Careers in Business– The Next Step

For further information:0800 80 80 98otago.ac.nz/businesstxt 866business@otago.ac.nzfacebook.com/otago.b.school

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Where will my Otago degree take me?This is a common question if you’re considering tertiary education. We know from experience that there are countless jobs business graduates are suited to because of the specialist nature of their business education. In addition, the general skillset and knowledge Otago Business School graduates develop during their studies helps them in a broader range of career options. Our graduates are adventurous, entrepreneurial, sociable and independent thinkers, making them highly employable, and respected individuals.

The Otago Business School’s flagship qualification is the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) degree. This booklet showcases 32 different BCom graduates, and provides a small insight into the variety of roles you can aspire to should you decide to study business at the University of Otago.

Many of our graduates profiled have completed double majors (two areas of expertise within their degree), which enhances their Otago experience and equips them with more knowledge and skills to offer potential employers. Others have completed a postgraduate qualification or double degree (such as a Science or Humanities degree in addition to their BCom). For those students their employment prospects and their earning potential are usually much greater.

Some disciplines within the Business School, such as Information Science and Economics, are offered as a Business degree as well as Science or Humanities degrees. This provides you with the flexibility to focus your studies in an area that best matches your long-term career aspirations.

The Otago Business School is proud of our graduates and works very hard to ensure our qualifications, facilities and academic staff are world class. We are, however, aware that the key factor in the employment equation is YOU! We can pass on knowledge and equip you with skills for a successful career. But ultimately your motivation, drive and personality will be what not only helps you complete your degree, but helps secure that all important first graduate job. And these characteristics will continue to assist you as you progress throughout your career.

Make sure you talk to us about assistance with preparing your CV and interview skills. Take part in the additional activities available – internships (gain valuable work experience), Audacious (develop your own business), business case competitions, student groups focused on working in the community, and our student organisations including COMSA, Te Tai Tuara and AIESEC. All of these activities help you prepare for your future career, and showcase yourself to prospective employers.

I invite you to seek out further information about our business qualifications, extracurricular opportunities, and other graduate profiles via our website. I also encourage you to speak with the University’s Schools’ Liaison team when considering your study options.

Best wishes,

Professor Robin GauldDean, Otago Business School

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Practical Experience & InternshipsThere are strong links between the Otago Business School and New Zealand commercial organisations. Many courses offered within the Business School provide opportunities for you to work with businesses on specific projects. These projects can either be completed in small teams or independently. These experiences help reinforce the theory you learn in lectures and tutorials and provide opportunities for real application of the knowledge you’re gaining as part of your degree.

The Otago Business School has a formal undergraduate Internship Programme which is offered as part of your degree, meaning you gain paid practical experience and credit towards your BCom. An internship prepares you for and gives you hands-on experience, a taste of life in industry, and the opportunity to confirm a career path. The internship experiences have assisted our interns to secure their first full-time job.

Find out more: otago.ac.nz/business/studentactivities/internships.

Graduate RecruitmentEach year local, national and international organisations from various sectors visit the University of Otago to talk about what they do and the opportunities they have to offer fresh graduates. Many Otago graduates have started their careers through graduate recruitment programmes and have found the experience highly beneficial and an invaluable entry into their respective industries. Organisations that visit campus specifically seeking Otago Business students include:

• Accor Hotel Group • Anderson Lloyd

• ANZ • ASB

• Audit New Zealand • BDO

• Bloomberg • BNZ

• Boston Consulting Group • Crowe Howarth

• Datacom • DB Breweries

• Deloitte • Deutsche Craigs

• Disney International • EY (Ernst & Young)

• First NZ Capital • Fonterra

• Forsyth Barr • Fulton Hogan

• Goldman Sachs • Intergen

• KPMG • Lion Nathan

• L’Oréal • Mainfreight

• Polson Higgs • PwC (Price Waterhouse Cooper)

• Staples Rodway • The Reserve Bank

• Toyota • The Treasury

• Unilever • Westpac

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PROFILE KEY

ACCOUNTING pages 4-7

ECONOMICS pages 8-11

FINANCE pages 12-15

INFORMATION SCIENCE pages 16-19

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS pages 20-23

MARKETING pages 24-27

MANAGEMENT pages 28-31

TOURISM pages 32-35

Career Development CentreThe University of Otago has a dedicated team of staff based at the Career Development Centre who offer one-to-one career counselling, careers information and career development seminars and workshops including preparing CVs and cover letters, interview skills and effective job searches.

