Hi Karim! You graduated from the MSc programme in Managing People Knowledge and Change in 2017. What have you been up to since your graduation?
"Hello! I would like to start by thanking you for reaching out and giving me the opportunity to share my experience with current and recently graduated students."
"Since graduating from the Managing People, Knowledge and Change programme, my career has focused on the Professional Services industry and digital transformation. Immediately after completing the programme, I landed a job at GLG MENA, working across their Dublin and Dubai offices. This opportunity came about during the LUSEM EEE career days, where I participated as an usher. During the event, I connected with the recruitment team, who encouraged me to apply — and I was subsequently recruited. After progressing to the role of Senior Associate, I transitioned to become Digital Transformation Lead in Lebanon at an SME, where I led a digitalization and modernization effort."
Immediately after completing the programme, I landed a job at GLG MENA, working across their Dublin and Dubai offices. This opportunity came about during the LUSEM EEE career days, where I participated as an usher.
"Due to political unrest affecting stability, I decided to relocate to Italy and continue my path in digital transformation, specializing in the banking and payments sector. Over the past five years, I’ve been collaborating with international clients to lead large-scale transformation projects. My role currently is as a Manager at EY, where I focus on delivering strategic digital initiatives within financial services."
What motivated you to pursue a master's degree in Managing People, Knowledge and Change?
"After completing my Bachelor's degree in Business Administration (BBA), I began searching for Master's programmes that focused on managing transformations. I was immediately drawn to Lund University’s Managing People, Knowledge and Change (MPKC) programme because it offered courses that aligned closely with my interests and professional goals — particularly the course “Knowledge Work and Organization”, which I found especially relevant."
What I loved about the Managing People, Knowledge and Change (MPKC) programme was the way professors encouraged us to nurture critical thinking.
"The one-year duration of the programme was also a key factor in my decision, as I was specifically looking for intensive, shorter programmes. Finally, the strong international reputation of LUSEM and Lund University, consistently ranked among top global institutions, was the decisive factor that led me to apply."
Today you work as manager in EY in Italy what does your role involve in a day to day?
"A typical day in my role starts with a series of briefing meetings — both internal and external. Internal alignment meetings are held with EY colleagues to coordinate on company-improvement initiatives and ensure everyone is aligned on priorities. External meetings are usually with clients we’re currently collaborating with, focusing on project updates, feedback, and next steps."
"After the morning briefings, we define tasks and set timelines. Work is then distributed among team members based on expertise and availability. Throughout the day, additional meetings are scheduled as needed to address ongoing topics, resolve issues, or clarify questions that arise during execution."
"The day typically concludes once the deliverables planned for that day are completed and signed off by the client — ensuring we maintain momentum and meet expectations consistently."
What advice would you give to your current students or recent graduates who are considering a career in consulting?
"My main advice to students is to be both proactive and curious. Being proactive means actively engaging in university activities such as career fairs, online webinars, and networking with recruiters. These experiences not only expand your connections in the job market but also help you stay informed about industry trends and build confidence in interacting with new people. In other words, you’re sharpening your soft skills — communication, adaptability, and relationship-building."
When combined with the courses taught at Lund University, this proactive and curious approach will help students become strong candidates in the consulting world - ready to contribute, learn, and lead.
"Equally important is being curious. We live in a world of fast-emerging trends where clients constantly seek guidance and innovation. Stay curious by keeping up with the news, exploring new topics, signing up for online courses, or even listening to podcasts that spark your interest. This mindset helps you stay ahead of the curve and develop hard skills in areas that are increasingly relevant."
"When combined with the courses taught at Lund University, this proactive and curious approach will help students become strong candidates in the consulting world - ready to contribute, learn, and lead."
What skills and knowledge form your time in the programme and at LUSEM have been the most valuable in your career and graduation?
"Critical thinking and adaptability — especially shaped by international exposure — are among the most valuable skills I gained during my time at Lund."
The diverse mix of classmates and faculty from various countries exposed me to different ways of thinking and problem-solving.
"What I loved about the Managing People, Knowledge and Change (MPKC) programme was the way professors encouraged us to nurture critical thinking. Their approach often involved presenting a book or theory from the author’s perspective, but leaving the interpretation to us. One memorable assignment asked us to build arguments against an author’s viewpoint — a powerful exercise that taught me to question assumptions and think independently. This skill has proven invaluable in my professional life, where I’m often challenged to question the status quo and develop tailored solutions for clients."
"Equally important was the development of adaptability, especially in navigating international cultures. The diverse mix of classmates and faculty from various countries exposed me to different ways of thinking and problem-solving. This experience helped me become more culturally aware and flexible, qualities that have positively impacted my ability to connect and collaborate with colleagues and clients from around the world."
What is your favourite memory from your student days in Lund?
"One of my favorite parts of student life in Lund was definitely the “sittnings”. There was something magical about those evenings: the songs, the traditions, the outfits, and the shared laughter over long dinners. It was such a fun and unique way to connect with classmates from all over the globe. I still remember how those moments made us feel part of something special, and how they turned strangers into lifelong friends. Looking back, they truly captured the spirit and warmth of the Lund student experience."
About Karim
Current position: Manager, EY
Current location: Milan
Highest degree from LUSEM: MSc in Managing People, Knowledge and Change
Graduation year: 2017