimately, my goal is to build a successful and sustainable business that not only generates profits but also creates positive social and environmental impact. Whether it's through innovative products, services, or business models, I aspire to leave a lasting legacy that contributes to a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for generations to come.