Other resources available are:

UniCrew – Opportunities to volunteer

GoinGlobal – Information and advice on overseas employment

InterviewStream – Practice questions, plus webinars

Career Development Centre on Facebook – Helpful tips, plus events listings facebook.com/otagocareerdevelopmentcentre

OtagoCareerHub – Graduate recruitment, internships, job vacancy listings, and employer presentations

Find out more: otago.ac.nz/careers

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“ As an Investigator with Inland Revenue I use a broad range of skills, knowledge and expertise, including analysing financial information, to detect and address risk across a broad range of customers. This includes individuals, large enterprises and those involved in illegal activities such as fraud, tax evasion and the hidden economy.

“ While I predominantly focus on risk-based audits, I also work with other Investigators and business units on proactive projects, including educating businesses on their tax obligations and requirements.

“ This helps encourage Inland Revenue’s customers to comply with New Zealand’s tax laws.

“ What I enjoy most about my job is the variety, work culture and people I work with. With a great work-life balance, professional development and in-house training, I am able to grow both as an Investigator and tax specialist.”

Jimmy Ling

Jimmy Ling | Investigator | Inland Revenue

BCom (Accounting & Economics)

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“ AML Solutions provide a full range of Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) services. As a consultant my time is split between undertaking consulting and auditing activities.

“ On the consulting side I’m involved with the drafting of compliance documentation for entities required to comply with AML/CFT legislation. These documents are aimed at helping to prevent, detect and deter money laundering and the financing of terrorism.

“ On the audit side, I visit client premises and conduct their statutory audit which is required every two years. Our clients range from international banks, listed companies, and casinos, to one-man money remitters.

“ This means I get to see and learn about a wide range of industries which brings something new every week. Getting to visit client premises around Auckland, and within New Zealand brings great variety to my days.”

Hannah Clancy

Hannah Clancy | Consultant | Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Solutions

BCom (Accounting) & LLB (Law)

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“ Transitioning from university to industry requires the development of analytical skills and critical thinking. Auditing with Deloitte gives me a great platform to learn by exposing me to a diverse range of clients including district councils, publicly listed entities, and private firms.

“ A typical audit begins with intimately understanding the client’s core operations through discussion with the client and the identification of financial trends. This helps the audit team identify the key risk areas that we need to address.

“ In any given day, I will develop models of expected financial relationships, assess if provisions and estimates are reasonable, or review compliance with internal policies and external standards, all while working within a bright and energetic team.

“ The variety of work, clients, team mates and location means I never get bored.”

Joseph Vuli

Joseph Vuli | Accountant – Audit | Deloitte

BCom (Accounting) & BA (French)

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“ I have always wanted to work with numbers and this led to my BCom at Otago, majoring in Accounting and Economics. Following this I completed the requirements and became a Chartered Accountant and member of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.

“ I specialise in “tax” and my tax career has taken me from working on sole traders to very large entities with over a billion dollars in turnover. My day-to-day work can range from working on compliance matters for clients to restructures and tax planning.

“ Working in tax means that you get to be an Accountant but with the added bonus of complexity and variety of work.

“ At Polson Higgs I feel that I get a good variety of work, a chance to keep up-to-date with the constantly changing tax laws, and also a good work-life balance.”

Punsara Sommerville

Punsara Sommerville | Assistant Tax Manager | Polson Higgs

BCom (Accounting & Economics) & DipGrad, CA

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“ I work for the Minister of Finance as an economic advisor. My job is to give him advice about the decisions he is making, who he should meet with, and what information he should ask for. I work from the Beehive, acting as a bridge between the Minister and the Government departments that send him reports and advice.

“ The Minister is in charge of the Government’s annual budget process, and I help collect and assess the bids for new government spending.

“ The Minister also has an interest in policies all across Government, so I get to work on a lot of different things – on any given day I might be involved in issues around health, welfare, justice, and housing for instance.

“ One of the best things about my job is seeing an idea someone has in a meeting become a real policy that’s announced by the Government, and the positive impact it has on people’s lives.”

David Kidson

David Kidson | Economic Advisor | Office of the Minister of Finance

BCom (Hons) (Economics)

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“ Motu Economic and Public Policy Research is an independent, non-profit institute producing non-partisan research in areas such as climate change, productivity, and human rights. In my current project, I’m using survey data to analyse how people decide where to live, and the role of well-being in their decision.

