Contracts & Procurement Category Manager, BG Group
MSc Business Information Technology, 2002
What made you choose the Regional Information Technology Institute (RITI) in Cairo?
After graduation, I wanted to continue my education to postgraduate level. I was looking for an institution to study at and a friend of mine introduced me to Middlesex University. Middlesex University has a good reputation in Egypt and the Middle East with its campus in Dubai, the same also applies of RITI. In addition, I always trusted the British education system.
What attracted you to your course and made you apply?
I liked the idea of having a programme that covers management and IT. The content of the course was also exciting.
What aspects of your course did you enjoy most?
The parts of the course that I enjoyed the most were the systems analysis and design aspects. They helped improve my analytical skills and built a systematic or methodical way of thinking.
What were the facilities like at your institution?
It was a joint programme so we were studying in Egypt but the programme was run in a way so that we had had academics coming from Middlesex University in London and institutions in Cairo too. The facilities were ok, we had an IT lab and a library and they also gave us access to a governmental library in Egypt which is the largest of its kind in the country.
What is your fondest memory of life at Middlesex?
The group assignments that we used to do were very exciting as we were working with different people from different cultures and different industries. There was a lot of fun, discussion and arguments.
What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at a Middlesex institution?
Make sure you like what you are doing, plan well and study hard.
How did your course and time at RITI help you get to where you are professionally today?
It helped me learn and develop new skills that are essential for professional and personal growth; skills to work with colleagues and stakeholders, to be aware of other cultures, solving problems and making decisions etc.
And having a Master degree from a reputable university is a big plus on your CV.
What made you choose the industry you work in and what are its pros and cons?
The oil and gas industry is a sector full of opportunities and challenges. A career with no boundaries internationally that affects people's lives.
The pros are high pay, good career prospects, opportunities for career advancement, travel opportunities, and it is an interesting and challenging job.
The cons are that it can be dangerous, you are often away from home and sometimes the working conditions are hard.
How did you get your first foot on the career ladder?
I was well prepared; worked hard on myself and gained new skills. Stayed tuned for a good opportunity and grabbed it. Networking also helped me a lot.
What are the top three tips you would give to current students and recent graduates who are looking for a similar career to yourself?
Understand yourself, identify your personal strengths and weaknesses and work hard on yourself. Set a list of goals and objectives and pursue them constantly. Develop a Professional Network.
What one piece of advice would you give to the 17/18 year old you?
I am happy with what I have achieved so I wouldn't want to change anything. I would just tell myself 'go on your way and get what you want'.