Haydar Ulus

CEO at Ulus Group, Enfield

BA hons Economics

What made you choose Middlesex University?:

At that time, I could not travel far so, being the nearest university to my family’s home was one of the most important factors.

What course did you study and what attracted you to that course?:

I was involved in a family business from a very young age and it was natural - as economics are at the heart of all businesses - to choose a degree in Economics.

What aspects of your course did you enjoy the most?:

The unique style of teaching and being surrounded by good friends made the subjects really engaging and easy to understand.

What is your fondest memory of Middlesex?:

Travelling from one campus to another was great! Each had a special thing about them such as the country side of Trent Park, the technical Bounds Green Campus and, of course, the entertaining vibe of the Hendon Campus.

What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at Middlesex?:

Whatever you do, do it with passion! If you choose a job you love, you will not work a day in your life.

How did your course and time at Middlesex help you to get where you are professionally today?:

There are two things and two people I will never forget at Middlesex. First is Mr Robert Webb, who one day opened the share pages of the Financial Times and said "now I have taught you the tools of financial analysis, there is a million pound on these pages - find it". Second, Mr Levy, my Microeconomics teacher, who always said "economy is life and life is like chess; you always have to run parallel games to reach your goal".

How did you get your foot on the career ladder post university?:

I went into masters in Investment Management at City University. When I graduated, the twin towers in New York got hit and global financial crisis made it impossible for graduates to step onto the career ladder. For a few years, I helped to grow my father’s shop and restaurant. We then entered the property business, which has grown exponentially. My businesses today comprise of running restaurants, property development, accountancy, and financial technology.

What has been your defining career break of highlight to date?:

Setting up my own fin-tech company, an online digital banking platform for SME businesses.

What are the top three career tips you would give to current students and recent graduates?:

1. Whatever you do, do it with passion. Choose a job you love so that you do not have to work a day in your life.
2. No is not always a no.
3. Do not wait for your turn, make it your turn.

What skills have been most valuable in your career so far and how have you developed these?:

Communication
Communication
Communication
It is important that every aspect of your life and achievement come from hard work and great negotiation skills, which depends on good communication skills.

Are there any tips you can give international students looking to move abroad to study?:

Use your culture to your advantage. Trust me, in this globalised business world you are a step ahead.