“ My role involves a lot of independence, but I do have the guidance of an experienced senior researcher. I get to participate in all stages of a project, from exploring the data to presenting the results for publishing.

“ Our workplace is a learning environment. I am surrounded by some of New Zealand’s top economists and a team of bright young graduates. All Motu research analysts are provided with time and encouragement to develop our skills beyond the scope of the projects we are working on.”

Kate Preston

Kate Preston | Research Analyst | Motu Economic & Public Policy Research

BCom (Economics & International Business) & BCom (Hons) (Economics)

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“ Kea is NZ’s borderless nation – a global network of Kiwis and friends of NZ from all over the world. Its aim is to drive high-impact global connections that benefit NZ whilst celebrating NZ’s game-changers, world leaders and the people helping our country succeed.

“ As the Global Relationship Manager I’m responsible for growing and engaging the network. Part of this involves working with businesses to understand their needs and international plans so I can introduce them to network members who can help.

“ The benefit of working in a small global organisation is that I get to be involved in almost all the business areas, as well as have the opportunity to travel. These range from the communications we send out to the network, to organising inspiring and/or market insights events here and overseas.

“ What I love most about my job is the daily interactions with incredible Kiwis, and knowing that I’m helping expats stay connected to home and give back.”

Anna Fitzgerald

Anna Fitzgerald | Global Relationship Manager | Kea

BCom (Economics), BA (Politics) & DipLang (French)

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“ While studying I didn’t expect I would end up creating a number of the statistics that are the key to monitoring New Zealand’s economy, but that’s what I do at Statistics New Zealand.

“ At Stats I work in the National Accounts unit. We are responsible for producing the National Accounts of New Zealand, with the most high profile part of the accounts being quarterly GDP. Working at Stats has extended my knowledge of economic theory, and my understanding of the New Zealand economy.

“ My average day is a combination of data wrangling and analysis, with most of my time spent working in Excel and SAS. They say it takes 10 years to be a “real National Accountant”, and after two years I would agree, there is plenty to learn which keeps the job interesting.”

Tom Brown

Tom Brown | Statistical Analyst | Statistics New Zealand

BCom (Economics & Finance) & BSc (Ecology)

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“ The Government Chief Information Officer, operating out of the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), has a mandate of setting visions, strategies and leading ICT transformation across government departments.

“ I directly support his team with financial strategies and advice to lead the development and implementation of ICT Common Capabilities across government. This means I work across branches within DIA and with external departments and agencies.

“ One of my main tasks is working with The Treasury to agree, develop and maintain ongoing funding models to enable the development of the strategy, action plan and take-up of Common Capabilities across government.

“ I facilitate and participate in government processes such as budgeting, cross-agency funding, and business cases. I also support large complex multi-million dollar ICT and transformational projects, and am now a trusted finance advisor to the business units within the department.”

Tammy Samuel

Tammy Samuel | Senior Advisor AoG | Department of Internal Affairs

BCom (Finance) & MBus (Finance)

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“ I work for Craigs Investment Partners, which shares a strategic alliance with the tier one global Investment Banking firm, Deutsche Bank.

“ My role is focused on providing investment recommendations to some of New Zealand’s largest fund management teams and other investment professionals. The companies I analyse are all NZX listed companies in the agriculture, telecommunications, property and gaming sectors.

“ On a day-to-day basis the work is varied and could see me publishing research reports, building financial models, meeting with large corporate institutions’ management teams, presenting to institutional clients, and keeping up to date with industry trends and financial market news.

“The role sees me working in a supportive, fast-paced and dynamic environment, where I’m encouraged to grow both professionally and personally.”

Luke Mills

Luke Mills | Equity Research Associate | Craigs Investment Partners

BCom (Finance), Minor (Economics) & MBus (Finance)

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“ My role at FNZC involves providing ideas and advice to clients on the structuring and execution of transactions such as debt and equity issuances, mergers, acquisitions and divestments, as well as general corporate advice on issues such as valuation and capital structure.

“ I work with some of New Zealand’s largest corporate and financial institutions, as well as many overseas institutions. Consequently, I’ve had exposure to high quality clients and transactions from day one.

