MBA Alumni Experience
Meet Our Queen’s MBA Alumni
Discover the stories behind the success of our Queen’s MBA graduates.
Read about their experiences during the MBA, where their journeys have taken them since, and how the programme has shaped their careers and ambitions.
From career changers to industry leaders, our alumni share how the Queen’s MBA equipped them with the skills, confidence, and network to make an impact, wherever their path has led.
Valerie McConville, Chief Executive of CO3, reflects on how pursuing her MBA at Queen’s University Belfast transformed her confidence, leadership, and career proving it’s never too late to learn, grow, and invest in yourself.
David Branagh, Founder & CEO of Raidmed, shares how the Queen’s MBA equipped him to move from engineering to entrepreneurship, building strategic, financial, and governance skills that now drive his med-tech venture.
Dominique Smith reflects on how earning her MBA at Queen’s University Belfast broadened her perspective, built lifelong friendships, and shaped her career journey from hospitality to corporate leadership at MassMutual.
Niraj Kumar Singh, now a Project Manager at Oracle, reflects on how the Queen’s MBA transformed his career, shifting his focus from project delivery to strategic leadership. The programme enhanced his global perspective and decision making.
From early roots in agri-food to leading Corporate Affairs at Asda, Joe McDonald credits the Queen’s MBA with sharpening his strategic mindset and leadership skills preparing him to navigate major challenges and advance confidently in his career.
For Marie Claire Reid, Managing Director of TST Group, the Queen’s MBA was a game-changer, equipping her with the strategic, financial, and leadership skills to grow a one-truck start-up into a leading transport business employing over 400 people.
Kruthika Krishnamurthy, Cost Assurance Analyst at Virgin Media O2, chose the Queen’s MBA for its practical focus and strong industry alignment, gaining leadership, strategic, and decision-making skills, alongside a powerful global network.
Ananda Mitra, Associate VP at Nuvama Asset Services, leveraged the Queen’s MBA for international exposure, global networking, and hands-on consultancy experience, gaining insights into corporate strategy, client needs, and skills required to succeed.
For Jarek Zasadzinski, Director of Operations at Greiner Packaging, the Queen’s MBA was more than a degree,it was a turning point. The programme’s intensity, collaboration, and leadership focus empowered him to grow, adapt, and lead with purpose.
From telecoms to academia, Meghan Van Portfliet’s journey shows how an MBA can transform a career. Her Queen’s MBA experience opened global doors, leading her from business to teaching and research that has taken her worldwide.
Hilary Tuohy shares how completing her MBA at Queen’s University Belfast opened global opportunities, helping her secure a role with AIB in New York, transforming her career trajectory and paving the way for success in international finance.
Simon Danielli, Head of Investor Relations and Operations at Agathos Management LLP, credits the Queen’s MBA with helping him successfully transition from a professional rugby career to private equity, gaining the skills and mindset to lead and adapt
Michaela McCormack, Global Retail Excellence Executive at Aer Rianta International, brings over two decades of global retail expertise, leading transformation across diverse sectors and markets while shaping the future of international travel retail
For Karl Oaks, Head of Sport and Physical Wellbeing at Queen’s University Belfast, the Queen’s MBA was a catalyst for transformation, reshaping his leadership approach, expanding his perspective, and empowering him to lead with purpose.
From PhD researcher to Abundia Global Impact Group’s Head of Business Strategy & Sustainability, Sophie McComb harnessed her Queen’s MBA to drive green tech innovation, strategic partnerships, and high-impact sustainable energy initiatives.