JK Khalil | Unscripted alumni journeys
J.K. Khalil says he has found success, and happiness, throughout his career—from software engineering to consulting to fintech—by following his gut. If something didn’t feel right, he says that’s when he knew it was time for a change. On the other hand, when he felt engaged and passionate about his work, that’s when he knew he was on the right path.
“Follow your gut and your passion first, and do the best that you can. That is how you build your career in a way that’s centered on your values.”
Strategy& Middle East alum J.K. started his career as a software engineer before becoming a technology consultant and then joining a bank. After that, he worked at Strategy& in Dubai for four years, before coming to Mastercard, where he has remained for almost nine years. “I'm enjoying myself,” he says. “All of the experiences that I brought with me serve me really well today.”
In addition to finding happiness as a corporate executive, J.K. says he increasingly tries to carve out time for his other identities—as a husband, father, son, friend, mentor, cooking enthusiast, and emerging artist. He says that approaching other people holistically is an important part of how he leads as well, often considering psychology and emotions as well as more standard business metrics in his analysis. As someone who has benefitted from mentorship himself, he also says that he appreciates when people ask him for help and feedback.
“When people come asking for help, I want to help more, I appreciate that someone is coming and raising their hand, saying, ‘Please guide me.’ I think it's important for us to help each other.”
Highlights from the discussion
JK Khalil on hard work and passion
JK Khalil on personal and corporate identities