“ The work is fast-paced, dynamic and extremely varied. Day-to-day responsibilities include valuation analysis, preparation of marketing materials, attending client meetings, and keeping abreast of industry and market news.

“ Highlights for me so far have included working on the IPO of growing multinational pharmaceutical company AFT Pharmaceuticals, and advising Air New Zealand on the sale of its cornerstone shareholding in Virgin Australia.”

Laura Manson

Laura Manson | Analyst, Investment Banking | First NZ Capital (FNZC)

BCom (Finance) & LLB (Hons) (Law)

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“ I work for Westpac Financial Markets in the Dealing Room where my role is to help customers manage foreign exchange and interest rate risk. Customers range from high net worth individuals to businesses involved in import/export activities.

“ On a daily basis I assist with high value foreign exchange transactions which involve buying and selling a wide range of currencies such as the Australian Dollar, US Dollar and Chinese Renminbi. I also help customers manage the risk associated with large levels of debt.

“ I keep customers informed of global economic and political events that could impact their market exposures, and educate them on the different tools available to manage risk – including derivatives such as forward exchange contracts and options.

“ The role is challenging and fast-paced and you have to adapt quickly to constantly changing market conditions. The dealing room has a collaborative culture with lots of opportunities to learn and grow personally.”

David Goddard

David Goddard | Associate – NZ Financial Markets | Westpac

BCom (Finance), Minors (Economics & Spanish)

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“ As a Commercial Analyst at Lion I utilise software that helps assess corporate risk, improve efficiencies, highlight important data sets, and identify future business opportunities.

“ I specifically look at how to grow the demand and sales for products like Speight’s, Steinlager, and Mac’s in locations such as hotels, pubs, entertainment venues, and restaurants – places where our products are consumed where they are bought.

“ I work closely with our On-Premise Sales Team, providing financial data and insights that they use to prepare sales contracts, and determine the level and frequency of on-premise promotions. I also examine how we can invest in our on-premise partners to drive mutual business success.

“ Because I support the On-Premise Sales Team a perk of my role is getting to go to bar or restaurant opening nights, or getting tickets to special events.”

Cloe Terry

Cloe Terry | Commercial Analyst – On-Premise | Lion

BCom (Information Science), Minor (Management)

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“ Working for a local software start-up like Digital Transformation that offers cloud-based enterprise solutions is equally as exciting as it is rewarding. Being part of a cutting-edge tech business from its inception is a huge opportunity, especially for those new to the software industry.

“ As a software developer I analyse business problems and solve them with digital solutions. I develop using the Microsoft stack with client-side languages like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.

“ One day I’ll be automating complex business processes, and the next I’ll be working alongside a designer to implement their vision for a new user interface.

“ The industry is notoriously fast paced, you have to constantly upskill to keep ahead of the curve – which keeps you on your toes and ensures that no two projects are ever the same.”

Tristan Dashwood

Tristan Dashwood | Software Developer | Digital Transformation

BCom (Information Science)

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“ At ADInstruments, our vision is to create the best tools for advancing science research and education. We serve over 10,000 organisations globally, including the top 100 Universities.

“ Our company reputation is built on quality and reliability. My role in the User Experience team is to provide quality assurance for our software projects. Attention to detail is critical, as researchers and educators expect a high level of data integrity, ease of use and flexibility in our software solutions.

“ Being part of an agile team means on any given day I might; collaborate with developers to find and fix software bugs, write JavaScript automated tests, or lead a team designing new features.

“ I am constantly developing new skills and building on what I learnt at Otago. My job has already taken me on customer visits, to conferences, and a trip to our office in Colorado, USA.”

Sam Payton

Sam Payton | Software Tester | ADInstruments

BCom (Information Science)

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“ Datacom is one of Australasia’s leading IT service providers. As a Business Analyst in the Digital Identity Solutions team I help organisations to manage their staff and customers’ identities. This covers the management of how people in organisations are identified (authentication) and what they have access to (authorisation).

“ I also liaise with clients to determine their business needs, and how Datacom can add value to their business through IT solutions.

“ Some clients require identity and security solutions, whereas others may need system upgrades, rebuilds, or cloud storage facilities.

“ I’m currently helping to make the RealMe service more mobile responsive. Future work includes simplifying how users obtain a verified identity so they can apply for things like a bank account online without having to visit a branch and show identification.

“ My work is team-oriented, fast-paced and diverse – there’s never a dull day in the office.”

