SIMT MBA Graduate Portrait:  Ozgur Kilic

Ozgur Kilic, a native from Turkey, finished his MBA studies in Finance and Investment at SIMT in 2003. The possibility to choose an MBA concentration made the decision to come to SIMT for him a easy one. He is currently Head of Corporate Finance Functions of Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd in London.

1. What was your job/career situation as you decided to pursue an MBA?

I was a senior undergraduate student with very limited work experience when I decided to pursue an MBA. Given the difficult macroeconomic situation in Turkey at that time the MBA degree was an opportunity for me to further expand my horizon. 

2.Why did you choose SIMT?

Best element of the SIMT MBA program from my perspective is its rather unique program structure which offers its students to choose a concentration in one area. Especially for the students like me who studied business in their undergraduate degrees a plain MBA would probably be the repetition of what has been taught earlier. The 'MBA with concentration' concept was what attracted me most and influenced my decision to choose SIMT.

Moreover the master thesis requirement and internship during the study gives students the chance to apply theory to practice.  

3. How did you benefit from SIMT's close contacts to the industry?

I benefited from SIMT's close contact to the industry in three ways. First of all, I had my master thesis with one of the partner companies of SIMT which provided adequate resources throughout the project. Secondly, I had an internship opportunity from DaimlerChrysler which I declined at the end. Thirdly, I was in contact with a few supporting companies for scholarships.

4.  Was the mix of backgrounds and cultures the other students offered beneficial and if so, how?

One of the great values SIMT offered to me was the networking opportunity with people from all over the world.  I managed to continue most of my friendships from SIMT after the graduation. This helped me to share and develop aspirations and plans with regards to future career development.  

5. How has the SIMT MBA helped in the development of your career?

The primary contribution of SIMT MBA for me was to broaden my vision. Having MBA friends from all over the world gave me unique exposure to many different cultures. This helped me to adapt very easily to the international environment I have been working in after MBA.

6. What did you learn that is important for your current job (e.g. specialized knowledge, soft skills)?

My role requires me to be action oriented, results driven and flexible.  I am dealing not only with my team members but also people from other functions. Group works during my MBA furnished me with necessary negotiation and conflict resolution skills which I use on a day to day basis.

7. How would you sum up the experience of studying at the SIMT?

Challenging, fun, interesting and absolutely worth experiencing. It is an experience which I shared with some people who have never seen snow in their lives and people who didn't mind wearing just a  t-shirt when it was freezing outside.

8. Why would you recommend the SIMT to others?

SIMT offers a high quality education in a very professional environment.  Its international student base and closeness to the industry gives SIMT a competitive edge compared to other MBAs.