Brittany Wong

Brittany Wong | Business Analyst | Datacom

BCom (Information Science & Marketing)

20

“ I’ve always had a keen interest in international affairs and am now forging a career in diplomacy with the Samoan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Apia.

“ In my role I have considerable contact and involvement with international organisations operating in Samoa and use my Spanish language abilities to converse with visiting diplomats from South America.

“ I’m also Desk Officer for the United Nations branches accredited to Samoa, including United Nations Development Programme

(UNDP), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

“ Other responsibilities include arranging logistics for visiting foreign government dignitaries and Ambassadors/High Commissioners, plus I liaise with other relevant government agencies in organisations in the financial sector.

“ A career in diplomacy is a great way to represent your country.”

Robert Aiono

Robert Aiono | Foreign Service Officer | Samoan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade

BCom (International Business)

21

“ After a night out in Shanghai, my soon-to-be business partner and I found ourselves craving our favourite comfort food – authentic Kiwi meat pies! Sadly, in 2013 you couldn’t buy them in China, so we started making our own.

“ Six months later we quit our day jobs to take our pies to the next level. We found a high-quality food factory in Shanghai and focused on sales, marketing and promotion.

“ Today, 10,000 ‘Tuck Shop Pies’ are sold each month in 250 supermarkets, hotels and restaurants throughout China!

“ I continue to develop and test new pie flavours, source premium New Zealand beef and dairy, comply with Chinese food regulations, oversee quality control, develop marketing strategies and supermarket promotions, and grow our customer base.

“ Our mission is to further enhance the popularity of Kiwi food culture in China through quality and authenticity.”

Olivia Fowler

Olivia Fowler | Owner & Co-founder | Tuck Shop Pies

BCom (International Business & Marketing)

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“ I work in the Scrip and Settlements department at Forsyth Barr, one of New Zealand’s leading investment firms. I’m responsible for Overseas Scrip, which encompasses all of our foreign trading markets other than Australia.

“ On a day to day basis this involves settling foreign trades and payments, reconciling stock and cash movements, providing support to our equity traders, and liaising with our offshore brokers in London, the USA, Canada and Hong Kong.

“ Since starting at Forsyth Barr I have been able to broaden my skills base by learning different positions, including Corporate Actions, Dividends and Australian Scrip.

“ One of the things I enjoy most about my job is the exposure I get to overseas markets, and I frequently draw on my knowledge of international finance and economics gained during my International Business degree.”

Fiona Woodfield | Overseas Adminstrator | Forsyth Barr

Fiona WoodfieldBCom (International Business & Economics), Minor (Spanish)

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“ At New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE) we grow Kiwi companies internationally – bigger, better, faster – for the benefit of New Zealand. I’m passionate about New Zealand, entrepreneurship and exploring new cultures so it’s a great spot to be. My team consults Kiwi companies who are looking to enter or grow in international markets. I work collaboratively with our global offices to provide actionable market intelligence to our customers.

“ The sheer diversity of my role is exhilarating. One day I may be helping a luxury fashion brand hit the Japanese market, the next be involved in kick-starting a small technology firm’s journey in Silicon Valley. Getting your hands dirty in-market is also encouraged – I recently spent three weeks at the New Zealand High Commission in Delhi organising a renewable energy mission.”

Nic Peat

Nic Peat | Research Specialist | New Zealand Trade & Enterprise (NZTE)

BCom (Marketing) & MBus (International Business)

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“ Personnel Placements Ltd is a recruitment firm that links job seekers and employers. As a Recruitment Consultant I provide comprehensive temporary and permanent staffing solutions.

“ I work mainly in the industrial service sector in areas such as manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture. I liaise closely with client companies and build relationships with them in order to gain a better understanding of their recruitment needs, and operational requirements.

“ I then seek candidates that fit the client’s requirements. I assess someone’s suitability for a role by looking at things such as their specific skill set, experience, qualifications, availability, and salary expectations.

“ I’ve had the opportunity to attend exclusive tours of factories, processing plants, crop fields and the Timaru Port, gaining insight into what certain roles require. Every day is so very different and I’ve met so many interesting and knowledgeable people.”

Natasha Muller

Natasha Muller | Recruitment Consultant | Personnel Placements Ltd

BCom (Management) & DipGrad (Marketing)

25

“ I always wanted a career where I could feel excited and proud about what I did each day, and I feel very fortunate to have found that at International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ). We help people to travel and volunteer on community projects around the world, and it’s my job to make sure they can do so safely and responsibly.

“ This involves working with a network of organisations in more than 30 countries to assess global risks, and determine

how volunteers can be best organised to support community needs.

“ My job is challenging but I get a lot of satisfaction knowing that IVHQ makes a big difference to the lives of thousands of people every year. Working for a company where jandals and a t-shirt are considered appropriate office-wear also helps!”

Ben Brown

Ben Brown | Head of Risk and Sustainability | International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

BCom (Management) & MBus (Management)

26

“ I work as an Immigration Officer in Wellington processing visitor and work visa applications. I’m responsible for assessing each application against New Zealand immigration law, and for producing timely quality decisions on each case.

“ On a day-to-day basis this means interacting with a range of individuals across every possible nationality, all of whom have a desire to experience New Zealand first-hand.

“ Immigration New Zealand’s goals include supporting economic growth and

strengthening our ties with other parts of the world. I help support this goal by approving visa applications from people who will help give New Zealand a highly skilled workforce, or that help target high value industries.

“ In relation to this my Management degree, which focused on employment relations and law, is especially useful in understanding the New Zealand economic and business market, and the legal requirements surrounding employment contracts.”

Jennifer Gale

Jennifer Gale | Immigration Officer | Immigration New Zealand

BCom (Management) & PGDipTour (Tourism)

27

“ Unilever is a global leader in the consumer goods industry and my role sits within the Unilever NZ Supply Chain team as a Demand Planner.

“ My core role is to maintain and establish a quality forecast for our different products across the Total Foods and Refreshments categories, including brands such as Streets Ice Cream, Continental Cup o’ Soup and Lipton Iced Tea.

“ Essentially this means I manage the overall demand for a product to ensure that the correct quantity is produced and is then available in our warehouses for supply to our customers. For this to occur seamlessly I have built great cross-functional relationships with my key stakeholders across the business through the Supply Chain, Category and Sales teams.”

Seamus Tyler-Baxter

Seamus Tyler-Baxter | Demand Planner | Unilever

BCom (Management) & MBus (Management)

28

“ I’ve had a long-standing obsession with the mountains and snowboarding, so I’m very lucky to go to work every day at Cardrona Alpine Resort and promote what is already a strong passion of mine.

“ My role as Cardrona’s Marketing Coordinator is very diverse which means no two days are the same. Activities I’m involved with include product and promotion management, social media campaign management, developing sponsorship and wholesaler relationships,

market research, copywriting, website analysis and development, creative briefings, photography shoots, producing marketing collateral, attending sales meetings, budget analysis, hosting media, attending trade expos…the list goes on!

“ Amongst all of that good stuff, my office is up the mountain during winter which means I can go ‘product testing’ on my snowboard from time to time…..I’m stoked to say the least!”

Matt McIvor

Matt McIvor | Marketing Coordinator | Cardrona Alpine Resort

BCom (Marketing & Management)

29

“ Working for a company like Beaurepaires that is 100% Kiwi owned and operated is really rewarding. It took me a couple of months to understand the complexities of the tyre industry, but I love how every day brings a different marketing challenge and opportunity for success.

“ As the Marketing Assistant I provide support to the entire Beaurepaires’ marketing team. This means I’m exposed to all aspects of the company’s marketing activities.

“ On Monday I could be helping with our social media posts, or working with our suppliers on a new local area marketing initiative, or maybe even going into one of our branches and taking pictures of a store manager to be used for promotional collateral.

“ By Friday I might be analysing our promotional stock inventory, helping to organise our national account database, monitoring sponsorship requests, or liaising with our stores throughout New Zealand.”

Komal Achari

Komal Achari | Marketing Assistant | Beaurepaires

BCom (Marketing & Management)

30

“ Famous Pacific Shipping is an international logistics company that helps its clients import raw materials and market leading finished products, plus export their Kiwi innovations.

“ I actively qualify leads, prospect new markets and develop products and services for our clients. I assess my clients’ shipping requirements and tailor solutions to reduce transit times, provide cost transparency, and strive to deliver their cargo on time.

“ I need to know about different border control regulations and how different markets operate. I’ve travelled to Hong Kong and Europe to meet with foreign exporters so I can find new ways to expedite cargo, and add true value to my New Zealand-based clients’ operations.

“Coming up with an innovative shipping solution is thrilling – especially when you see the results in the market place. I love being able to say: ‘That’s my customer – I imported that!’.”

Manesh Malani

Manesh Malani | Business Development Manager | Famous Pacific Shipping New Zealand

BCom (Marketing & Management)

31

“ No two days are the same working as a Product Manager at L’Oréal New Zealand. So far I’ve worked on three different brands across the hair and cosmetics industries: L’Oréal Paris, L’Oréal Professionnel and Pureology.

“ The beauty of working in marketing for a multi-national is that you get to experience all facets of the business, be part of a strong international network, yet run local campaigns utilising local connections.  From day one I inherited a significant amount of

responsibility, and each morning brings a new experience and new challenge.

“ I’ve been involved in promotional and launch management, supply chain and forecasting, merchandising, digital and media strategy, sponsorship and brand alignments, public relations, sales and budget analysis. Highlights have been organising fashion shows/photoshoots and working with local brand partners/charities such as Trelise Cooper and Sustainable Coastlines.”

Kristin Borley

Kristin Borley | Product Manager | L’Oréal New Zealand

BCom (Hons) (Marketing)

32

“ Working in event management is like working in a completely different world. It’s fast paced, exciting and no two days are the same. I need to ensure I stay one step ahead focussing on the bigger picture because every event requires careful planning to ensure we meet the needs of our clients.

“ The skills I use on a day-to-day basis are easily applied to any job within the tourism industry, securing my future in the sector.

“ The hours of planning, liaising with the clients and co-ordinating with our staff and suppliers pays off when the guests walk into the venue. Nothing is better than knowing that we helped make their event one to remember.”

Jared Anglesey

Jared Anglesey | Functions Supervisor | University of Otago Union

BCom (Tourism)

33

“ AccorHotels has approximately 4100 hotels across 95 countries. The Sofitel Wellington is the first luxury hotel to be opened in Wellington in over 15 years, and attracts customers seeking personalised high-end hospitality.”

“ As Assistant Manager I look after the operational side of the business – I’m essentially a quick thinking problem solver. I work to ensure any customer request or concern has a positive outcome.

“ This means engaging my staff to ensure customers’ needs are not only met, but we’ve exceeded their expectations.

“ One minute I might upgrade someone’s room, or relay special dietary requirements to our in-house restaurant, and later I might organise last minute concert tickets for a valued customer.

“ I love engaging with travellers from all over the world, and AccorHotels’ vast global network means my career and travel opportunities are virtually endless!”

Joshua Fan

Joshua Fan | Assistant Manager | Sofitel Wellington

BDentTech (Dental Technology) & DipGrad (Tourism)

34

“ JUCY’s one of the fastest growing tourism brands in the business, and I scored my dream job as their Head of Marketing.

“ I love JUCY because it’s so fast-paced and diverse. We have cars, campers or motorhomes in Australia, NZ and the US, a cruise business in Milford Sound and JUCY Snooze – New Zealand’s first capsule-style accommodation. It’s also a business that puts our brand first – which is a very exciting place to be as a marketer. We really are painting the world green and purple!

“ I’ve come to JUCY after working for Tourism NZ in London and Winter Festival in Queenstown. This is definitely my most challenging and diverse role to date. I manage a team of passionate designers and marketers who work hard to ensure the JUCY brand is alive and consistent across all of our communications channels and locations.”

Katy Medlock

Katy Medlock | Head of Marketing | JUCY Group Limited

BCom (Tourism & Marketing) & BA (European Studies)

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“ Studying Tourism gave me the tools to work within both the heritage and museum sectors. I currently work as a Visitor Host for Heritage New Zealand at one of their key destination sites, Hayes Engineering and Homestead in Oturehua, Central Otago.

“ This role has great variety, and on any given day I could be busy with collection care, working with school groups, researching history or collection items, or engaged in communicating the story of our agricultural heritage to visitors.

“ The skills I learnt through my studies have helped me with interpretation, communication and developing appropriate visitor experiences.

“ Prior to my move into Central Otago, I was the Tourism and Venues Manager at the Otago Museum and was able to draw on the business skills learnt through my degree. The best thing I’ve found working in tourism is that no two days are the same and you get to interact with the most diverse and amazing people.”

Jess Ralfe

Jess Ralfe | Visitor Host | Heritage New Zealand

BCom (Tourism) & BA (Design Studies), Minor (Politics)

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Which business major would suit me?To study business at Otago you don’t need to have previously studied a business subject at high school, although English and Statistics are recommended. We’ve identified some personal attributes that might help you decide which BCom major might suit your personality and academic strengths.

Accounting• Good mathematical and numeracy skills• Able to keep information confidential• Honest, with an eye for detail• Methodical, logical and able to make

sound judgements• Works well under pressure to meet

deadlines• Strong analytical and problem-solving

skills• Excellent communication and people skills• Enjoys being part of a team

Economics• Good mathematical and numeracy skills• Interested in human behaviour• Good research and problem-solving

skills• Demonstrates decision-making ability• Excellent communication and people skills• Thinks logically, laterally and is creative• Interested in people and society• Highly developed analytical skills

Finance• Good mathematical and numeracy skills

(statistics and calculus)• Calculated risk taker• Good research and problem-solving

skills• Demonstrates decision-making abilities• Accurate and patient• Able to make good judgements, and

adapt quickly to change• Works well under pressure to meet

deadlines• Excellent communication and people skills

Information Science• Interested in technology• Project orientated• Interested in computer programming• Creative and inventive• Likes gadgets and new challenges• Good research and problem-solving

skills• Practical thinker• Excellent communication and people skills

International Business• Interested in other cultures and

knowledge of global events• Interested in foreign affairs and trade• Willingness or ability to learn a language• A potential spokesperson• Entrepreneurial flair – business minded• Excellent communication and people skills• Friendly and outgoing, yet competitive• Good mathematical and numeracy skills

Management/Human ResourceManagement• Ability to motivate and inspire others• Enjoys being part of a team• Good research and problem-solving

skills• Diplomatic and persuasive• Ability to analyse and interpret data• Able to think strategically• Excellent communication and people skills• Able to make good judgements, and

adapt quickly to change

Marketing• Good problem-solving skills• Artistic and creative• Enquiring and analytical• Understands people, behaviour and

different cultures• Ability to interpret qualitative and

quantitative data• Good research and evaluation skills• Effective planning and time

management skills• Excellent communication and people skills

Tourism and Hospitality• Friendly, patient, helpful and outgoing• Adaptable and resourceful• Relates well to people from different

cultures and backgrounds • Awareness of NZ culture, history, and

geography• Good leadership skills• Good research and evaluation skills• Effective planning and time

management skills• Excellent communication and people skills

AcknowledgementsThe Otago Business School sincerely thanks all graduates featured in this booklet. Without your assistance this publication would not have been possible. We hope the insights into what you do on a daily basis have inspired others to pursue a career in business. We wish you all the very best with the next steps in your careers. Stay in touch!

We would also like to recommend the photographers who helped complete this project.

Alexandra / Central OtagoEric SchusserTel: 021 120 4724Email: ericschusser@gmail.comWeb: ericschusser.com

Apia, SamoaTony CallaghanTel: +685 723 9200Email: thesamoanphotographer@gmail.comWeb: thesamoanphotographer.com

AucklandLarnie NicolsonTel: 021 722 886Email: larnie@larnienicolson.comWeb: larnienicolson.com

DunedinAdam BinnsTel: 021 121 4611Email: adam@adambinns.comWeb: adambinns.com

Graham WarmanTel: 027 441 8027Email: photography@grahamwarman.comWeb: grahamwarman.co.nz

HamiltonMark Hamilton Tel: 027 355 7778Email: mark@mhp.net.nzWeb: markhamilton.nz

New York, USAEmily Hlavac GreenTel: +1 929 233 5173Email: emily@emilyhlavacgreen.comWeb: emilyhlavacgreen.com

Shanghai, China刘威 (Chocolate) Tel: +86 139 1805 4946Email: chocolatesight@qq.comWeb: photo.weibo.com/1446169597/albums

TimaruChris StanleyTel: 021 0287 0914Email: chris@focusphotography.nzWeb: csphotography.co.nz

WellingtonDavid HamiltonTel: 021 328 431Email: david@photonz.co.nzWeb: davidhamiltonphotography.co.nz

Careers in Business– The Next Step

For further information:0800 80 80 98otago.ac.nz/businesstxt 866business@otago.ac.nzfacebook.com/otago.b.school

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